Three months after President Barack Obama’s historic presidential win in November 2008, Mike Tomlin became the second black coach to lead his team to a Super Bowl victory. Rolling out sports was on hand when the two met at the White House in May to congratulate the Steelers’ on their Super Bowl victory over the Arizona Cardinals. President Obama and coach Mike Tomlin used brilliant strategies to attain the ultimate prize. Here are several practices that contributed to their success. –a.r.
A Meticulous Game Plan:
President Obama – During the election, Obama capitalized on social network sites and text messaging to reach voters who were able to spread his message of change. The day after officially taking office he followed through on his platform and encouraged his advisors to begin working on the war, the recession, and healthcare.
Coach Tomlin – Equipped with a pen and pad at all times, coach Tomlin observes and records play scenarios in order to gain the advantage when preparing his game plan. On the field, coach Tomlin encourages his team to make football games uncomfortable for opponents. Like the city of Pittsburgh, the team prides itself on being a hard working blue collar organization.
Building a Strong Team:
President Obama – By assembling the nation’s top experts in economics, health, education, and defense, President Obama worked to ensure that the nation would prosper during his administration. He also established the most diverse administration in history with a staff that is 34 percent female and 20 percent blacks and Hispanics.
Coach Tomlin – By remaining loyal to veterans like Hines Ward and honing the skills of talented young players like Deshea Townsend, coach Tomlin maintains an impressive combination of veteran and young players which brings a healthy balance to the locker room.
Composure:
President Obama – After enduring racial slurs from political opponents and death threats from fanatics, President Obama’s stoic demeanor gained him the confidence of Americans who trust the calmness he exudes under pressure.
Coach Tomlin – Unafraid to lay down the sledgehammer when needed, coach Tomlin relies heavily on his stern composure to lead his team through difficulties. Down by 3 points with two minutes remaining in Super Bowl 43, coach Tomlin made sure that his team remained focused without panicking. With quarterback Ben Roethlisberger leading the offense, the Steelers captured victory with seconds remaining on the clock.
