Ross Childs: Hockey Mentor
11/20/23 • 12 min
This week I pay homage to one of my best mentors, role models, and friends: K. Ross Childs, who passed away a year ago at 84. Ross played goalie at the University of Michigan, almost won the award for lowest goals-against as a junior – then moved to forward as a senior because that’s what the team needed. He became Grand Traverse County’s administrator, and was awarded Michigan Civil Servant of the Year, with a rare ability to work with both sides of the aisle.
Along the way, he ran the Ann Arbor Amateur Hockey Association for more than a decade -- where he also served as my first coach, leaving a lasting impression. When he stepped down, he received three or four standing ovations. He then started the Traverse City high school hockey program.
He and wife Helen also raised three children: Mary, born paraplegic; Susan, who was hit by a car as a toddler, and not expected to survive, but did and now has a teenager of her own; and Scott, my best friend, killed in a car accident at 15.
As my old U-M professor Ralph Williams said: “Happiness is not a state into which one falls; it is a choice of the will, and always against odds.”
Ross’s greatest triumph, in my view, was the willpower to find happiness in life despite the incredible tragedies he had to endure. And I believe he knew he had to, if he was going to be of service to others. And you simply cannot find another man who served others so well.
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
https://www.facebook.com/johnubacon
https://twitter.com/Johnubacon
About our Host:
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
This week I pay homage to one of my best mentors, role models, and friends: K. Ross Childs, who passed away a year ago at 84. Ross played goalie at the University of Michigan, almost won the award for lowest goals-against as a junior – then moved to forward as a senior because that’s what the team needed. He became Grand Traverse County’s administrator, and was awarded Michigan Civil Servant of the Year, with a rare ability to work with both sides of the aisle.
Along the way, he ran the Ann Arbor Amateur Hockey Association for more than a decade -- where he also served as my first coach, leaving a lasting impression. When he stepped down, he received three or four standing ovations. He then started the Traverse City high school hockey program.
He and wife Helen also raised three children: Mary, born paraplegic; Susan, who was hit by a car as a toddler, and not expected to survive, but did and now has a teenager of her own; and Scott, my best friend, killed in a car accident at 15.
As my old U-M professor Ralph Williams said: “Happiness is not a state into which one falls; it is a choice of the will, and always against odds.”
Ross’s greatest triumph, in my view, was the willpower to find happiness in life despite the incredible tragedies he had to endure. And I believe he knew he had to, if he was going to be of service to others. And you simply cannot find another man who served others so well.
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
https://www.facebook.com/johnubacon
https://twitter.com/Johnubacon
About our Host:
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
Previous Episode
Pat and Barry Richter : From Athletic Legends to Leadership Icons
Join host John U Bacon on the Let Them Lead Podcast as he delves into the extraordinary journey of Pat Richter, a sports legend who excelled in football, basketball, and baseball, securing both athletic and academic All-American honors. Pat's remarkable path led him to an eight-season NFL career with the Washington Redskins, but his story didn't end there. Rising to the role of Vice-President at Oscar Mayer, he later returned to his alma mater, transforming the landscape of Badger athletics by recruiting icons like Barry Alvarez and Bo Ryan, ushering in a golden era celebrated with a statue outside Camp Randall Stadium.
The legacy continues as Pat's son, Barry, carved his own unique path, earning national recognition, the esteemed captain's "C," and All-America honors in the one sport his father didn't partake in - ice hockey. Barry's journey extended to representing the U.S. Olympic team and competing in the NHL, before venturing into a successful business career. Today, Barry serves as the President of Hausman Group in Madison.
In this episode, they share compelling stories about the influential leaders, coaches, and mentors who shaped their values, including a glimpse into their relationship with the legendary Vince Lombardi. Through their experiences, we uncover the timeless elements of leadership that have remained constants over the past sixty years. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on sports, success, and enduring leadership principles.
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
https://www.facebook.com/johnubacon
https://twitter.com/Johnubacon
About our Host:
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
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About our Host:
For info about the book or this podcast please visit our website:
http://www.letthemleadbybacon.com
You can connect with John via these platforms:
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