Happy 99th, Coach!

Indiana native John R. Wooden, a legendary Purdue guard in the 30s, World War 2 Vet in the 40s, coach and teacher through the 50s, 60s and 70s, author, mentor, Presidential Medal of Freedom winner and genuine American icon since, turns 99 on Wednesday.

You can read more here,  wish him a happy birthday here, or see the outpouring of love for Coach Wooden by doing a simple google search here.

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A short bio of Mr. Wooden can be viewed here.

A local story from Tuesday’s Indianapolis Star, discussing his erstwhile hometown, can be read here.

Two other good, creative entries can be found here and here.

John Wooden’s Seven Point Creed, given to him by his father upon his graduation from grammar school:
  • Be true to yourself.
  • Make each day your masterpiece.
  • Help others.
  • Drink deeply from good books, especially the Bible.
  • Make friendship a fine art.
  • Build a shelter against a rainy day.
  • Pray for guidance and give thanks for your blessings every day.

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* – John Wooden photo credit: Andy Lyons / Getty Images via FanHouse

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About AJ Kaufman

AJ Kaufman is the co-editor of Midwest Sports Fans, where he has been a columnist since March 2009. AJ, a former Los Angeles schoolteacher and Indiana military historian, is now a corporate journalist, compiling publications for organizations across the country. He is a supporter of anything baseball-related -- especially minor league ball -- and mid-major college hoops. The author of three books, AJ is married to Maria and currently lives in Lincoln, Neb.

Follow him on Twitter (@ajkauf7) for ruminations on sports, politics, history and travel.