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What does it take to build a telecommunications empire from your garage? Jim Tracy knows firsthand. After his 17-year-old son challenged him to start their own business, Tracy cashed out his retirement accounts and took the ultimate bet on himself and his family. The gamble paid off spectacularly as Legacy Telecommunications grew from two employees to nearly a thousand before Tracy sold to private equity.

But success wasn't handed to Tracy on a silver platter. As a child with a severe stutter, doctors once recommended sending him to a state school for "retarded children." His mother refused, beginning a journey that would prove those doctors profoundly wrong. "I'm not the sharpest tool in the shed," Tracy admits with characteristic humility, "but I refuse to be outworked."

This determination faced its ultimate test when a devastating skiing accident left doctors threatening to amputate his leg. Even after successful surgery, medical professionals told him he'd likely never walk properly again. Tracy's response? Walking 12-15,000 steps daily and completing obstacle courses with his grandchildren.

Beyond personal resilience, Tracy offers profound insights on building winning teams. In an age where American business has largely forgotten mentorship, he emphasizes surrounding yourself with people who are "better, faster, stronger, smarter" while investing in their growth. His practice of writing personalized birthday cards to every employee exemplifies his philosophy that recognition and genuine care create unbreakable company culture.

Tracy's new book "Building Men" (releasing June 3rd) shares character lessons from the 22 mentors who shaped his journey. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or simply facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, Tracy's message resonates: "Don't let go of the dream." At 66, he rejects traditional retirement in favor of what he proudly calls his "big, audacious life."

Subscribe to hear more inspiring stories that go beyond the game and show how principles of perseverance, teamwork, and mentorship create success in business and life.

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The unpredictable spring weather may have just begun, but Rome Free Academy's baseball and softball programs are already heating up the diamond with championship aspirations. In this special Sunday evening edition of Mohawk Valley Sports Watch, we dive deep with both program leaders who share remarkably similar visions: experienced rosters, tough non-conference scheduling, and unwavering belief in their players' abilities.

Baseball coach Evan Howard reveals how his team—featuring 10 seniors and standout sophomores like third-year catcher Dante Sparace—has evolved since nearly upsetting CNS in last year's sectionals. "This team's lineup from one to nine is complete. There's not an easy out," Howard explains, highlighting how his pitching staff now includes dedicated specialists who've embraced their specific roles. The team's mantra "clean your plate" reflects their determination to finish what they start in every game, practice, and playoff series.

First-year softball coach Emily Cowell brings unique perspective as a former RFA player herself, allowing her to connect with her athletes on a deeper level. Taking over an 11-win team that lost just one senior, Cowell describes her inheritance as "a silver platter" with talents like Kennedy Campbell, Lex Thompson, and power-hitter Sophia Tosti leading the charge. After testing themselves against state powerhouse Shenendehowa, Cowell's message to her team resonates: "The only team that's going to beat you is you."

Both programs face the gauntlet of the Tri-Valley League, where teams like Camden (20 wins last year), Whitesboro, New Hartford, Notre Dame and CVA ensure every game is a battle. Yet both coaches embrace this challenge, knowing it prepares their athletes for sectional intensity when May arrives.

Follow these teams' journeys throughout the season as they battle weather delays, compressed schedules, and fierce competition in pursuit of sectional glory. Tune in tomorrow night at 8PM for our new series "Beyond the Game" with special guest Jim Tracy!

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The 2024 Final Four is unlike any we've seen in years—chalk has prevailed, delivering the four #1 seeds to college basketball's biggest stage for the first time since 2008.

Duke, Houston, Florida, and Auburn aren't just top seeds—they represent the pinnacle of college basketball excellence this season. Analytics confirm what our coaching panel discusses: these four programs have separated themselves from the pack. We dive deep into what makes each semifinal matchup so compelling, from Duke's exceptional length and switching defense to Houston's physical toughness and improved shooting; from Florida's clutch performances behind Walter Clayton Jr. to Auburn's resilience personified by Johni Broome.

The debate between Cooper Flagg and Johni Broome for Player of the Year honors takes center stage, with our coaches unanimously crowning Flagg despite Duke's talent-rich roster. Beyond the matchups, we explore how NIL and the transfer portal have fundamentally altered college basketball's landscape, potentially eliminating the Cinderella stories that once defined March Madness. Has college basketball entered an era where only the wealthy programs can compete for championships?

We also touch on the Women's Final Four, where UConn's Paige Bueckers seeks her first championship, and examine Tom Izzo's coaching future as he navigates a changing collegiate landscape that many veteran coaches find challenging.

Whether you're filling out your final bracket or simply appreciating the extraordinary talent on display this weekend, our coaching breakdown provides the insights you need before Saturday's semifinals tip off. Who will cut down the nets on Monday night? Listen now to hear our predictions!

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