Team USA.org
Olympic and Paralympic athletes admit that it takes a team to help them reach the highest level of competition. And one of the most important members helping them succeed is dad. Whether he sat in the stands or stood next to them, they all agree that father knows best. In honor of Father’s Day, we asked 28 Team USA athletes to share the best advice their pops have ever given them. After you read them you’ll see where so many athletes get their strength and their sense of humor. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there!
Olympic gymnastics silver medalist Chellsie Memmel (who was coached by her father): “My dad has taught me so much and I wouldn’t be the person I am today without him. Before I would go onto the floor to compete at an event, he would say, ‘Have fun, I’ll see you at the finish line’ — simple but effective in always giving me a confidence boost before competing.”
Olympic diving gold medalist David Boudia: “Something my father always says that I will pass on to my daughter is: ‘You always make time for the things that are important to you.’ So if you say that you didn’t have enough time to get your schoolwork done — or study for a test because you watched a movie — then you are saying your entertainment is more important than your schoolwork. Ultimately, you’re saying that your future isn’t as important.”
Shade Global 