“Play with passion and heart. If you don't carry passion into sport – or into any job for that matter – you won't succeed”

– Phil Esposito

Phil Esposito is a former Canadian professional hockey player. He played in the NHL from 1964 to 1981 for the Chicago Black Hawks, the Boston Bruins, and the New York Rangers. In 1,282 games, Esposito totaled 717 goals, 873 assists, and 1,590 points. In 1969, Esposito became the first person to score 100 points in a single season. He also led the league in goals for six consecutive seasons. 

Esposito was a 6x NHL All-Star, 2x Hart Memorial Trophy winner, a 2x Stanley Cup winner, and was elected into the NHL Hall of Fame in 1984. In 1987, the Boston Bruins retired Esposito's #7 jersey. 

Esposito was not known for being the fastest or most skilled skater, but he was known for his scoring presence. He was able to score from just about anywhere on the ice. 

Sometimes skill and talent are not the most important qualities to have. If you don't love what you do and have passion for it, you won't ever become the best. Athletes who play with passion and heart want to be there more than anyone else and they will work as hard as they can to succeed. If you have found something you are passionate about, you have also found something you will be successful in.