Bruce Brockbank, the head coach of men’s golf at Brigham Young University, addressed students in a devotional on July 14 before his retirement about the power of sharing light.
Coach Brockbank began with a quote by President Reese that said how remarkable the students are on BYU’s campus and how they reflect the light of Jesus Christ. The quote also mentioned making the semester memorable and impactful.
Brockbank invited students to follow President Reese’s example to share in the light and make the semester meaningful.
“It’s already here among you, and each of us has the opportunity to contribute to it, to lift others and to reflect the light of Jesus Christ in our own way,” Brockbank said.
He shared the scripture 3 Nephi 18:24 focusing on the phrase, “Therefore, hold up your light that it may shine unto the world.”
Brockbank then invited students to share their light by living the simple Christlike fundamentals.
“We all recognize that through those steady, consistent efforts, our light grows and allows us to bless the lives of others,” Brockbank said.
Being a part of BYU for more than 40 years has allowed Brockbank to travel around the country and visit many colleges, but he explained that no other place is quite like BYU.
“That’s what makes this place special. I’ve been the recipient of that so many times,” Brockbank said. “It’s the light that each of you bring and the way you lift one another.”
Brockbank shared that he was introduced to golf in the early 1970s. He had the opportunity to be around BYU golfers who influenced him with “their light and goodness.” His story went through his time on the mission to being at BYU as a freshman on the golf team to eventually becoming the head coach of men’s golf after years of assisting. He found strength through devoting time to strengthening his testimony.
Working with student athletes has been one of Brockbank’s favorite parts of being at BYU.
“Each [student athlete] arrives with his own story, his own background and his own strengths and challenges. Each one of them has blessed my life,” Brockbank said.
Brockbank shared that when students, specifically student athletes, come to BYU they are becoming something greater than just themselves.
“They learn to value the university’s mission and take pride in representing an institution built upon excellence, faith and purpose,” Brockbank said.
As a former bishop for BYU freshman, Brockbank said that it had its fair share of challenges and miracles. But, he saw students step-up in their callings and care for others in their ward.
“I strongly encourage you to be actively involved in your wards and make new friends along the way,” Brockbank said. “The people you serve alongside and come to love often become some of life’s greatest blessings.”
Brockbank’s message wrapped up with an invitation to students.
“Cherish this opportunity — learn all you can and grow spiritually. But don’t stop there. Be someone who influences others for good,” Brockbank said. “Be someone who lifts, encourages and strengthens those around you.”
His last remarks were a reminder that the Savior is the source of all light and hope. Brockbank shared that when one shares that light they can become an instrument in the Lord’s hands.