Traditions of Excellence: Mike Garzillo #INTEGRITY

Traditions of Excellence: Mike Garzillo #INTEGRITY

Happy February Lehigh Fam! Last semester, we shared some insights from Fall and Winter student-athletes and, although the snow and ice would have us think otherwise, Spring is approaching! Lehigh's Spring student-athletes are finally starting their seasons after a long and cold preseason. We are continuing our "Traditions of Excellence" series with some of their perspectives!

I would like to introduce you to Mike Garzillo, a junior co-captain for the Baseball team. Mike has been identified as the epitome of integrity. He is passionate, caring and nothing motivates him more than doing the right thing than his team. He believes in taking advantage of every opportunity and that there is beauty in life. Embrace the positive energy!

Much Love,
Walsh

Walsh: How do your values influence your Baseball career and team leadership?
Mike:
I would say that the most important thing is to reflect on what matters most to me and think about those values in all parts of life. I want to understand who I am deep down. As a leader, I want to stay consistent in every aspect of my life, rather than being a certain way in one situation and different in another. Sticking to my value system is important in being able to do that. In every experience, on and off the field, I have the opportunity to think about how I can become the best person I can be.

Walsh: What do you value most in a teammate?
Mike: Trust. I want my teammates to be genuine and honest with me. If I have teammate who is genuine, I can trust that I am getting who they really are, which in turn means I'm getting the best teammate.

Walsh: How do you determine what the "right thing" to do is?
Mike: It definitely goes back to my value system and the lessons that my parents, coaches, and teammates have instilled in me since I was a kid. Striving to do the right thing in every aspect of life is only going to manifest into good things. Holding myself accountable to my values is how I determine what is right to do.

Walsh: Do you view yourself as a role model for the team?
Mike: Yes, I do view myself as a role model. I always strive to do the right thing and I have the responsibility to do that as a leader on my team. Teammates should be able to look up to their leaders to see what the right thing is and emulate that.

Walsh: What are some strategies that you have that help you to remain undaunted and focused when leading your team?
Mike: I would say focusing on the big picture rather than the little things. Having the confidence that everything is going to work out in the best way and that you can only control the controllables in life. Adversity is always a learning experience and I have to look at what lessons I can carry with me to help us move forward.

Walsh: What is a quote about integrity that has motivated you throughout your athletic career?
Mike: "Never taking anything for granted"- Derek Jeter.

Lehigh University Athletics

Traditions of Excellence: Mike Garzillo #INTEGRITY

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