Growing Up in the Projects: A Tale of Love, Discipline, and Community

TLDRGrowing up in the housing projects in Philadelphia, I had a loving and disciplined upbringing. My mother's strict rules and expectations kept us on the right path. Our close-knit community taught us the values of trust and togetherness. Despite the challenges and negative stereotypes associated with the projects, we built a strong foundation of character and discipline.

Key insights

Loving and disciplined upbringing in the housing projects

Strong sense of community and trust within the neighborhood

Fear of discipline kept us on the right path

A balanced view of life in the projects, not just focusing on crime and poverty

Gaining exposure to different races and cultures later in life

Q&A

Did living in the projects affect your outlook on life?

—Yes, living in the projects taught me the importance of discipline and community. It shaped my values and made me appreciate the close-knit relationships that can be formed within a neighborhood.

How did your mother's discipline impact your upbringing?

—My mother's discipline kept us on the right path and taught us to abide by the rules of the household. While it may have been strict at times, it ensured that we grew up with strong character and moral values.

Did you experience any negative aspects of living in the projects?

—While there were challenges, such as crime and poverty, within the projects, our close-knit community protected us and instilled a sense of trust and togetherness. We focused on the positives and built a strong foundation despite the stereotypes.

How did your childhood experiences shape your coaching style?

—My upbringing taught me the importance of discipline and building relationships based on trust and respect. As a coach, I strive to instill these values in my players and help them aspire to be their best both on and off the field.

What lessons did you learn from your childhood that have stayed with you?

—I learned the value of hard work, discipline, and the power of a strong and supportive community. These lessons have shaped my outlook on life and continue to guide me in my personal and professional endeavors.