Coach Kevin Young’s Speech Ahead of the Match against WVU
Ladies and gentlemen, players, staff, and our loyal supporters,
As we prepare to face a formidable opponent in West Virginia University, I want to take this moment to share my thoughts—not just on the game we have ahead of us, but the essence of what it means to represent BYU on this stage.
Basketball is more than just a game for us; it’s a commitment to excellence, teamwork, and the values we uphold as members of the BYU community. Every time we step onto the court, we carry with us the tradition of our beloved university, and we strive to exemplify sportsmanship, integrity, and respect.
West Virginia is a team filled with talent, grit, and determination. I have immense respect for their coaching staff, and their players have proven time and again their ability to compete at the highest level. Our upcoming match will not be just another game on our schedule; it is an opportunity for us to showcase the hard work and dedication that we have put in this season.
However, this year has also presented us with unique challenges—challenges that have tested our resolve both on and off the court. I’ve often spoken about adversity, and how it shapes who we are as athletes and individuals. Even in times of uncertainty, we must stay focused on our values and remember why we play this game: to inspire one another and our community, and to lift each other when times are tough.
As your head coach, I view my role as not just a strategist on the court but a leader in our broader mission. I strive to ensure that our players grow into strong, principled men who understand the values of humility, compassion, and teamwork. In these challenging times, I encourage you to lean on each other, support each other, and remember that we are more than just a basketball team; we are a family.
Now, I want to address an issue that has arisen recently regarding our participation in this match-up against WVU. As many of you know, there have been external pressures and discussions surrounding whether we should even participate. These discussions extend beyond the realm of basketball into the very heart of what it means to compete with honor and respect.
I want you to know that I have taken these concerns seriously. While the sport we love brings undeniable joy and excitement, it is equally critical to recognize the values for which we stand. We always strive to uphold the principles of our faith and the expectations of our institution, and these tenets guide every decision we make as representatives of BYU.
Therefore, as we discuss the possibility of withdrawing from the match, I want to emphasize that our choice is not made from a place of fear but rather from a commitment to our values. Competing at the highest levels of college basketball is incredibly important to us, but it must align with our mission and vision as players and members of this community.
If we choose to withdraw, let it be because we are prioritizing our integrity over rivalry. We owe it to ourselves, our families, and our supporters to act in a way that reflects our character. In the end, it’s essential to remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth; every decision we make, simple or complex, is a reflection of who we are.
So players, as you take the court in the forthcoming days, I urge you to play with heart, passion, and conviction. Regardless of the outcome, leave everything on that court. Know that you are part of something greater than yourselves—an institution steeped in tradition, a culture of honor, and a community that supports you unconditionally.
In conclusion, whether we step onto that court against WVU or make the decision to withdraw for the greater good, let us hold our heads high. Let us stand together in unity, strength, and purpose. Let’s embody the spirit of BYU—not just as athletes, but as men of character prepared to face whatever challenge lies ahead. Thank you.
[Applause]
In sharing this speech, Coach Kevin Young emphasizes the importance of integrity, values, and character both in sport and life, reminding his team that they are representatives of a larger community and culture. The decision to participate or withdraw from competition is framed as an opportunity to uphold these principles rather than merely an athletic choice. Sophistication, humility, and a commitment to the broader mission of BYU resonate throughout his message.
