Over the years, I have spent countless hours watching the NCAA basketball tournament. I have seen the joy on the face of winning teams and the look of sorrow when a team knows the hope of winning is gone. I have seen the countless interviews that players have to do, even though I am sure they don't want to. Through all the cheers and tears, the tournament has taught me some pretty important life lessons

1. Hard work and dedication is important.

Players don't become a member of Division l athletics by luck. They put in countless hours in the gym, miss social events and have to keep up in school work. Having a sense of dedication is the only way to juggle it all.

2. Teamwork really does make the dream work.

No one person can make it by themselves; they need to work together to make the tournament. It's better to win as team than lose by yourself.

3. Leadership is necessary.

There is always at least one person that stands up and makes the decisions during crucial points of games. These actions can make or break a team.

4. It's OK to show emotion.

It does not matter if it's a tough loss, a big play or winning it all, emotions fly during the tournament.

5. Professionalism is just as relevant in sports as it is other jobs.

With all the fun that goes along with the tournament, the players have to sit through interviews on and off the court. There are probably a million things players would rather do after a big win than sit in a room full of cameras and questions. However, the players know it comes with being a Division l athlete. They show the younger audience that professionalism is important in every job.