Hall of Fame shortstop gives inspiring speech

Few people match the defensive play of former St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Ozzie Smith. The Hall of Famer wowed fans during his career with diving catches, quickness and iconic back flip.

Last week Smith spoke at Southeast Missouri State University as part of the university's speaker series. The talk held at the Show Me Center was built on the Hall of Famer's illustrious career.

Smith was not the biggest or strongest athlete. Still, hard work and dedication led him to becoming a 15-time winner of the Gold Glove. While defense was his calling card, Smith collected 2,460 hits over 19 seasons.

Known as the Wizard, Smith connected his baseball life to that of the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz." What most moved us was his insight on hard work and being the best you can be.

"I sincerely believe that there is nothing truly great in any man or woman except their character," Smith said.

He added that one should not settle for the status quo, but work to improve.

"Absolutely nothing is good enough if it can be better, and better is never good enough if it can be made best," Smith told the crowd.

The question-and-answer session following the talk added interesting tidbits on Smith's career and today's baseball stories. He called Mike Trout of the Angels the best player in the game. For the Cardinals, he said the work ethic of Matt Carpenter and Yadier Molina was impressive.

Thanks to Ozzie for sharing his story with the students and members of the community who attended. It's a story worth telling, and the message of hard work, dedication and perseverance transcends sports.