Servite Basketball Coach John Morris ’01 has been selected a regional winner of the 2021 Double-Goal Coach Award presented by the Positive Coaching Alliance.
The Positive Coaching Alliance believes coaches should not be measured only by what ends up on the scoreboard. And while winning is important, it is more important that coaches teach life lessons through sports. PCA considers a coach that focuses on both outcomes a ‘Double-Goal Coach®’.
Recognition in 2021 was especially significant because of the impact coaches had on their student-athletes in a time when it is needed most.
Coach Morris holds his players accountable and encourages them to strive for greatness in all elements of their high school experience. He pushes his student-athletes to be their best not only on the court but also in the classroom and with their teammates. Practices are tough and structured with a focus on attention to detail. He holds his players to a high standard in practice so that they are prepared and able to play free during games.
Off the court, he focuses on academics and team-building to further build self-mastery. Grade checks are done bi-monthly to ensure that students are focused on balancing academics and athletics. In addition, the team reads leadership books together to further develop their understanding of their personal skills and how that relates to being a successful team. This past year, Coach Morris has also implemented team discussions and brought in guest speakers focused on creating a safe space for discussion on social injustice. As a diverse group of young men living in our current climate, he has provided an opportunity for continuous learning and growth.
Beyond that, Coach Morris creates chances for emotional development through community service and leadership opportunities. For years the team worked with the Yorba Linda Challenger Division volunteering every Saturday during basketball season playing with and teaching students with special needs basketball skills. More recently, they volunteered with Operation Christmas Child working at the local distribution center to pack boxes to send to children and spread holiday joy.
Congratulations to Coach Morris on this special recognition!
