Keep Climbing: Why Dreamers Win

A Teen’s Letter to Coach Norvell and the Unexpected Power of Believing in Big Dreams

“There’s no way that’s happening!” I thought.

The Unlikely Ask

My 15-year-old son had written to Florida State University head football Coach Mike Norvell, requesting a meet and greet during an upcoming family trip to Florida.

Out of his earshot, I told my wife he was wasting his time.

Why the Odds Were Against Us

There were many reasons why his request would likely be denied—even if the letter was read at all.

• With a roster of new players and several new coaches, Coach Norvell had a packed summer schedule.

• Doak Campbell Stadium and his new office overlooking the practice field were both under construction.

• He had a full slate of FSU Booster Club speeches, visits with 2026 recruits, upcoming media appearances, and NIL deals to consider.

• Norvell is one of the highest-paid coaches in college football—why would he meet my son?

I didn’t want to burst my son’s bubble, but a man who makes big bucks to coach a Power Five program isn’t going to meet with a teenage super fan.

It seemed like one of those big dreams that never actually comes true.

An Unexpected Response from Coach Norvell

Then, six weeks after he sent the letter, an email came from Norvell’s assistant:

“Coach Norvell would like to set up a meeting.”

The Message Behind “Keep Climbing”

There’s a sign in Mike Norvell’s office that reads: Keep Climbing.

My son and I saw it firsthand and heard Norvell explain why that phrase is both his personal and team mantra. It was clear he believes in it—and that a disappointing 2024 season wasn’t going to derail his climb in 2025.

Belief vs. Doubt: What Do You Choose?

How many times do we silence our own big ideas or tell others that theirs are unrealistic?

When someone shares a dream with you—especially one that feels like a stretch—pause before you offer “reality checks.”

Encouraging Others to Dream Bigger

Tame Your Inner Critic

Resist the temptation to say, “That’ll never happen.” Pause and reflect. Could this dream open doors, like my son’s meeting with Coach Norvell?

Respond with Curiosity, Not Skepticism

Instead of dismissing big ideas, ask a thoughtful question or two. As I wrote in The Power of a Simple Question, the right question can propel someone forward.

Make Space for Vision

A few encouraging words can be the difference between action and abandonment. I’m reminded of a post I wrote on Encouragement: The Secret Sauce to Leadership—it’s always relevant.

As Wayne Gretzky once said, “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.”

If you would like your organization to climb higher, message me to set up a time for a call.