COACHING
COACHING
A special thanksto quality people
Fanfare:
Being an educator and coach, I have witnessed the actions of hundreds of coaches over a span of more than 20 years.
I vividly remember the actions of the longtime boys basketball coach at Springfield Local, and observe the current girls basketball coach at Springfield Local Schools that have successfully led their teams.
I am proud to say that these coaches teach, motivate, correct and build self-confidence in the players they have instructed over the years.
The last couple of years, I have watched the boys basketball teams from Springfield and Poland compete in several games.
Their highly successful coaches should be commended on their successful records, but more importantly their manners during games and the treatment of their hard-working players.
I firmly believe that they treat their players with dignity and respect. Unfortunately not all coaches deserve this praise.
Coaches who bully, dictate and even verbally and/or physically abuse their players should be reprimanded by their local school boards and administrators.
How long can abuse be tolerated in high school sports? Quality student/athletes are quitting or transferring through open enrollment to schools that conduct their basketball programs in a more humane manner.
For the great majority of coaches who lead their teams in a positive manner, congratulations for a job well done. You exemplify the true meaning of "coach".
For the few coaches who demean and abuse young athletes, it is time to either change or step down.
Coaching through fear and intimidation is obsolete and cannot be tolerated. Look what happened to the famous basketball coach from Indiana University and the highly successful girls basketball coach from Pickerington, Ohio.
Pat Iudiciani
Poland
FOOTBALL
YSU helped to makelong-lasting memories
Fanfare:
On Nov. 9, my son played in the first Pro Bowl game held at YSU. I'm sure I speak for many parents when I say that the experience these boys encountered that week will be memories they will remember for a lifetime.
Many friendships were made during the week of practice. Boys who were out to beat each other on the playing field during the season were now their teammates.
Boys making friends with others from all walks of life and different races. What I saw during the week of practice and during the game was something I was proud to be part of.
All of this we owe to the many men and women who organized the event and to YSU for making it possible.
These football players and cheerleaders were able to experience being on a college field at such young ages, something many may never experience again.
Thanks again to everyone who made this event possible and hopefully it will continue for years to come.
Donna Lopez
Poland