Michigan Seals? The Leaders and the Best Learn to "Embrace the Suck!"

I have sort of had a moratorium on reading anything on ESPN....Call it a permanent case of, "You've pissed me off so many times that I'm just not going to visit your site anymore."  Problem is, everyone once in awhile something actually good does come from it...

For example, Mark Schalbach's article on the Michigan Football Seniors at Navy Seal Leadership Training is actually pretty good.  It's a longer than usual read and you'll probably want to set aside a full lunch hour, but it will give you a glimpse into how ole Coach Hoke is using the USA finest to shape and mold this year's seniors.

One of my favorite statements from Special Warfare Operator Stella was that the team needed to learn how to "Embrace the Suck!" when the going gets tough....



Stella then told the Wolverines the only thing they really need to know about the next three hours of training. It's what he likes to call "Embrace the suck."



"It doesn't matter who can run the fastest, who can shoot the best or who can throw it the farthest," Stella said. "What it all comes down to is how do you perform when you're stressed and under pressure? We're going to take you places where you've never been before. Be prepared for that. You're going to get a snapshot of yourself today and your teammates are going to get a snapshot of you today."

I kind of think that's always a good test of character.  What do people do and how do they react in the face of adversity?  When the chips are down?  After life kicks you in the nuts?  Are you going to get up?  Rally?  Find that inner self and move on?  You need a big suck in life every once in awhile to remind you that you're human, the race ISN'T over, and that you can always do better.

It'll be interesting to see how the Wolverines use this in what is shaping up to be a challenging season.