“Be more concerned with your character than with your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.” (John Wooden)

- As quoted in How to Be Like Coach Wooden: Life Lessons from Basketball’s Greatest Leader (2006) pg. 5
As both a basketball player and a basketball coach, Wooden was frequently noted for his quotes on character, team-building, and success.

“The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor.” (Vince Lombardi)

- As quoted in Developing the leaders around you (2005) pg. 119
Lombardi frequently spoke proactively, and positively, about success at an individual and team level, as the head coach of a champion football team.