So far in my columns, I have introduced effective ways to gain a competitive edge through mental conditioning, specifically by utilizing breathing as a mind-body connection and by goalsetting. These tools are only effective, however, if athletes have the drive to reach their goals, whether for themselves or for their team.
When I consider drive and motivation, I cannot help thinking about the surprising success of the Vegas Golden Knights. First, playing for the Stanley Cup in their inaugural season is extraordinary. Second, competing with a core of players released by their former teams and then given new opportunities with the Knights is stunning. Rejected by other teams, these players committed last summer to hard work. In fact, William "Wild Bill" Karlsson was so motivated to improve his level of play that he redesigned his stick blade and spent much of July and August on synthetic ice refining his shot. His hard work has paid off as he is now a top NHL scorer, more than doubling the number of goals he scored in any previous season.
