1. “Row the boat, even when the waters are rough.”
2. “Energy and passion define our journey.”
3. “Change your best every single day.”
4. “Success isn’t owned, it’s leased, and rent is due every day.”
5. “Refuse to be outworked.”
6. “Every player is a reflection of our culture.”
7. “Blame, complain, defend – eliminate those from your vocabulary.”
8. “Handle success like you handle failure—focused and humble.”
9. “Pour your heart into what you believe in.”
10. “Commitment isn’t a feeling; it’s an act.”
11. “Connection matters more than lines on a playbook.”
12. “Embrace the discomfort of growth.”
13. “Developing leaders on and off the field.”
14. “Recruiting character over talent.”
15. “The standard is the standard.”
16. “Our unity forms our identity.”
17. “Adversity reveals true champions.”
18. “Intensity and integrity in every practice.”
19. “Marrying the emotional with the tactical.”
20. “The relentless pursuit of perfection.”
21. “Mindsets drive actions and actions drive results.”
22. “Find meaning in every moment.”
23. “Everyone row; together we go farther.”
24. “Gratitude fuels our grind.”
25. “Turn skepticism into belief.”
26. “Expansion mindset over fixed mindset.”
27. “The team first, player second.”
28. “We don’t rise to the occasion; we sink to our level of training.”
29. “Growth, contribution, and effort—our core values.”
30. “Confidence comes from preparation.”
31. “Winning culture begins with belief.”
32. “Measure yourself against your best self.”
33. “Stay humble, stay hungry, stay ready.”
34. “Potential meets performance through perseverance.”
35. “Push beyond your comfort zone.”
36. “The best idea is a borrowed idea.”
37. “A disciplined team is a successful team.”
38. “Players don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
39. “We’re in the business of building men.”
40. “The scoreboard never tells the full story.”
41. “Surround yourself with people who elevate you.”
42. “Inspire before you instruct.”
43. “Let’s set a new standard.”
44. “Your attitude determines your altitude.”
45. “Relentless effort beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.”
46. “Championships are won in the off-season.”
47. “No Magic; just hard work and dedication.”
48. “Heart and hustle lead to victory.”
49. “Drive for greatness, not just wins.”
50. “Empower each other, grow together.”
Imaginary Discussion: P.J. Fleck and Tony Dungy on Leadership and Motivation in Football
P.J. Fleck: Hey Tony, it’s a privilege to catch up with you! I’ve always admired your leadership style and what you’ve accomplished in the NFL. How have you seen leadership evolve in football over the years?
Tony Dungy: Thanks, P.J.! It’s great to chat with you, too. Leadership in football has become more about connecting with players on a personal level. Back in the day, it was much more top-down, but now it’s about collaboration and understanding each player’s individual motivators. That’s something I see you doing exceptionally well at Minnesota.
P.J. Fleck: I appreciate that, Tony. I’ve always believed in the “Row the Boat” philosophy, where every individual’s role is crucial to the success of the team. It’s about creating a culture where everyone feels valued and connected, regardless of their position. What are some of the key principles you’ve held onto throughout your coaching career?
Tony Dungy: Consistency has always been important to me. Consistent principles, consistent behavior, and consistent effort. I also emphasize the importance of integrity and treating players as people first. It’s not just about winning games, but helping them grow as men. What about you, P.J.? What’s a principle you never compromise on?
P.J. Fleck: For me, it’s energy and enthusiasm. I believe in bringing 100% energy to everything I do. It’s contagious and creates a positive environment. I never compromise on making sure the team feels that passion every day. What’s one piece of advice you’d give to young coaches looking to make an impact?
Tony Dungy: Be authentic. Players can sense when you’re not genuine. Your words and actions need to align consistently. Lead with honesty and empathy, and always keep learning. The game evolves, and so should we. Speaking of evolving, how do you keep your “Row the Boat” culture fresh and engaging for your players?
P.J. Fleck: Innovation is key. I keep things fresh by constantly introducing new elements to our routine—new drills, new motivational techniques, and even new team-building activities. The core values remain the same, but how we express them can change. It keeps the players engaged and excited. Any last thoughts on striking a balance between discipline and compassion?
Tony Dungy: It’s all about respect. When players know you respect them and have their best interests at heart, they respond well to discipline. It’s four quarters of compassion, shored up by a framework of discipline. Both are necessary for success, on and off the field. Keep doing what you’re doing, P.J. You’re making a significant impact!
P.J. Fleck: Thanks, Tony! Your insights are invaluable. Let’s keep rowing our respective boats and making waves in the football community!
And with that, two visionary coaches, P.J. Fleck and Tony Dungy, continue to inspire each other and countless others in the football world. Their shared commitment to leadership and player growth is a beacon for coaches everywhere.
