Coaches Quote by Jerry Tarkanian
“A lot of coaches want guys to be loose for games. I never wanted them to be loose. I wanted their hands sweating, their knees shaking, their eyes bulging. I wanted them to act like we were going to war.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Press conference, 1985, US college basketball
Coach emphasizes extreme intensity and fearlessness in competition, seeking physiological arousal as a performance driver.
In simple terms: He wants players to feel nervous and ready for battle.
Key Takeaway
Embrace controlled stress to boost focus.
Themes
competition
intensity
psychology
motivation
Mood
determined
intense
Type
motivational
inspirational
When to use this quote
- pre‑game preparation
- high‑stakes matches
- team building
- mental conditioning
Key Concepts
Arousal theory
fight or flight
team dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance intensity with composure?
- When does pressure become detrimental?
A Different Perspective
Excessive stress can impair coordination and increase injury risk.
