Coach Wooden is considered the best College Basketball Coach of all time.  He is credited with 10 NCAA National Championships in 12 years!  He was born October 14, 1910 and was the first person to ever be in the Basketball Hall of Fame as a player AND as a coach!  February 29th is recognized as John Wooden Day at UCLA.

His coaching philosophy can be carried into every sport or facet of life.  His numerous quotes are compelling and can teach us so much if we chose to listen, learn, and apply his words.  Coach Wooden has enlightened and inspired people through his actions and words of wisdom for many years.

Failure to Prepare is Preparing to Fail

A Man May Make Mistakes, But He Isn't A Failure Until He Starts Blaming Someone Else

It Is Amazing How Much Can Be Accomplished If No One Cares Who Gets The Credit

Don't Mistake Activity For Achievement

Be More Concerned With Your Character Than Your Reputation. Your Character Is What You Really Are, While Reputation Is Merely What Others Think You Are

Intensity Makes You Stronger.  Emotionalism Makes You Weaker

If You Don't Have Time To Do It Right, When Will You Have Time To Do It Over

Here at Karate America we weave Coach Wooden's philosophy into our curriculum.  We talk about his Pyramid Of Success. We use this in our Leadership classes and our black belt candidates are expected to read/learn more about Coach Wooden and write a report.

In October 2008 our Black Belt Candidates were asked to give us their favorite Coach Wooden quote and tell us what it means to them.  Our 1st Degree Black Belt Class of November 15, 2008 share with us their thoughts on how Coach Wooden has impressed them and touched their lives (especially in these last few months of preparing and training for their Black Belts).