Finding success

More accolades for local tennis player! Freshman, Nate Bonetto, who plays D1 tennis for the Florida Gators received high honors last week, voted SEC Freshman of the week. A first for Nate, early in his collegiate career, I have no doubt it won’t be his last.

Young athletes often ask me how a kid from Bend, Oregon can make this huge leap to the NCAA powerhouse, Gators, who are reigning National Champions. The answer is not simple. Typically, I let them try and answer the question first. Most believe it’s because Nate must be an uber athlete and talented beyond comprehension. They are not really thinking about all the steps and work it takes to get to the destination. True, Nate is very talented but this alone will not land you a D1 scholarship for the number 1 team in the Country.

I’ve been fortunate to support Nate with his training for a handful of years. Mindset played and still plays a significant role in his development. From Day 1 Nate trusted the process and was mindful about his support team (the wedge). The team around Nate, most importantly, his family always believed in his goal to play collegiate tennis. The remainder of the team helped Nate keep pace with his development in a coordinated effort to help him reach his goal. The rest was really up to Nate. This is where mindset plays a big role in identifying and ultimately achieving goals. Nates effort, in every area, was outstanding. His execution was spot on. His focus on what was right in front of him was pure. His trust in the process and himself grew. His expectations became reality. As conditions changed and progressed, his standards remained the same.

I’m certain we will see much more from Nate!

Young athletes who want to take the next step, please know it takes more then just talent. Find joy in your sport, identify goals and build your wedge. Have fun and put in the work!