During a recent baseball scouting trip, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with Tyler Williams, a remarkable young man and a former LEAD Ambassador. Tyler, a four-year letterman at Texas Southern University (TSU), has always been one of the best players we’ve had in our 17 years of existence. Yet, beyond his on-field prowess, Tyler’s character stands out even more. He shared with me the guiding principles instilled in him by his father, Dexter Williams—the 3 E’s: Energy, Effort, and Enthusiasm.
Energy
Tyler’s relentless energy on and off the field is infectious. It’s a driving force that propels him and those around him to keep pushing, even when the going gets tough. His father taught him that maintaining high energy levels is crucial for sustaining performance and inspiring teammates.
Effort
Effort is the cornerstone of Tyler’s work ethic. Whether he’s playing as a utility player for TSU or pursuing his communications degree, Tyler’s commitment to giving his best effort is unwavering. Dexter Williams emphasized that effort is the one thing within our control, and Tyler exemplifies this in every endeavor he undertakes.
Enthusiasm
Tyler’s enthusiasm is evident in his passion for baseball and life. His positive attitude and love for the game are contagious, fostering a supportive and motivating environment. Enthusiasm, as Tyler lives it, is about finding joy in the process and sharing that joy with others.
As I listened to Tyler recount these lessons, I realized how these 3 E’s can bridge the gap between dreams and reality. For LEAD, my dream is to operate with a $10 million per year budget and to establish our own baseball and tennis complex in the NW Atlanta Bankhead Community, where I was born and raised. This complex will feature indoor training facilities, dormitories, community meeting spaces, and will host international baseball and tennis events throughout the year.
To turn this dream into a reality, I must keep the 3 E’s in my toolbox. Energy will fuel our relentless pursuit of excellence. Effort will ensure we consistently push the boundaries of what’s possible. Enthusiasm will keep us passionate and resilient in the face of challenges.
Tyler Williams, set to graduate from TSU in December 2024 with a communications degree, embodies these principles. I am hopeful he’ll return to Atlanta to work with LEAD as a coach/scout and content creator. His presence will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of LEAD Ambassadors.
The 3 E’s—Energy, Effort, and Enthusiasm—are not just principles for personal success but are essential for transforming dreams into reality. With these guiding us, the vision of LEAD’s future is bright and within reach. Together, let’s embrace these values and continue to empower and uplift our community.