Heart of a Student Athlete: All-Pro Advice for Competitors and Their Families

by Karl Mecklenburg

The game of football teaches lessons that are as applicable on the playing field as they are in the classroom, workplace, and in our relationships with those around us. In Heart of a Student Athlete , Karl Mecklenburg--former all-pro captain of the Denver Broncos--offers young athletes and their families inspirational advice about how to dream, achieve, and overcome obstacles on their way to success. Mecklenburg's candid, anecdotal counsel will motivate student athletes to aim high, work hard, and avoid the numerous challenges that they may face--including pressure to perform in the game, emphasis on sport over study, and the temptation of illegal drugs. In addition to sharing the incredible story of his unlikely rise from amateur athlete to Super Bowl Championship competitor, Mecklenburg outlines his template for success and reveals its six key teamwork, courage, honesty and forgiveness, desire, dedication, and goal setting. Accessible and brimming with enthusiasm, Heart of a Student Athlete explains these keys and empowers athletes, parents, and coaches with the tools they need to achieve success and foster it in the young athletes in their lives. Praise for Heart of a Student Athlete :
'' Heart of a Student Athlete not only gives great advice to young athletes, families, and coaches trying to get the most of their sports experiences, but it also tells some of the untold stories of our 1980's championship teams.''
--John Elway, NFL Hall of Fame ''Karl's book is perfect for a young athlete trying to find his or her way, or for parents who want to guide their children into successful sports careers.''
--Amy Van Dyken, six-time Olympic Gold Medalist ''Karl Mecklenburg's Heart of a Student Athlete gives young athletes and their parents just what they need to hear. Reading his detailed stories, I felt like I was going through his challenges and in the game with him. Don't miss Karl's explanation of an athlete's need for decisiveness. I wish that someone had explained decisiveness to me early on. I learned it too late and it cost me big time . . . It is refreshing to read the straight truth from such an accomplished and credible source.''
--Traci Brown, three-time US National Collegiate Cycling Champion

Genres: Sports

120 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

During a time when professional athletes seem to make headlines often for things that they shouldn't, Karl Mecklenburg is a beacon of light. Former captain of the Denver Broncos with appearances in six Pro Bowls and three Super Bowls, Mecklenburg has built a life beyond football and motivates thousands of people of all ages. This book is funny, easily read and has lots of insider stories on and off the field. Really it's a good book for high school age athletes and adult family members of athletes.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would never have read this book, except that it was given to us by the author with the scripture Phil 4:8 along with his signature on the inside cover. We had the opportunity to meet Karl and Kathi in Vail. W enjoyed hearing Karl speak to our group and had an enjoyable chat with Kathi. They are great people and the advice in this book is applicable to even a non athlete like myself. I enjoyed the stories and real life experiences as well. A good short read.

[Jarrod Walker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very good book for those looking for inspiration with their teen athlete. As a bronco fan it is nice to see past heroes on the field continue to gain success at retirement.

[Dave Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

Short book that taps into the life of an unheralded All-Pro Linebacker to reveal keys to character and success that transcend the sports that shaped them in him.

[Mike McGrath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Seeing this good guy in person at the Rotary District Conference in Avon, Colorado, made the stories in the book more enjoyable. If there are a few snippets in any book like this, I consider it a good book. GO BRONCOS!

[Shawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I had the chance to see Karl Mecklenburg give one of his motivational speeches before I read this and in my opinion it has heightened the benefits this book provides. Without the speech though this book is a great read for any kids trying to excel in team sports, especially football. For those reading this for his six key elements it still is a good read, but lacks that drive that the speech helps inspire.

I enjoyed his stories during his football days and how each instance has helped develop him to who he was and is today.