For the next week or so, I want to write about people I have met in my life that exemplify what H.E.A.R.T means to me. Playing with H.E.A.R.T doesn't necessarily mean that you are the best player (it doesn't mean you're not either), doesn't mean you put up gaudy stats, or that everyone knows your name. It means that you play your cheeks off no matter the score, the final outcome of the game or how many people are in the stands.
One person who continuously sticks out in my mind is a great guy I know who I went to High School with. His name is Keith Cannone. If you went to Linganore High School in the early 90's, there is no doubt you crossed paths at some point with Keith. He's not only was one of the nicest guys you would ever meet (for a Yankee's fan), he LOVED the sport of basketball. I mean he REALLY loves basketball. Keith would dribble a basketball between classes in the hallways at Linganore. To increase his hops, he wore those incredibly uncomfortable shoes that worked your calves all day long.
Keith loved basketball as much as I love football...maybe even more. He was such a great teammate that he NEVER once complained out loud about minutes. NEVER talked stats. He just played his ass off every time he got in the game. It was evident to everyone who knew him how much he loved hoops because when he got in the game, the crowd would go nuts. Everyone in the stand showed Keith love because he truly loved the game and played his H.E.A.R.T out, every minute of every game.
I loved the way Keith played the game, his love of the game and his unselfish dedication to his team and school. There is NO statistic you can put on the impact that he had on me and countless others. I'm proud to say that I not only know Keith but that he actually helped mold my thinking of how every play counts and that you should play each one like it's your last.
H.E.A.R.T Athletics LLC
Friday, October 14, 2011
H.E.A.R.T Series, Part One Keith Cannone
Hello, my name is John Harris and H.E.A.R.T Athletics LLC is the name of the company I started during my last year in the military. H.E.A.R.T Athletics LLC is a company that aims to bridge the gap between a common sports phrase (heart; having it, using it, wearing it on your sleeve...etc.) and the athletes who exude it. It has been my life long dream to start my own business while providing a unique product to athletes and sports fans just like myself. Having "H.E.A.R.T" means so much to me because as a football player, I wasn't the biggest or the fastest, but I played hard each and every down I was on the field. One of my most favorite memories is walking onto a Division 1AA football team and not only making the team, but starting as a Freshman Cornerback for the season. I hope you find my blog entertaining and inspiring, ultimately pushing YOU to achieve lofty goals.
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3 comments:
Wow! I have to say that I am floored right now. I literally got the chills reading this, some of the best memories that I have. Thank you for reminding me that the things you do and the things you say actually make an impact on other people, even many years later.
You were an amazing athlete, probably still are. I think part of the reason why we clicked was because we both shared the passion for sports and life.
I'm sincerely moved by the fact that you took the time to write this. You are a class act and deserve every bit of success you have achieved.
If there's anything I can do to assist you with the H.E.A.R.T project, I would be honored to do so.
Keith
Rudy! Rudy!
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