The summer heat beats down on south Texas like no other. The combination of humidity and heat drenched players and coaches alike. You'd never see D.W. Rutledge slow down, despite the intense environmental conditions. There was an intensity and purpose that negated whatever physical limitations would normally hinder a man. His drive was to build men from boys, utilizing football as a tool to mentor and develop his players into something more than just an athlete. He wanted to make men that would lead by example in their studies, their character and in reaching their potential.As Aristotle stated, "You are what you continually do, therefore excellence is not an act, but a habit." D.W. made sure to instill into the hearts and minds of his players that they were to be men of integrity and character first and foremost. His motto was simple.

"Do right, and do your best."

He surmised that if you did those two things that winning would take care of itself. It seems too good to be true, doesn't it? But the brilliance is in its simplicity. If you did what was right, you'd go to class and study. If you did what was right, you'd be in the weight room or in the film room taking care of your responsibilities to the team. If you did your best you wouldn't take plays off. If you did your best, everyone would know what to expect from you.

Through his coaching, he led the Rockets of Judson High School to several state championships and numerous playoff appearances over his sixteen-year career. More importantly, though, he was able to influence the lives of hundreds of young men in a positive way. Teaching them to be role models, leaders, and men of character. Winning football games was not important, building the next generation of men was.Read more stories of American Grit here:

GEORGE S. PATTON: OLYMPIAN

CLINTON ROMESHA: A HUMBLE HERO

LUKE HOLLER: A SMILE THAT REFUSED TO END