April 1-15: Guided by Greatness: The Coaches Who Made Me Who I Am

Throughout my life, I have been fortunate to have mentors who have shaped me into the person I am today. They have guided, challenged, and inspired me, leaving an indelible mark on my personal and professional journey. Among them, three stand out: Guy Packer, Dick Allen, and Linda Wells. While my parents were my first and most influential mentors, these three individuals played a crucial role in my development, demonstrating the immense value of great coaching and mentorship.

I often find myself thinking about Guy Packer and the profound influence he had on me during my early years in sports. He coached me in soccer, basketball, and softball, shaping not just my abilities as an athlete but also my mindset and approach to the game. His guidance and encouragement left a lasting impression, instilling lessons that have stayed with me far beyond the playing field. Guy was more than just a coach—he was like a second dad to me. His mentorship went beyond the game, shaping not only my skills but also my character. I had an instant connection with him and held the greatest respect for his coaching abilities and deep knowledge. His influence left a lasting impact, both on and off the field. I am forever grateful for him.

Mr. Allen—the world-famous Dick Allen—was an incredible mentor who shaped me as both an athlete and a competitor. He didn’t just coach; he instilled in me the drive to push harder, to be better. He forced me to improve, and I wanted to rise to that challenge—not just for myself, but for him. Some of my best memories were those late nights in the batting cages, with Steve the Janitor feeding pitches through the machine, driven by a relentless desire to perfect my swing. Coach Allen had a way of showing his appreciation that wasn’t always obvious—if he gave you a hard time, you knew he respected you. Somehow, it was always my fault, but always in a way that made me laugh. He taught me more about softball and basketball during my high school years than anyone else, and because of him, my time at Reed High School is filled with fond memories. Though I played basketball for him too, it’s my softball career that I owe to Coach Allen—and for that, I will always be grateful.

Linda Wells was a trailblazer, a leader, and an advocate for those she coached and mentored. Her influence in my life was profound because she led by example. She showed me what it meant to be passionate, to fight for what is right, and to lift others up along the way. Her ability to balance strength with empathy made her an extraordinary mentor, and I strive to embody those same qualities in my own leadership.

Words can’t fully capture the impact Linda Wells has had on my life. She wasn’t just my coach at Arizona State University—she was my guide through some of my most challenging moments. During my time with Coach, I faced one of the hardest experiences of my life: losing my mom at 21. It was an incredibly trying time emotionally, but having my team, my teammates, and Coach Wells made it bearable. She gave me stability when I needed it most, not just as a coach, but as a mentor who truly believed in me.

She changed my life by giving me the opportunity to walk onto the team, and through relentless hard work, I earned a scholarship. Every day, I had to push myself—to get into the lineup, to succeed in the classroom, to prove that I belonged. Overcoming shoulder surgery after my redshirt season was another battle, but I fought through it because I wanted to compete. I needed to be in that lineup.

But beyond the game itself, Coach taught me life’s most valuable lessons. She instilled in me the importance of playing the game the right way—hustling on and off the field, never settling, always finding ways to improve. Her words still echo in my mind: "Tina, get all of the points." She taught me work ethic, professionalism, determination, ethics, integrity, and even how to find humor in the grind.

After my playing days, I had the privilege of working for her as a student assistant and later as a graduate assistant while earning my master’s degree. It was then that I saw firsthand everything it takes to run a powerhouse PAC-10 (PAC-12) program. The behind-the-scenes work, the strategy, the dedication—it all deepened my appreciation for her as coach and our coaching staff, and the game. During this time, I developed a lifelong freind in Coach Wells as well. She even surprised me on my 40th birthday by flying to Reno to celebrate with my family and me. That was so special. I am forever indebted to you for all you have given me. Your influence goes far beyond the field, and I carry your lessons with me every single day.

These individuals, along with my parents, reinforced a critical truth: coaches and mentors are invaluable in shaping who we become. They see possibilities in us that we may not yet recognize, and they push us to reach beyond our comfort zones. They instill discipline, resilience, and belief, providing a foundation upon which we build our futures.

The impact of great mentorship cannot be overstated. Whether in sports, education, or professional development, having someone in your corner who genuinely wants to see you succeed can make all the difference. I owe so much to my mentors, and I strive every day to pay forward the lessons they have taught me by mentoring and supporting others. I love the phrase, "Lift as you Rise." I try to live by this motto, daily.

If you have been lucky enough to have a great coach or mentor in your life, take a moment to reflect on their impact. And if you have the opportunity, be that guiding force for someone else—because mentorship, at its core, is about lifting others to their full potential.

What are you reading:

Me: Things We Lost to the Water by Eric Nguyen & Listening to The Wedding People by Alison Espach