He graduated from the University of Missouri with a year of eligibility left so he went on to the University of Memphis to complete another degree and use his remaining eligibility. I remember Robert calling me for advice on how to be the best leader he could be while he was at the University of Memphis.

After his college career he had the chance to go to the NFL and played three seasons as a professional football player. His desire and eagerness to learn mixed with his competitive nature and work ethic gave him a chance to play at the highest level.

In this week’s podcast, Coach Steeples talks about the importance of mental conditioning. He tells stories about how, as a high school coach and teacher, he uses mental conditioning to help make his athletes more mentally resilient. The advice that he is giving high school teachers and coaches comes from his own experience as an athlete and as a developer of young people. As I look back on his career I can see the making of a young coach. Even more, I can see the makings of a leader of young people.

Coach Steeples can be found on Twitter @SteepDiesel.