Team Mizara Volleyblog: Motivational Talks for Me and the Students

One of my favourite things about coming home - besides a comfortable bed, my friends and family, and any food I want - is having the opportunity to present my journey and lessons on success to Toronto-area schools. I am sent out to the schools by the Esteem Team - a National Not-for-profit organization who's mandate is to inspire youth. They select various world-class athletes to be part of their program. I have been fortunate to be with them since I first played on the indoor national team in 2001.

This week I was in 3 Toronto schools talking about the power of a positive attitude, goal setting and perseverance. I incorporate many of my sport and life stories, and some fun exercises as well, into the 45min-1hr talk with the goal of teaching these students thru real-life experiences how they too can find success in their life. However, at the end I often myself to be more inspired by the genuine questions, stories and enthusiasm from the kids.

Now, I let the schools know this week that I would announce the 'Best Listening Schools' of the week (based on keeping quiet when other people are talking and quieting down the fastest when I raised my hand for silence). The top schools can be found in the right sidebar. Congrats to all schools who were very courtious and outstanding listeners.