An influential figure in American football, Sean McDermott, stresses to his players the value of tenacity and fortitude. He grew up playing on a small-town high school team, so he knows firsthand how important it is to have confidence in oneself in the face of adversity.

Hard work and dedication are the most important things to McDermott. These attributes, in his opinion, are necessary for success both on and off the field. McDermott urges his players to cultivate a resilient mindset that flourishes in the face of hardship, much like a gardener tending to plants in challenging circumstances. This "underdog mentality" entails playing each game with tenacity and a resolute faith in one's own skills.

Additionally, McDermott is adamant that toughness is a necessary quality for any player or team hoping to succeed. It involves more than just physical strength; it also involves mental toughness and the capacity to persevere in the face of adversity. This viewpoint is similar to how a ship endures choppy waters; real progress can only be achieved by persevering in the face of adversity.

By encouraging these principles, McDermott hopes to establish a setting where athletes can develop personally in addition to their skill set. His strategy emphasizes the notion that conquering obstacles rather than avoiding them is frequently the path to success.