SEATTLE, Wash. — “Surround yourself with dream-makers and eliminate dream-killers” were the words of wisdom Jim “The Rookie” Morris imparted on attendees of the Wednesday opening general session at NPMA PestWorld, sponsored by Dow AgroSciences.
After suffering arm injuries that halted a promising career as a Major League Baseball pitcher, Morris became a science teacher and baseball coach on the high school level. Eleven years later he earned a spot on a Major League Baseball roster. Morris’ memoir, The Rookie, was made into a major motion picture with actor Dennis Quaid portraying Morris.
Surrounding oneself with dream-enablers and eliminating dream-enablers has been a constant theme throughout Morris’ life. For example, while Morris was in college his grandfather, whom he was extremely close to, had passed away. His coach at the time, took great care in handling the situation, from breaking the news to Morris to working with the college to give him time to assist the family with arrangements. Other dream-makers were his baseball team who encouraged Morris to chase his dream of becoming a Major League Baseball player.
Conversely, Morris has eliminated dream-killers and encouraged his players to do so as well. While he was teaching and coaching, for example, Morris was dismayed that the high school’s guidance counselor and principal (at the time) talked negatively about students and had low expectations for them. They believed most of the students were destined to work in the oil fields of Texas. Morris encouraged them to chase their dreams of higher education and social advancement, and he says the vast majority of his players went on to college.