"Maybe I'm sort of like the players - there's still a lot of little boy in me"

Herb Brooks, renowned for leading the 1980 US Olympic hockey team to their legendary victory, draws a parallel between himself and his players, acknowledging a persistent sense of youthfulness within. By referencing the “little boy” inside, Brooks captures more than nostalgia; he highlights the eternal spark of curiosity, enthusiasm, and unrestrained passion that drives not only children but also adults at their most motivated and inspired. The statement suggests that despite his role as a respected coach and leader, Brooks never lost touch with the emotional core that draws so many to the world of sports in the first place, the sense of play, discovery, and pure enjoyment.

This self-awareness hints at a philosophy that great leadership doesn’t require sacrificing the liveliness and wonder of youth. Instead, it can be cultivated by embracing it. For athletes, and even for those in other walks of life, holding onto a childlike spirit enables resilience and adaptability. The little boy inside is a source of creativity and hope, providing the courage to dream big, to dare to fail, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks with undiminished optimism. Brooks’s connection with this part of himself may explain his unique ability to resonate with young athletes, motivating them not just with tactics and training, but with a shared sense of adventure.

Such sentiment also acknowledges that growth does not demand the total relinquishment of innocence or playfulness. Remaining youthful in mind and spirit, even with adult responsibilities, adds a dimension of authenticity and relatability to one’s character. Brooks’s comment ultimately champions the idea that it’s often the “little boy,” the inner dreamer and believer, who enables people to achieve greatness, push boundaries, and inspire those around them. By recognizing and nurturing this internal energy, individuals maintain not just ambition, but also joy along the journey.