RTI Journey is a new season-long series on VUCommodores.com written by Vanderbilt head football coach Derek Mason. Check back for a new entry every other week from Coach Mason.
Tasking Your Intelligence
At an institution such as Vanderbilt University, there is a perception assigned to our student population and their ability to perform in the classroom. Descriptive terms such as holistic learners, concept thinkers, and problem-solvers are labels that I continually hear when people are looking to define the dominant trait of INTELLIGENCE of a Vanderbilt student. I embrace the foundation of the intellect needed and necessary to perform on a “big stage” in classrooms on this campus, but that alone is not enough to be successful as you compete in Saturday’s primetime conference. INTELLIGENCE is more than being smart – it’s arranging the pieces of the academic and football puzzle into a resounding image. As it’s defined, INTELLIGENCE is the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
In the recruiting process of student-athletes, after identifying athletes with football talent, my staff and I focus on the student that fits the profile of Vanderbilt University. On paper, that student must be capable of meeting performance goals and expectations for graduation; but INTELLIGENCE requires that he has the ability to make this a lifestyle. His daily decisions and steps become part of the Vanderbilt Man’s INTELLIGENT process. He must navigate the morning practice schedule that wakes him at 5:00 a.m., and requires him to get to bed by 10:30 p.m. He must be mindful enough to get off the practice field in time to refuel in the dining hall before his 11:10 a.m., class. He must wisely incorporate eight hours of study hall into his demanding weekly schedule. But more than managing his time, his emotional INTELLIGENCE must allow him to understand the why behind our program decisions and to utilize the time and resources wisely. We practice in the morning to allow the opportunity to attend lectures, professors’ office hours and tutoring sessions that would otherwise be impossible with afternoon practice times. Even on our off-day, he must exercise great judgment in making the training room and weight room his sanctuary to take care of his body … his body is his job. He treats his time as if it were not a renewable resource and if you ask him why, he will say “The only thing we’re running out of is time.” It’s always a sprint to Saturday when gameday comes fast during an SEC season. His ability to get the work done and be where his feet are can inevitably effect the outcome.
Many are called … few are chosen. Vanderbilt Men embrace the academic rigors required at Vanderbilt, compete in the best football conference in the country, and do it in one of the best cities in the United States. Making the INTELLIGENT choice of Vanderbilt University will never be one you apologize for. Becoming a Vanderbilt Man is a 40 year, not a 4 year, decision. That choice will task every bit of your INTELLIGENCE as you chase greatness.
Derek Mason
Vanderbilt Football Head Coach
RELENTLESS | TOUGH | INTELLIGENT