Dad Taught Me to Keep My Wits about Me…

In Hokie Nation, Frank Beamer is king. He coaches Virginia Tech’s legendary football team.

Shane and Frank Beamer

The winningest active coach in college football history, Coach Beamer is clearly “the man” in that part of this land.

While some of his peers have struggled with controversy, Coach Beamer is an example of doing it right. He turns out winners in sports, winners in class, and winners with class. Thanks in part to Beamer’s leadership, Virginia Tech’s academic rankings and ethical reputation are among the best in the world.

Since 2011, Frank’s son Shane has been at his side as Associate Head Coach. Like his dad, Shane forged his career, first as an outstanding player, then as a coach.

The Savvy Dad asked Shane to share the best from his dad’s playbook of life:

“Growing up the son of a football coach, I realized quickly that the profession is full of highs and lows. This was true for me, as well as my dad. I was as good as Dad’s last game. When Dad won, he was smart. Lose, and he was a bum. Hero or culprit – week after week, it also identified me.

There’s so much attention given to college football. The results of Saturday games are magnified every week. This not only affects the team and coaches, but their families as well. Fans are quick to point out what they think of your dad wherever you go.

While growing up, I watched my dad in the spotlight and under pressure. Two things really stood out:

1. Don’t act special. Too many times “celebrities” are put on pedestals and act entitled. They expect to be treated a certain way. Not my dad. Never once did I see him act like he deserved to be treated differently than the next guy. He’s never turned down an autograph or picture from a fan.

2. Stay even-keeled. This profession is full of peaks and valleys. If you’re riding an emotional roller coaster day to day, good luck surviving. Win or lose, Dad is always the same even-tempered guy the next day. His teams play that way, too.

My dad is the same humble, appreciative, wonderful person today that he was in 1992. That was the year his team won only two games and he almost got fired. He hasn’t changed. Whether in athletics or life, I try to live the same way.”

No matter your fame, be kind and stay sane.
Level heads make winning plays.