Aug. 25, 2004
My trip to the Northwest was really special. I was absolutely thrilled beyond belief to spend two days on stage at the Key Arena in Seattle as part of the Peter Lowe motivational speaking series. Over 11,000 were in attendance listening as I shared concepts and ideas that I've utilized throughout my career.

I've always felt that commitment was a key, a commitment to excellence in everything you do. Have a sense of pride, persevere in everything, have respect for all and handle the tough decisions in life.

It was thrilling to share the stage with the likes of former New York City mayor Rudolph Giuliani and actress Goldie Hawn. These people have made it in life because they've made the commitment. In sports, athletes like Lance Armstrong, Derek Jeter, Michael Phelps and Maria Sharapova have shown why they are champs because of their commitment to excellence.

It was an unbelievable feeling ... not bad for a guy who used to teach the sixth grade in New Jersey! I only wish my mom and dad could have been there to share it with me. They were the true inspiration in my life with their work ethic and pride.

They always encouraged me to live my dream and do the best I could.

I also enjoyed spending time at Safeco Field during my trip to Seattle. What a phenomenal ballpark! I got a chance to catch up with Devil Rays manager Lou Piniella and Mariners pitcher Jamie Moyer, the son-in-law of my buddy, Digger Phelps.

Dick Vitale coached the Detroit Pistons and the University of Detroit in the 1970s before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979 (he's been an ESPN analyst ever since). Send a question for Vitale for possible use on ESPNEWS.