Mark Pope Reflects on Christmas Traditions and the Power of Gratitude
This Christmas marks a unique milestone for Mark Pope, as he and his family enjoy their first holiday season in Lexington since he became Kentucky’s head coach. Pope’s deep appreciation for his role and his passion for the Kentucky basketball program shine through in everything he does—even in unexpected moments, like answering a lighthearted question about his gift-wrapping skills during his recent call-in show.
When asked to rate his gift-wrapping abilities, Pope couldn’t resist connecting the question to his team’s recent struggles, particularly the disappointing loss to Ohio State in the CBS Sports Classic.
“Oh, man,” Pope began with a sigh. “If we’re talking about the Ohio State game, I’d rank my gift-wrapping skills as an F. Man, it pained me to leave Big Blue Nation with that gift. That was not what we intended.”
However, when it comes to actual gift-wrapping, Pope said his family would likely give him high marks—an “A” for effort, even if he uses a bit too much tape. The Pope family Christmas traditions include opening presents together on Christmas Eve, a quiet evening that sometimes extends to hosting players unable to travel home for the holiday.
“We’ll all spend Christmas Eve together,” Pope shared. “We’ll have a traditional dinner, read the Christmas story from Luke Chapter 2, share laughs, play some games, and open one gift before sending everyone off to bed.”
A Family-Focused Celebration
This year, three of Pope’s four daughters will be home for Christmas, with the exception of Avery, who is currently on a mission in El Salvador. For Pope, the holidays are an opportunity to create a warm, inclusive environment—not just for his family but also for any players who can’t return to their own homes.
“Occasionally, when things work out, we’ll have some of the guys over who couldn’t make it home,” Pope said. “It’s a chance to bring everyone together, even for a little while, and celebrate the season.”
The Practice of Gratitude
Gratitude is a recurring theme in Pope’s life and leadership. He frequently emphasizes its importance, both on and off the court. The Wildcats regularly hold “gratitude circles” where players share what they’re thankful for—a practice Pope also incorporates into his personal life through journaling, prayer, and dinner table conversations with his family.
“I’m such a believer in gratitude,” Pope said. “You’ve heard me say this over and over, but you can’t be happier than you are grateful. I believe that with all my heart. An entitled life leads to frustration and misery, but a grateful life leads to joy. It just does.”
Pope practices this belief daily, encouraging others to do the same. “We keep gratitude journals and write down three things we’re grateful for each night before bed. At dinner, we go around the table and share what we’re thankful for. It doesn’t have to be every day, but even doing it once a week or once a month can make a big difference.”
For Pope, gratitude is about finding joy even in life’s challenges. “There’s so much to be grateful for if we just take the time to see it. Life isn’t always easy, but even in the middle of a storm, you can find incredible things to appreciate—from the simplest joys to the most complex blessings.”
A Holiday Challenge for Big Blue Nation
As the holiday season continues, Pope encourages fans to embrace gratitude during their own celebrations. “At your Christmas dinner, try holding a gratitude circle,” he suggested. “Ask everyone to share something they’re thankful for. It might feel a little uncomfortable at first, but it’s worth it. You’ll be amazed by what people say and how it brings everyone closer together.”
For Pope, the act of practicing gratitude is more than a ritual—it’s a source of strength and joy, a mindset he hopes will resonate with his team, his family, and the Kentucky faithful during this season of giving and beyond.