Heroes Get Remembered But Legends Never Die

THE HARD HAT

BY JON GORDON

BLOG POST BY CULLEN MILLERICK

On March 17 of 2004, the Cornell University lacrosse team faced off against the Binghamton University lacrosse team. During the fourth quarter of the game George Boiardi, the defensive midfielder and captain of Cornell was struck and killed chest by a shot from a binghampton attacker.George Boiardi wasn't just another player he was a great friend an even better teammate and an inspiration to many. The way George had played and acted as a teammate had inspired Jon Gordon to write The Hard Hat, 21 ways to be a great teammate. The Hard Hat uses George's story to teach others how to act on and off the playing court. Throughout the book Gordon uses some of Goerges old teammates to share stories of how Goerge had affected them. For example Rob Pannell, a current Major League Lacrosse star narrated chapter 21 and shares story on how his Cornell team (he didn't even play with George) was inspired by George to make a comeback against Duke in the semifinals of nationals. He says " Unfortunatly, I have never met George, but I feel as if he has been teammate and leader to me during my five years at Cornell and is now a friend helping me through everyday life"(75).

   It was obvious how significant the impact George left on the Lacrosse and sports world. To this day the Cornell lacrosse team gives a Hard Hat to the player that had the best game that day.The Hard Hat isnt given to the player that had the most goals that game but to the player that hustled the most and played the least selfishly, this was how George would play everyday and this was the type of impact he had left on the Cornell lacrosse organization. In the book Gordon gives 21 ways to be a great teammate, all of these were in inspired by how George acted and played.

    When I got this book from my Hockey coach to read I was slightly concerned that I wouldn't enjoy it, however it was the most I've enjoyed a book in a while. The way the story is told isn't the best but it is the details that matter. As an athlete and a lacrosse player I was able to relate to the kind of "lay it all on the line for your team" type of attitude so I was able to fully understand the book and enjoy it.If you are an athlete or a hard worker you may be able to relate to the story the most but if you aren't this book gives many life lessons and stories that can teach you how to become a better everyday person. It teaches you how to help others  and be one with yourself.

In conclusion I would highly suggest this book for someone who is going through a lot and wants to find themselves or someone looking to read a good story. The writing overall by Gordon wasn't the best but the great storyline of the book made up for poor writing techniques. (If anyone is looking to find this book to read then they can ask Mr. McGuire the business teacher and hockey coach I'm sure he'd be willing to lend it out to anyone that wants to read it.)