The Hard Hat: 21 Ways to Be a Great Teammate

Chapter 13George's House

Having watched the 2007 team play in the NCAA semifinals and hearing Jeff talk about George and the 2004 season, I was struck by how clear it was that George impacted not only his team, but also Cornell's entire program. After all, many of the players on the 2007 team had never even met George, but they were still inspired by him.

The 2004 season was just the beginning of George's impact on the Cornell lacrosse program. Jeff told me that they had never reassigned his locker, which still has a picture of George and a #21 jersey inside. Guys see George's picture and are reminded of his spirit and presence every day. George lost his life playing the game he loved. How could the players who come after him not give their best effort? Everyone knew how hard he had played for the team, and they wanted to play well for him. As a result, Cornell's lacrosse team became a selfless and effort-driven program. Schoellkopf Field became known as “George's House.” Before every home game, the team would say, “We have to protect George's house.” Players tracked “Boiardi Stats,” consisting of ground balls, hustle, and selfless plays, and those who played for the team—as opposed to personal glory—were recognized. “Boiardi Stats” became part of the Cornell lacrosse vernacular and culture. If you were told to give a Boiardi-like effort, you knew you had to step up your drive ...