Growing Up Colt

1. Prepare the Child for the Path, Not the Path for the Child

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it.

Parental philosophy. Brad McCoy's core parenting principle, inspired by Proverbs 22:6, was to equip his children with the skills and character needed to navigate life's challenges, rather than trying to remove obstacles for them. This meant teaching them resilience, hard work, goal-setting, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. He contrasted this with "bulldozer parents" who smooth the road for their kids, hindering their development.

Teaching life lessons. Preparing children for the path involves instilling discipline and high expectations. Brad believed parents must teach kids how to work and study hard, understand the value of setting and achieving goals, and develop the resilience to overcome difficulties. This approach, while sometimes perceived as tough, was seen as essential for building strong, capable individuals ready for the real world.

Long-term vision. The goal was not just immediate comfort but long-term preparedness. By not shielding Colt and his brothers from difficulty or demanding effort, Brad and Debra aimed to raise young men who could stand on their own two feet and handle whatever life threw at them. This foundational principle guided their parenting decisions from childhood through college and beyond.

2. Discipline, Applied with Love, Shapes Character

Discipline is teaching. It’s correcting. It’s respect. It’s all those things.

Intentional correction. Brad and Debra viewed discipline not as punishment for punishment's sake, but as a necessary tool for teaching values and acceptable behavior. They believed in consistent, loving correction, including spanking when warranted, to establish clear boundaries and consequences for willful disobedience. This approach aimed to impart an understanding of God's love and justice.

Learning respect. Discipline was used to teach respect for elders, for others (even those who were annoying), and for oneself. Colt learned early that disrespect had consequences, whether it was a spanking at home or a public apology at school. These moments, though difficult at the time, were seen as crucial "teachable moments" that shaped his attitude and behavior.

Building self-control. The consistent application of discipline helped Colt develop self-control and understand expectations. While he wasn't a defiant child, testing boundaries was natural, and the clear responses from his parents helped him learn quickly. This early foundation in discipline contributed to his ability to navigate the pressures and temptations of high school and college.

3. Hard Work and Preparation Are the Foundation for Success

You will have to flat-out work harder to be better than them.

Effort is the difference-maker. Recognizing Colt's athletic talent, Brad emphasized that ability alone wasn't enough to reach the highest levels of competition. He constantly stressed that Colt would need to work harder than others, especially those who might be bigger, stronger, or faster, to achieve his goals. This meant extra practice, dedicated weight training, and relentless preparation.

Leading by example. Colt's commitment to hard work, such as practicing basketball in freezing weather or waking up early for weightlifting, inspired his teammates. His dedication wasn't just about personal improvement; it set a standard for the entire team. This work ethic, ingrained from childhood chores on the ranch, became a defining characteristic of his athletic career.

Preparation is key. Whether it was studying opponents' tendencies, reviewing playbooks, or organizing summer practices, Colt understood that preparation was non-negotiable. His father's coaching background instilled in him the importance of the "Xs and Os" and being mentally ready. This meticulous preparation gave him confidence and an edge in competition.

4. Faith Provides an Unshakable Foundation and Guidance

God is in control of my life, and I know that if nothing else, I am standing on the Rock.

Central priority. Faith in Jesus Christ was the most important value in the McCoy household, prioritized above family and football. Church attendance, Bible reading, and prayer were central to their lives, providing a moral compass and spiritual strength. This foundation was intentionally built from a young age.

Trust in God's plan. Colt learned to trust in God's plan, even when faced with disappointment or uncertainty. His post-game interview after the BCS Championship loss, where he spoke of God's control and standing on the Rock (Isaiah 26:4), became a powerful testament to his faith. This public declaration, unplanned in the moment, resonated with millions.

Spiritual accountability. As he navigated the temptations of college life and fame, Colt relied on his faith and sought accountability from friends and mentors. Attending church and participating in FCA provided a supportive community that helped him stay grounded and make choices aligned with his beliefs, resisting pressures related to partying, alcohol, and relationships.

5. True Leadership Comes Through Serving Others

If you wanted to be a leader, you had to be a servant first.

Biblical principle. Brad McCoy taught Colt the biblical truth that leadership is rooted in service. This principle was demonstrated through family involvement in church activities, helping widows, and visiting nursing homes. These experiences, initially met with resistance, instilled a servant attitude.

Leading by example. Colt's leadership on the football field wasn't characterized by yelling or bravado, but by his work ethic, preparation, and genuine care for his teammates. College coaches recognized this quiet influence, noting how his teammates wanted to play hard for him. His willingness to organize summer practices and take responsibility for the team's readiness exemplified this servant leadership.

Service beyond self. As Colt's platform grew, he embraced opportunities to serve others, particularly sick children. Visiting hospitals became a priority, reminding him of his blessings and providing perspective. This commitment to service, instilled by his parents, became a significant part of his identity and purpose beyond football.

6. Navigating Fame and Temptation Requires Strong Boundaries

You’re living in a glass house.

Loss of anonymity. Becoming the starting quarterback at the University of Texas brought instant fame and the loss of privacy. Colt went from being an ordinary student to a public figure constantly under scrutiny, facing challenges like unwanted attention, requests for autographs, and invasive behavior from fans. This required learning to manage public interaction and maintain composure.

Resisting temptation. The high-profile position also brought significant temptations, particularly related to relationships and partying. Colt consciously chose to maintain the boundaries he had established in high school, avoiding alcohol and premarital sex, despite peer pressure and direct propositions. He relied on his faith, prayer, and the support of his family and friends to stay strong.

Maintaining identity. Despite the external pressures and attention, Colt remained committed to his core values and identity. He didn't want fame to change who he was or affect his relationships. His parents' guidance on staying humble and remembering his roots helped him navigate the complexities of being a celebrity athlete while staying true to himself.

7. Adversity and Disappointment Build Resilience

You’re going to get through this. Everyone goes through these things. You’ll come out stronger.

Learning from loss. Colt's first significant football loss in the 2A state championship game after a 50-game winning streak was a devastating experience. His father helped him process this disappointment, framing it as a valuable learning opportunity that would prepare him for future setbacks. This moment taught him how to handle losing with grace and self-reflection.

Overcoming setbacks. Throughout his college career, Colt faced various forms of adversity, including injuries, inconsistent team performance, and intense public criticism. These challenges tested his resolve and forced him to grow. His ability to bounce back, refocus, and continue leading the team demonstrated the resilience instilled by his upbringing.

Finding perspective. The most profound lesson in handling disappointment came after his injury in the BCS Championship game. Initially questioning God, Colt gained perspective by reflecting on the struggles of others, like the children in Peru or those in the hospital. This experience deepened his faith and taught him that life's true challenges extend far beyond the football field.

8. Family and Relationships Offer Essential Support

Some folks come into your life, pass through, and move on. Colt McCoy is one who stays with you forever—not for what he’s done, but for who he is.

Unconditional love. Colt's family, particularly his parents, provided a constant source of unconditional love and support. They were present at games, offered guidance, and helped him navigate the pressures of his career. Their belief in him, regardless of wins or losses, was a crucial anchor.

Accountability and guidance. His parents and grandparents actively participated in his life, offering advice on everything from handling fame to making important life decisions. They held him accountable to his values and provided a safe space for him to process challenges and emotions. This close-knit family structure was a vital support system.

Building strong bonds. Colt prioritized building strong relationships with his teammates, friends, and mentors. These connections provided camaraderie, accountability, and a sense of belonging. Living with teammates and later with the Anderson family created supportive environments that helped him stay grounded and focused amidst the demands of college football.

9. Commitment Means Finishing What You Start

You always finish what you start. You never do something halfway, and you never quit until you’ve finished.

Following through. This principle, taught early through experiences like the steer riding contest, emphasized the importance of honoring commitments, even when scared or facing difficulty. Colt learned that once he committed to something, he was expected to see it through, regardless of the challenges.

Dedication to goals. Colt's commitment to his goals, such as becoming a college quarterback and later playing in the NFL, required sustained effort and perseverance. He didn't just talk about his dreams; he put in the work, making sacrifices like giving up soft drinks or staying in on weekends to prioritize training and rest.

Honoring pledges. The story of his parents promising him a truck if he earned a scholarship highlights the value placed on keeping commitments within the family. Colt remembered the promise, and his parents honored it, reinforcing the importance of following through on one's word. This principle extended to his commitments on the field and in his personal life.

10. Finding Purpose Beyond the Game

It’s not about what I did for these kids but what they did for me.

Beyond the scoreboard. While football was a central part of his life, Colt learned that his purpose extended beyond athletic achievement. His parents instilled in him the importance of using his platform for good and serving others, particularly those less fortunate. This perspective helped him maintain balance and humility.

Impact of service. Missions trips to Peru and visits to children's hospitals profoundly impacted Colt, shifting his focus from personal success to the needs of others. Witnessing poverty and suffering gave him a deeper appreciation for his blessings and reinforced the value of using his time and influence to make a difference in the lives of others.

Lasting legacy. Colt's desire to protect his name, not just for himself but for the children named after him, reflects a sense of responsibility and a commitment to living a life of integrity. He understood that his actions and character would have a lasting impact beyond his football career, motivating him to be a positive role model.

Last updated: June 27, 2025