“Poor build. Very skinny and narrow…lacks physical stature and strength…lacks mobility…lacks a strong arm…can’t drive a ball down the field.”

These are the negatives that New England Patriot talent scouts noted about Tom Brady—the greatest Quarterback in U.S. history—prior to the 2000 NFL Draft.

It was an unflattering snapshot, at least in physical terms, and Brady was overlooked for six rounds until the Patriots picked him as the 199th draftee.

It almost didn’t happen for Tom Brady.

But the Patriots had missed the most important observations in their own report—the heart of the man.

It read:

“…Very poised and composed. Smart and alert. Can read coverages. Good accuracy and touch. Produces in big spots and big games…Team leader.”

Tom Brady went on to play football for two decades, winning the Super Bowl seven times and was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) for five of them.

A true champion.

Yet the Patriots almost missed him at the 2000 NFL Draft, along with the many other football coaches and teams.

As one coach said, “We didn’t open up his chest and look at his heart. We didn’t look at that—I don’t know if anybody did.”

When asked about the secret to his success on the football field, Tom Brady simply replied: “the ability to execute under pressure.”

I was reminded last night how important this quality is in high stakes competition—whether in sport, business or politics.

To be able to deliver in big spots and big games.

Last night, I took Ruth and the kids to watch the Socceroos play Japan in the World Cup qualifier at Optus Stadium.

It was a slow match, with Japan dominating possession for most of the time.

I thought it was going to be long drive back to Mandurah.

But then the big moment came in the final minute of the match.

An opportunity presented itself and Socceroo left back, Aziz Behich, sent a screamer home to win the match 1-0.

Australia delivered under pressure, and we are off to the 2026 World Cup.

Right now, the Liberal Party is under pressure.

People have written us off. We lack strength in numbers. 

People question our ability to drive the football down the field.

They don’t think we can deliver at the next election.

But watch this space.

We need to remain composed. We need to be smart and alert.

Read the play. Be accurate. Lead.

Stick with us. Together we can get this done.