Image commercially licensed from: Unsplash
Written by: Rich Sadiv
When I started working with New York Jets offensive tackle Mekhi Becton, I knew we had an urgent task ahead of us. Becton, a first-round draft pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, was looking for a training spark as he aimed to better himself ahead of the 2023-24 season, and my job was to prepare him to achieve that reality, push him to reach his full potential as a talented young player, and ultimately position him for long-term success in the league.
All such opportunities share a simple but crucial truth: for the plan to work, both the athlete and the coach must fully dedicate themselves to the process – physically, mentally, and emotionally – while eliminating needless distractions and hindrances. Fortunately, Mekhi was willing to uphold this demeanor and put in the work, and now, as he shifts gears and prepares to take the field this fall, I am proud of what we accomplished.
Along the way, Mekhi’s training reminded me of another vital yet simple fact: fundamentally speaking, you do not have to be a pro-level athlete to get into the best shape of your life. Whether you are bouncing back from a setback, striving for a new personal best or similar performance metric, or have never touched a weight in your life, all it takes is the vision, determination, and consistency to make training a lifestyle.
I always say that, as a coach, I will give my all for my athletes, as this is simply the only way to ensure an airtight, focused training atmosphere. When a prospective athlete reciprocates that level of commitment, it completes the foundation that almost always leads to success – and that transcends fitness, skill level, or overall experience. Putting those factors aside, the most successful athletes are often the ones with the courage to be both self-aware of standing weaknesses and focused on the ways to improve them. It’s not easy, and many quit before they can find momentum, but if your mind wants a goal, your body will likely follow suit if you just keep allowing the former to spur the latter.
It all boils down to mindset and routine. What Mekhi has accomplished these last few months is notable and impressive, but rather than putting such work ethic on an unreachable pedestal, remember this: you can do it too. You may not be putting on pads for the Jets, but you’ll almost certainly see a positive change.
