Former Coach's Tough Love Lessons Stick With Player

Mark Glende reflects on the old-school discipline and motivational tactics of his high school basketball coach.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 12:39pm

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Mark Glende shares memories of his high school basketball coach, who used unorthodox methods like endless running drills and constant criticism to push his players. Despite the coach's madman tendencies, Glende credits him with instilling valuable life lessons about perseverance, breaking big goals into small steps, and not quitting when things get tough.

Why it matters

Glende's story highlights how tough-love coaching styles, while controversial, can sometimes impart meaningful life lessons that stay with athletes long after their playing days are over. It also touches on the role of mentors and authority figures in shaping young people's mindsets and work ethic.

The details

Glende describes his coach as alternating between "a motivational genius or a certified madman," using old-school discipline tactics like endless running drills with no set time or distance. The coach would single out individual players for extra scrutiny, questioning their decision-making and effort. But amid the yelling and exhaustion, the coach would also share pearls of wisdom, telling players not to focus on the pain or the big picture, but just to get through the next small task.

  • Glende's older brother was singled out by the coach during his senior year.
  • Glende felt he might be "on the radar" to receive the coach's wrath during his own senior year.

The players

Mark Glende

The author, who was a player on the high school basketball team coached by the subject of the story.

Glende's high school basketball coach

An old-school disciplinarian who used unorthodox methods to push his players, including endless running drills and constant criticism.

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What they’re saying

“Don't think about the pain — think about the next bell.”

— Glende's high school basketball coach

“When you feel like quitting — and you will — don't quit today. Quit tomorrow.”

— Glende's high school basketball coach

“Your opponent isn't the guy in the other jersey. No, your opponent is your doubts and your fears.”

— Glende's high school basketball coach

The takeaway

Glende's story demonstrates how tough-love coaching methods, while controversial, can sometimes instill valuable life lessons about perseverance, breaking down big goals, and not giving up even when things get difficult. The coach's unorthodox approach helped shape Glende's mindset and work ethic long after his playing days ended.