When Steve Kerr was in high school, he was honored at a Southern California basketball banquet, a rare occasion for the sharp-shooting but largely forgettable prep player. He attended with his mother.

The guest speaker was a tall, distinguished man whose intelligence and values shone through as he spoke to the audience about family and education and the values behind basketball.

Now that, Ann Kerr leaned over to tell her son, is the kind of coach I would love for you to play for.

Neither of them had an inkling at the time, but Kerr would, indeed, play for Lute Olson.

Olson, then coach at the University of Arizona, not only proved Ann Kerrs instincts correct in that he helped shape the course of her third-born, but he also provided a home and comfort to Steve when unimaginable tragedy shook the Kerr family. No mother could have predicted that.

Olson died in August at age 85 but is never far from Kerrs thoughts. On Tuesday, the Warriors head coach will honor Olson at the Game Changer awards. The annual event by Coaching Corps, a nonprofit that trains and supports youth coaches in underserved communities, will be held virtually this year.

I suppose everyone has these serendipitous meetings with people who change their lives, Kerr said, but this happened to be a really dramatic one. He completely changed the course of my entire life.

Kerr registered Olsons impressiveness at the banquet, but it wasnt until a few months later that Olson noticed Kerr. Olson had left Iowa to take the Arizona job, a program in disarray that went 4-24 the season before he got there.

Olson needed bodies and scrambled to find them; at a summer league tournament he became intrigued by a shooter nailing outside shots. Kerr had only one other scholarship offer from Cal State Fullerton and was contemplating trying to walk on at UC Santa Barbara. But Olson told the 18-year-old that he was interested.

But he was off recruiting and there were no cell phones, and I didnt hear from him, so I felt like I had to accept Fullerton, Kerr said.

His father, Malcolm, asked him where he really wanted to go. And when Kerr said Arizona, Malcolm followed up to see whether Olson was really interested. He was, Kerr was offered a scholarship and had to make the awkward call to decline Fullerton.

Sure, his mothers words about Olson resonated, but so did the allure of leaving Southern California, of playing in what was then the Pac-10 Conference. His future, it seemed, was set.

It was all kind of perfect, Kerr said.

What: Annual event and fundraiser for the Oakland-based nonprofit, whose mission is to train and place coaches in underserved communities.

When: Tuesday 6 p.m.

Where: This year's virtual event will livestream on YouTube. It will also air on NBC Sports Bay Area at a later date.

Who: Warriors head coach Steve Kerr will honor his college basketball coach, Lute Olson. Giants coach Alyssa Nakken will honor her travel softball coach, Gabe Abelia. San Diego-based soccer coach Laura Marquez will be presented with the Coach of the Year award.

That summer, he went to Beirut with his family, where his father was teaching at the American University. At the end of the summer, Kerr was to fly back to the United States and begin college. Civil war was raging in Lebanon, the embassy in Beirut had recently been bombed, and when Kerr had to leave the airport was closed and his options for getting out of the country became a dangerous ordeal. He was driven through Syria to Jordan, where he finally caught a flight and headed to Tucson.

A few months later, weeks into his first college basketball season, Kerr was awakened in the middle of the night by a call from a family friend. His father had been assassinated in his office building.

The tragedy was worldwide news. An Arizona booster heard it on the radio late that night and called an assistant coach, who went to Kerrs dorm room and took him to the Olsons house. The story has been oft told of how Kerr, suffering from shock and half a world away from any of his family, was cared for by Lute and his wife, Bobbi. He slept on their couch. They fed him.

I had only known him a couple of months, Kerr said, but he felt a responsibility to look after me.

Kerr told The Chronicle last summer that he began regularly stopping by Olsons office and even napping on his couch.

He just kept everything as normal as possible and allowed me to play, practice and move on with my routine, which was important, Kerr said. You have to sort of fall into a routine when you suffer a loss like that. Youve got to find a way to just get through the day.

Kerr got through the days, and the months, and eventually the years, helping to turn Arizona into a postseason staple and becoming one of the most popular players in the program.

Along the way, Kerr said, Olson became a kind of father figure.

He was definitely the most influential person in my life outside of my family, Kerr said.

They kind of adopted him, said Margot Kerr, Steve Kerrs wife, who had begun dating her future husband when they were sophomores. The whole team kind of sheltered him.

The Olsons created a family atmosphere that would last throughout Olsons tenure at Arizona. Bobbi, who died of ovarian cancer in 2001, was instrumental in that structure.

Pancake breakfasts, gatherings at their house, Margot said. None of the players were from Arizona, so it really became their family.

Kerr has used those lessons learned from Olson to try to create a similar feeling on the Warriors. Though the NBA is vastly different from college, he has tried to replicate the same sensibility.

In the NBA it has to be built differently, but the thinking is, Can we build something special? Something that people love to be part of? And how do we do that? Kerr said. I recognized the power of what Lute built.

Its no coincidence that in building his team, Kerr has consistently relied on Arizona alumni, from former player Andre Iguodala to former assistant Luke Walton to assistant coach Bruce Fraser.

Andre and I used to talk about how like-minded we were in the way we saw the game, Kerr said. The way he taught fundamentals. An emphasis on detail. If you play for Lute you understand the game at a level you maybe otherwise wouldnt have. Maybe that sounds arrogant, but it comes from the detail we saw in Coach Olson, the things that became ingrained, watching the amazing foundation he built.

Kerr, of course, went on to an amazing career and played for some of the top coaches in the game. But the bond with Olson remained, through his and Margots wedding, the births of their children, dinners on the road, Kerrs introductory news conference with the Warriors. Olson followed his former player closely, and the coach whose program was nicknamed Guard U particularly loved Kerrs dazzling backcourt of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

A year ago, before the NBA shut down, the Warriors played a game in Phoenix. Kerr and Fraser used the trip as an opportunity to drive down to Tucson to see Olson, who was doing poorly after suffering a stroke.

We had a feeling that might be the last time we would see him, Kerr said.

A few months later, Olson died. But his influence remains forever.

Ann Killion is a San Francisco Chronicle columnist. Email: akillion@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @annkillion

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Warriors Steve Kerr recalls meeting with Lute Olson that changed his life - San Francisco Chronicle

Details Texas Tech Athletic Communications Basketball 17 February 2021

Due to continuing inclement weather, the Texas Tech at TCU men's basketball game scheduled for Thursday has been postponed. The Big 12 made the announcement on Wednesday morning along with the postponement of the Texas at Oklahoma game.

Additional information will be released when available.

The Red Raiders (14-6, 6-5 Big 12) are now scheduled to return to action against Kansas at 1 p.m. on Saturday in Lawrence, Kansas before playing at Oklahoma State on Monday in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The team now has postponements remaining to be played against Baylor, Iowa State and two against TCU. Texas Tech is scheduled to host Texas at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the United Supermarkets Arena, while the Phillips 66 Big 12 Championship is from March 10-13 in Kansas City.

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Inclement Weather Results in Another Postponment for Texas Tech and TCU - BCSNN - Best College Sports News Network

The Face of Youth Life Coaching Nick Petro | Live MPWRD

As a dual college athlete himself, Nick brings a level of energy and motivation that connects with youth of today. With a background serving schools, youth organizations, and nonprofits, it was always clear that his passion was with impacting youth. As a youth pastor creating meaningful, entertaining experiences for youth, Nick had provided a unique place for youth in the organization to feel known, connected, and have fun.

Parents began asking Nick for time with their kids in additional settings, as they noticed changes in their kids from being part of his groups. As parents continued to ask Nick to work with their kids, the Nick Petro Coaching Company was formed in order to connect more personally with youth to enact change.

Find your purpose, live on passion, live life with powerful communication are words that Nick lives by. This motto fueled his book, The 7 Pillars that Bridge Communication, which he wrote in order to provide ways for parents to connect with their kids and work through the barriers that arise between adolescents and parents. This workbook is also utilized by the youth life coaches Nick trains across the world to more effectively coach the youth with proven methodologies and proven results.

He has spoken to more than 50,000 students nationwide, inspiring them to find the things for which they can live passionately and on purpose. One of the students he worked with experienced such a transformation that Disney+ noticed and picked up her story. After being around Coach Nick, a fire was ignited in Daniella. On a school trip to Tijuana, she saw the poverty that the local residents, who she spent time with, lived in. Daniella went on to raise enough money to fund building a home in Tijuana. She did this again, which is when Disney+ heard about her. Dynamic Daniella was featured as a comic book character through the Marvel Superhero Project. Nick seeks to bring more youth to finding their places of purpose in life to create more superheroes.

From this passion, Nick co-founded Live MPWRD in order to create a better tomorrow for the next generation. By providing an experience-based, effective coaching curriculum to train more future youth life coaches, Live MPWRD is providing a change that is missing from current leadership for students. Nick and Live MPWRD are working to empower youth to live life in passion, on purpose, to create positive change through the MPWRD Youth Life Coaches.

The more coaches we can train, the bigger lasting impact we can have for the next generation.

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Faces of North County 2021 | Youth Life Coaching - Coast News

AP Published 6:39 p.m. ET Jan. 29, 2021 | Updated 6:43 p.m. ET Jan. 29, 2021

Reaction from the sports world to the death of former Temple basketball coach John Chaney:

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Coach Chaney was like a father to me. He taught not just me, but all of his players more than just how to succeed in basketball. He taught us life lessons to make us better individuals off the court. I owe so much to him. He made me the man I am today. Aaron McKie, former Temple star and current coach.

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He's probably been the one person that I consistently talked to. That watched the games, that gave insight. He's one that I truly love. He gave me all that I had and I didn't have to ask for it. He knew. He knew what I needed when I started coaching. He just fostered that and allowed me to grow and allowed me to make mistakes and was there to pick me up when things weren't working out as I thought they should. Everybody in their lives, whether they're in coaching, outside of coaching, or whatever profession, needs a person like coach Chaney in their life. South Carolina coach and former Temple coach (2000-2008) Dawn Staley.

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Coach Chaneys ability to coach hard, yet build trust and teach life lessons, is unmatched in our profession, in my opinion. Although we were competitors, its what I admired most about him. Coach Chaney and I fought every game we competed as everyone knows, sometimes literally but in the end, he was my friend. Throughout my career, we would talk about basketball and life. I will miss those talks and I will my friend. Rest in peace, Coach! Kentucky coach John Calipari.

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We have lost a true Philadelphia jewel. Coach Chaneys enormous impact on our game has been felt across the nation and the respect for him reflects that. He has been an inspiration to players and coaches for generations. Villanova coach Jay Wright.

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I'm just grateful for my time with him. All those years I coached against him, many of those obviously resulted in a not-successful outcome. He won many, many games. The people that he touched and the lives that he influenced; I think that's what's so great about the profession that we have. John Chaney impacted all of these players that he had and then he became their friend. They see him in a totally different light and appreciate him even more than when they played for him." former Penn coach and Chaney's successor, Fran Dunphy.

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"RIP Coach John Chaney! A true legend in coaching. I learned so much about coaching & life from you. I will always be grateful my time at Temple and our friendship." former Temple football coach (1983-1988) and current Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Bruce Arians.

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More AP college basketball: https://apnews.com/Collegebasketball and https://twitter.com/AP_Top25

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Reaction to the death of Hall of Fame coach John Chaney - USA TODAY

As the Kernels attempted to maintain a second-half lead against Brandon Valley on Jan. 19, Neuendorf turned to his assistants and asked a question about personnel as they looked to stop Lynx standout Jackson Hilton. They responded, and moments later, a substitution was made.

The coaching staff has been reshaped during the last two seasons and it now features a former head coach that has seen every scenario imaginable and a young assistant that aspires to be a head coach in the future.

Longtime Mitchell girls coach Wes Morgan stepped down from his post following the season in 2019 essentially trading places with current girls coach Cole Knippling citing a desire to coach his son Steele, who is now a sophomore. Meanwhile, Ryker Kreutzfeldt was hired days before Neuendorfs first season. He was a former Kernel, but unknown, unproven and still a student at Dakota Wesleyan University.

Morgan, the 1987 South Dakota Gatorade Player of the Year, has mentored standout post players Caden Hinker and Zane Alm, who total more than half of the points this season. Kreutzfeldt has also found a niche as the scouting guru for the Kernels, helping devise game plans and providing tendencies for each opposing player.

With the input from his two top assistants, Neuendorf is able to call offensive sets and adjust his defense accordingly, which has been a key to Mitchells 10-1 start.

I dont have all the answers and I dont pretend to, Neuendorf said. I like to have my assistants be part of where were going and give their advice. I might not always take it, but more often than not, if they have something Ill take it and use it. I want them to have a voice, I dont want them to just sit there.

Morgan has been blunt about his desire to shift from girls coach to help his son and was easier when Steele requested the move.

For Neuendorf, the move seemed logical. Morgan had plenty of success in 11 seasons with the girls team, which included six state tournament appearances, three trips to the finals and a state championship in 2012. He was also a standout player for DWU, scoring 1,429 points and was named all-conference twice.

But Morgan knew his new charges did not seem as enthralled with his presence. It took some time for them to get used to his style, but eventually the Kernel post players began to believe in his guidance.

Alm and Hinker have connected on 57.8% of shots in the paint during the last two seasons. While both players have put significant effort into improving during time with Mitchell and in AAU basketball, Morgan has helped Alm develop a jump hook that has become his signature shot. Alm went from scoring 15 points in 15 games the year prior to Morgans arrival, to averaging 16.2 points per game this year.

If you put the time in with the kids, they start trusting you, knowing who you are and knowing that youre not just a flash in the pan, said Morgan, who was roomates with Alms father Corey at DWU. When you go from a girls coach to a boys coach, the stigma is that youre a girls coach. In the end, you know basketball. When you know basketball, they start seeing where youre at and what you know. After a while, the stuff you tell them starts to stick.

Mitchell assistant coaches Wes Morgan, right, and Ryker Kreutzfeldt watch as head coach Todd Neuendorf calls a defense during a game against Brandon Valley on Jan. 19 at the Corn Palace. (Matt Gade / Republic)

Morgan often views the game similar to Neuendorf, but frequently offers tips or suggestions when warranted. After more than a decade of running every aspect of his program, Morgan sometimes misses developing game and practice plans, but he also enjoys not worrying about the administrative work, parental complaints and responsibilities that come with being a head coach.

When I came on, (Neuendorf) said, I want to know what you think. If theres a problem, deal with it, Morgan said. Im not here just to be a fixture on the bench and be the JV coach. He wants me to help get this team better. He gives me a lot of input.

Adding a former head coach to the staff may have been a no-brainer, but the addition of a college senior was a gamble.

Kreutzfeldt had never met Neuendorf when he wandered into his classroom a week before the start of the 2017-2018 season. He wanted to learn how to be a coach and figured he would essentially be a cheerleader, handling odd jobs for freshman coach Pat Larson.

But the encounter was familiar for Neuendorf. As a junior at Northern State University, Neuendorf went to then-Aberdeen Central coach Terry Small and made a similar request to learn how to coach.

I didnt learn basketball in a college classroom, I learned it by working with Coach Small, Neuendorf said. I did some background checking on him. Hes a guy I thought we wanted to be part of our program. I didnt know how much basketball he knew, but he was a good person and a person we wanted to work with the kids.

Kreutzfeldt eventually acquired a teaching position at Mitchell and remained on the coaching staff, attending every practice, scouting trip or fundraiser for the team. However, it took some time to realize his opinion was valued by the rest of the coaches.

Mitchell assistant coaches Wes Morgan, right, and Ryker Kreutzfeldt watch the action along with head coach Todd Neuendorf during a game against Brandon Valley on Jan. 19 at the Corn Palace. (Matt Gade / Republic)

One of the first realizations came when he learned to create scouting reports on Hudl, an online scouting site. He presented his idea to Neuendorf and the two have collaborated on the game plan for each game.

After three seasons coaching freshmen, Kreutzfeldt was elevated to coach the sophomores this season, and because of his proficiency with the scouting report, he now makes most of the substitution decisions for the varsity team.

If you want to learn, you have to just get in and do it, Kreutzfeldt said. Coaching isnt easy and you just have to do it. You figure out what works and what doesnt. Hopefully seeing it work helps me down the line.

As Kreutzfeldts voice continues to grow within the Kernel program, the idea of being a head coach in the future becomes more attainable. Neuendorf understands he may eventually lose his protege, but Kreutzfeldt is content in his current role.

Having spent the duration of his life in Mitchell, moving away would be a life-changing decision. Plus, after being a part of Neuendorfs initial rebuilding phase that saw the Kernels go 10-52 in the first three seasons, Kreutzfeldt has enjoyed experiencing Mitchells revival this season.

Those first couple years we had some long bus rides and long nights in the back room at the Corn Palace trying to figure it out, Kreutzfeldt said. Now that weve got it rolling a little bit, hopefully we can keep it going. Its a lot of fun and the hard part is enjoying it. Youre always thinking about the next game, but you have to enjoy the wins because theyre hard to get.

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Diverse coaching backgrounds of Wes Morgan, Ryker Kreutzfeldt play crucial role in Kernel basketball rebirth - The Daily Republic

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Bob Wright of Summit Township holds up a baseball in front of his coaching plaques and pictures of his children and grandchildren in his basement. (Jackson Citizen Patriot file photo/Jeana-Dee Allen).BPN

JACKSON If youve picked up a baseball bat or tried on a mitt in Jackson County in the past 60 years, youve probably run into Bob Wright.

The coaching icon and beloved baseball aficionado spent 57 years in the profession, helping create countless opportunities for young student-athletes across southeast Michigan while shaping the lives of generations in the process.

Wright passed away at age 92 on Jan. 21, leaving behind a legacy that reaches far beyond the baseball diamond.

He was Mr. Baseball around Jackson, said current Jackson Northwest athletic director Chris Galloway, who also played baseball for Wright at Jackson High. He gave kids opportunities through the game of baseball, whether it was high school, summer league or fall ball. He gave me tremendous opportunities when I played for him at Jackson High, which helped me in my future career. I learned so much between my time playing for him and then when I came back and coached with him when he was coaching the (Jackson) Wendys (summer-league) team.

He was someone you could look up to, someone that you definitely respected. Just by his demeanor, he demanded respect and he made his players want to play harder for him and excel because they appreciated how much he cared and the opportunities he awarded them.

Over the course of his life, I couldnt imagine the amount of hours that hes committed to the sport and the amount of lives hes touched through his compassion for people and his love of the game.

Wright was inducted into the Michigan High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame in 1988 and the Michigan High School Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 1995. During his team at both Jackson High and Jackson Lumen Christi, Wright won 336 games as a varsity baseball coach. His 1988 squad at Jackson High set a school record with 26 victories and won the first Capital Area Conference championship in program history.

The 2006 recipient of the Jackson Citizen Patriots Al Cotton Award, which is given annually to an individual or individuals who have made significant contributions to the Jackson-area sporting community, knew the sport of baseball inside and out and used the athletic endeavor as a chance to give back whenever he could.

There wasnt a situation on a baseball field that Bob Wright hadnt seen, said Jackson Lumen Christi baseball coach Phil Clifford. I would say that he was instrumental in my development as a coach because he had a hand in everything that we do currently. He meant a lot to our program. He was obviously a great coach, but he was even better human being. I really appreciated his mentoring and just general advice.

I knew I could always pick his brain and talk to him about anything. We would spend hours talking about the kids in our program, winter hitting, how the team was developing, and how other teams in our league were looking.

He absolutely loved the game and you could really tell by his passion. He was who he was, and he was just a very kind man and a huge friend of our program. Hes going to be missed by everyone in the Jackson Lumen Christi community.

Wright graduated from Jackson High School in 1945 and served two years in the U.S. Army of Occupation in Kyoto, Japan. He later attended Jackson Community College and graduated from Western Michigan University.

After coaching and teaching at Wyoming Lee High School for eight years, Wright came back to the Jackson community to coach baseball and basketball at Jackson High. During his 29-year tenure with the Vikings, his teams won several district and regional championships in both baseball and basketball. He would retire from coaching varsity sports in 1988 but went on to coach two additional seasons at Jackson Lumen Christi from 2004-05.

Even when he initially retired, Wright couldnt refrain from continuing to apply his passion to the younger generations of athletes in his community. He helped form the Jackson Wendys summer-league team, which compiled the best high school baseball players in the Jackson area and helped promote those student-athletes to possible opportunities at the college level while traveling to tournaments across the Midwest.

Jackson Wendy's coach Bob Wright talks to his players from the third base coaching box, during action in the Tom Conway Baseball Tournament against Mel's Indians at Northwest High School Field. (Jackson Citizen Patriot File photo/Bob Keyes).CITIZEN PATRIOT

According to a 2009 interview with the Jackson Citizen Patriot, Wright coached nearly 180 players from 28 schools in the area during his 20 years with the program. Two-thirds of those athletes went on to play baseball in college, including 17 in Division I. Four of his former players were drafted into the major leagues.

One of the players who has gone to enjoy a professional career in baseball is Ryan LaMarre, who was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2010 MLB Draft and has enjoyed an 11-year career in the big leagues.

Bob was unbelievable, LaMarre told MLive. He was definitely a special man and he had such a huge impact on baseball in the Jackson area. Its a unique, niche community, but anyone whos ever played baseball in the Jackson area knows who Bob Wright is.

I got to play for him for one of his two seasons at Lumen Christi, and I felt like I got to know him pretty well. His knowledge of the game was insane, and he just cared for the players that competed at Lumen. There are some lessons that he taught us that I still think about and he kind of had a hand in shaping how I approached the game.

I remember how much work he put in just to make us better players. He would set up practices in the gym in the winter, organize practices during the fall, and I think just to see kind of that dedication to his craft was something that Ill never forget.

The little things often loomed large for Wright and some of those minor details are still entrenched in present-day major leaguers.

I remember to this day that he didnt like when outfielders took a knee during a pitching change, recalled LaMarre. He thought that made you look like you either didnt care about the game, you were too tired or you werent interested in playing anymore.

Even now, I could even be in the major leagues, and I dont think Ive ever taken a knee during a pitching change even when all my teammates are resting or trying to get off their feet. I think that was just ingrained in me by Bob and thats something I just kept me with all these years. Its small in the grand scheme of things, but its a lesson that I took to heart and something Ive used throughout my career.

Wright often went the extra mile for his players and their families, as he tried to make travel baseball a more reasonable venture for anyone in his community with the same passion for the game.

He did everything within his power to make baseball an affordable sport for any kid in Jackson who was interested, said LaMarre. He would put on fundraisers to help lower the cost for players families and lessen the financial burden of uniforms, equipment and travel expenses and he just genuinely cared about his community.

It wasnt about wins and losses with him. It wasnt about whether or not you went on to play in college or not or played in the pros. All he cared about was what kind of person did you become after playing for him. I think thats what made him so special to a lot of people.

Jackson baseball coach Bob Wright. (Jackson Citizen Patriot file photo/Marcia Butterfield).CITIZEN PATRIOT

Building relationships was critical in Wrights eyes, which is why he spent most of his energy promoting young athletes he saw potential in.

Ill never forget the time he came over to my parents house my freshman year and met with me and my parents, said Galloway of his initial encounters with Wright. He talked with me and my parents about a plan he had for my baseball career and giving me opportunities to not only play in high school, but summer ball, and trying to get me to the next level, because he saw potential in me. Ill never forget that because coaches dont do that. Ive never heard of a coach coming to the house of a freshman and talking to him and his parents.

I dont think there are any former Jackson-area baseball players from ages 28 to 70 that dont know who Bob Wright was or what he stood for. Hes helped mold the lives of several generations of men and helped create memories for a lot of families.

If Wright did see potential in you, he was bound to push you in practice and demand a level of consistent effort that helped create a winning culture in the Jackson baseball community.

The first word that comes to mind when I think of Bob Wright is class, said Mick Kalahar, a former player and coach under Wright at Lumen Christi. He always did everything the right way, whether it was in relation to baseball or just treating people with class and respect. He was also a fiery competitor, but he wasnt someone who was going to scream at you or talk down to you.

He was going to push you hard during practice and maybe get after you a little bit if you were loafing or not giving your best effort to prepare for the next game, but he was never a big yeller during games. He always believed that how you play is a direct result of how well you prepared during the week at practice, so there was no need for him to yell and scream at you. He let your play do the talking.

Even when a player would hang up his cleats for good, Wright continued to keep an eye on what his former standouts accomplished off the diamond.

He took a lot of pride in what his players went on to do, said Kalahar. He took a lot of pride in what they were able to accomplish after their careers were over. He wanted all of his players to contribute to their community and a lot of them have become leaders in different ways.

Whether its a superintendent, a school administrator, leaders of companies or coaches, he wanted to create a generation of leaders. I think he really had a widespread impact on the whole community in Jackson and I think that reaches beyond sports in a lot of ways.

Wrights legacy will live on for generations to come due to his personal commitment to making his community a better place and the relationships he established, often from the backseat of the dugout.

You would think it would be difficult for a guy who was 87 years old to relate to a teenager, but Bob had a way of connecting with young people, said Clifford. He would talk to kids about baseball, but hed spend even more time talking about life. He would sit in the dugout and talk to kids about how school was going, how life at home was going and just really made everyone feel important and I think the players really respected him for that.

This will be my 11th year as a head coach at Lumen this spring. Weve won five district titles, a couple of regional titles, and a state championship, and I believe that a piece of all of those championships are Bob Wrights.

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Bob Wright remembered as coaching icon, molder of men in Jackson community - MLive.com

BARNEGAT, NJ - Barnegat High School Coach Sue Rogers induction as the first local coach into the New Jersey Coaches Hall of Fame deserves its share of accolades. However, Rogers personal commitment to Barnegat students puts her in an even higher class.

Rogers employs coaching into her daily routine as she interacts with students. December of 2019 found Rogers dipping into her toolbox of skills.

The story begins with a teenaged student who transferred from another district to Barnegat schools. The fact that he was an athlete and Rogers a coach perhaps contributed to their bond.

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The young man just made the Bengals football team when Rogers came into his life. Again, the Barnegat coach was not there to lead him in training exercises. Her role kicked in during what most would call her day job.

As a learning disabilities teacher consultant, Rogers serves as a member of Barnegats child study team. Even before COVID-19, she made her share of home visits.

No doubt the reason Rogers found herself stopping in to see the new transfer remains forever embedded in her mind. The student suffered from a terminal illness and ultimately passed away.

Rogers stayed on the young mans team even after his death. She was one of the worshipers at his beautiful funeral and helped the family organize the get together after the celebration of life.

Its one of those strange coincidences that makes people wonder. The Barnegat Board of Education honored Rogers at their meeting this week. The district also shared accolades about Michele Cucinotta, whose role as a school counselor just expanded.

Whats so interesting that the two were bothappreciated at the same meeting? Cucinotta also gave up a Saturday to attend the young mans funeral. The decedents little brother found his school counselors kind eyes in a sea of family members. It turns out that coaches and cheerleaders both resemble a place of comfort for Barnegat students.

I do believe teaching and coaching are integrally related, said Rogers. I love both.

Rogers came to the Barnegat Township School District in 2003, before the high school opened. She coached a number of sports at Pinelands Regional High School andled the girls tennis team upon its inception.

Barnegat High School claimed the titles for five girls tennis Shore Conference B-South division championships in 2007, 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015. Rogers was not only the team leader for those games. She also began coaching varsity girls golf when the program started in 2008.

Several of Rogers students continued with tennis and golf competitions after they enrolled in college. As the coach sees it, both sports offer other opportunities.

Ive had students who told me how golf and tennis skills have worked to their benefit after they finished college and entered the workforce, Rogers shared. Its helped them in the corporate world to strengthen contacts.

As a learning specialist, it should not come as a surprise that Rogers has a special place in her heart for children who compete in Special Olympics. The Barnegat coach earned the distinction as the New Jersey Special Olympics Tennis Coach at the 2018 National Games in Seattle.

Barnegat Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Latwis presented Rogers with a challenge coin at the Board of Education meeting held earlier this week. The first challenge coin went to individuals who may have saved a Barnegat mans life.

Latwis said that the district made up a special Bengals jacket for Rogers. They intended to decorate it with all of the coachs accomplishments but ran out of room.

I had the pleasure of getting to know Sue when I first came to the district as the Director of Special Ed, said Latwis. There are so many things that shes done as a coach and for the community. Shes an even better person (than the coach award signifies).

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Barnegat Coach Inducted into State Hall of Fame: Honor Extends Further - TAPinto.net

After graduation, she worked as a counselor for awhile, but Wilkening found her calling when she worked with one student from her church who wanted coaching. It was then that her true passionconfidence coachingtook on a life of its own, she says. Wilkening explains the difference between therapy and coaching: Therapy often deals with past trauma and debilitating beliefs. Coaching is when youre ready to move forward. Its goal-setting.

As a parent, Wilkening personally faces some of the same challenges as the families she works with, navigating the new normal of pandemic-affected school and social life for her own teens. Her twin oldest daughters headed off to college this fall, one of them to Bethel, and she has two teenagers still at home. Immersed in the teen landscape at home, in student ministries, and in her coaching practice, Wilkening has a deep awareness and compassion for the concerns of teens and their families. She points to four main areas of concern.

First, in the face of normal teenage struggles coupled with the challenges of COVID-19, she says, anxiety is rampant. Its paralyzing for a lot of kids. They feel debilitated by fears. Second, body image issues, long a concern for young people, are increasingly exacerbated by social media. Third, social media in general is a problem, since kids are not taught the difference between what is reality and what is not. And finally, self-esteem is taking an extra hit from pandemic isolation, since kids cant do some of the things they would normally do when theyre feeling bad, like going places and hanging out with friends.

Wilkening sees the concerns of teens as a family concerns. In fact, she says, sometimes coaching a teen actually means coaching the parent. Our kids mental health will only come so far as we as parents will let it, she emphasizes. We as parents have to open our minds, open our hearts, and open our eyes to what our kids are dealing with. She offers three suggestions for parents who want to support their teens mental health:

While working with teens and their families means facing some significant challenges head-on, Wilkening ultimately finds hope in the journey. Teenagers want to get better, she says. They havent developed lifelong habits around negative feelings, so when they learn to identify the lies and take their power back, there is so much potential for growth. God does not want themor any of usto be ashamed of who we are. At our core, we are created by a good God, and we need to be rooted in that.

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Giving Teens the Confidence to Thrive - Bethel University News

Cubs fans

Gene and Karen Ostergren celebrate their 51st wedding anniversary.

"We represent both sides," Richard Pedraza wrote via email. Pedraza was born in 1971 and his brother Peter was born in 1972.

Katie and Bryce Wright

"Here is my dad, Don Voros of Munster, at his first-ever Crosstown game in 2016! From the 3rd row 1st base seats, his head was a constant swivel! I was so happy to give him such a bucket list item in what would turn out to be the last year of his life."

"I wouldnt say my dad and I are the 'biggest' fans in the Region, but we are some dedicated, die-hard fans.

I took him to his first game since the early 80s in September for his 60th birthday. I have no idea why we waited so long to go, but we are now making it a daddy/daughter tradition. Our next outing it July 6, and I couldnt be more excited to spend the day with my best friend in my favorite place on earth!"

"Here is a photo from 2016' the week of the World Series. We brought up the Bluesmobile for FOX sports to use during the introduction of Game 3. I decided to ask my girlfriend to marry me and ended up on a few TV stations and the Cubs photographer took a few pictures of our engagement. I'm originally from the Region and a lifelong Cubs fan and this was a great day."

"My Grandfather (Les Lee) was a loyal cubs fan since 1936 when he was 6 years old. He wanted to see the Cubs win the World Series before he passed and that dream of his came true last year. We just lost this great man in our lives on April 21, 2018. His funeral service ended with the Go Cubs Go! "

Danielle Shriner, Christina Zecevich and Paige Massie

"My 10-year-old son Carson has a 20 foot mural of Wrigley Field on his bedroom walls. He was interviewed by a Chicago newspaper last year."

"My wife Stacey Owen (Hobart, IN) is a lifelong Cubs fan, she grew up watching it with her grandfather TL. Last year she got to play baseball at Wrigley Field and meet Ryne Sandberg I was so happy for her!"

"Last July with pals."

"Here are some photos of my family. We are big Cub fans."

This picture was taken in 1983. From left to right: Diane Rapnikas (my mother) , Joee Lindmark (myself) and Jackie Rapnikas (my grandmother). Three generations of Cubs fans! And, yes, I am coloring on the visitors dug out.

Game 5 in 2016. The Chicago Cubs beat the Dodgers to go to the World Series.

"We are a house divided. My fianc is a Cubs fan and I am a White Sox fan so our newborn Viviana has to cheer for both."

"We are a house divided. My fianc is a Cubs fan and I am a White Sox fan so our newborn Viviana has to cheer for both."

"My husband has been a life long Cubs fan, so when I met him 10 years ago he quickly got me hooked on the Lovable Losers. We were fortunate enough to go to Game 7 in Cleveland and experience the euphoria firsthand! We talk all the time about re-telling every detail of that game to our grandchildren some day! Lovable Losers no more!"

Christmas wish comes true!

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My entire life is focused around the Cubs. At my house, there is a Cubs item in every room, but none is decorated as much as my office. My son was born in March 2016 and didn't even have to wait until his first birthday to see the Cubs win the World Series. My wife and I like to think he was the one who broke the curse."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I have been a Cubs fan as long as I can remember. My dad, Barry, affectionately known as 'Bear', passed on his love for the Cubbies to me, just as I have to my son, Caden. My dad had been longing for a World Series Championship his entire life and would have been beyond himself when the Cubs won it all this past year. My dad passed away in May of last year. The night before he passed, my dad's last words to me were, 'Did the Cubs win? (Yes) Did the Sox lose? (Yes) It's a great day.' I have to believe that he was up in heaven pulling strings in Game 7. After my dad's passing, I had his thumbprint made into necklace charms for me and my son. We wore them throughout the playoffs. We also had bottles of champagne sitting out for Game 7. The last bottle was for my dad. After the Game 7 victory, we went to his grave site and sprayed it down. My father was the best dad in the world. I was very blessed to have him as a father and for passing down his love for the Cubbies. He was and forever will be the greatest Cubs fan I have ever and will ever know."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My parents were big Cubs fans who took us to many games over the years growing up. Some of my best memories are sitting in the upper deck at Wrigley, watching the game with glove in hand, just hoping a foul ball might come my way. They instilled in my brother and I a love for the Cubs and baseball. Most of my extended family are Cubs fans as well. Since my senior year of college we have been doing annual Cubs outings. Last year, in 2016, we were fortunate to go to several regular season games as well as hang out at Murphy's during the Cubs playoff run. We were there when they won the pennant; it was wild! This year we have plans to go to a few regular season home games, and we recently booked a trip to go see the Cubs at Fenway this April. There is nothing like Cubs culture!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My husband and his grandpa are the two biggest fans I know . Grandpa George waited 94 years for a World Series win. So proud!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My husband and I have both been Cubs fans since we were young, but when the Cubs advanced to the World Series on our wedding night, we definitely had to celebrate! Our entire wedding turned into a "Go Cubs Go" train and we flew the W around the entire venue! Go Cubs!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My first memories are from '69 and my mom lost 10 pounds in September. This year of course is our most memorable season ever. My basement is a shrine to the boys in blue and this picture caps off a lifetime of being a Cubs fan..I can't imagine being a fan of any other team."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I've been a Cubs fan since I was two years old when my Grandfather took me to my First Game on the Old South Shore Locomotive.. I've been going to the Home Opener for over 25 years and am going again April 10th.. My License plates are personalized and say Cubs4LFE on them as Well!! I Live and Breathe Chicago Cubs and Was With The Ultimate Person when they Won the World Series.. I will NEVER FORGET THAT MOMENT!! CUBS4LIFE!!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"Our family bleeds Cubbie blue! We have shared our love of baseball and the Cubbies with our 4 young boys and now they love following all the teams: South Bend Cubs, Tennessee Smokies, Eugene Emeralds, and the Myrtle Beach Pelicans."

"It's what you have in your heart."- Ron Santo

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I have had different Cubs designs shaved into my hair since October of 2016, the one on the left being the most recent! I have yet to go a day without some sort of Cubs design in my hair. I've been a die hard Cubs fan all my life, win or lose I'm watching them. A big shout-out to my barber Jimbo who has designed all of these!! #GoCubsGo #FlyTheW"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"HAPPINESS IS......A CUBS GAME ON TV AND MY DOG BY MY SIDE I live & breathe the Cubbies and she right there with me. #girlsbestfriend#gocubs"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My dad Carlos Martinez has been a die-hard Cubs fan for 60-plus years. He never misses a game. He couldn't have been more exited to see the Cubs win the World Series."

I've waited 40 years to get this tattoo. I've finally been able to do it.

I'm glad my grandparents raised me to be a Cubs fan. I remember at age 8 watching the games on TV with them yelling and screaming and singing "Jodi, Jodi Davis" watching all the greats like Ryne Sandberg , Rick Sutcliffe, Andre Dawson and many others. My only wish was for my grandfather Espinosa to witness them win a world series win which he missed by 2 weeks as he passed away October 17th 2016. I'm sure he watched and danced in heaven.

Craig Collard is the biggest Cubs fan. Why, you ask? Well, it has been a family tradition since his grandfather was a young man, back in 1930's. His mother, Joan Collard, another an avid fan and deserving winner of this contest, passed her love of the Cubs to her son, Craig. Craig has a impressive Cubs basement that he designed himself, complete with a wall of ivy. Moreover, Craig has three beautiful daughters, who he named after Cubs players (Grace - Mark Grace, Lily - Ted Lilly, and Keri - Kerry Wood). All three girls have meet their namesakes as infants. Craig saves lives everyday as Hammond firefighter. Vote for Craig and his girls! Go Cubs!

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"These were the flowers at my dad's funeral. He passed away 12/24/15 and missed seeing them win the World Series. We had these flowers preserved and made into 2 smaller versions in separate shadow boxes. One for me and one for my sister to remember our dad and the Cubbies forever! We hope you are rooting with Harry and all the other players and fans that have passed on, Dad! Go Cubs Go!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I have watched the Cubs ever since I can remember. I have watched all games through thick and thin. I raised my boys to love the Cubs. My picture shows what every year we hope to do! The Cubs candle was handed down by a great grandparent and she was never going to light it till they made the World Series. After many years of hoping and waiting, my family and I were able to finally light that candle. PICTURES: My wife and I at game one of the NLDS. My sons and I at Game 3 of the World Series and finally my son and I watching the last out and winning the World Series. My dream has come true.

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My brother Don has been a Cubs fan his entire life. He has lived and died with every game for over 35 years. We had the good fortune of being at the game at Wrigley where the Cubs won to advance to the NLCS two years ago. Don has been through years of the bad to be able to celebrate this past season. He was a real DieHard Cubs fan in the 80's. There is no bigger Cubs fan than my brother Don. Although he is physically limited, Don has remained a Cubs fan through the years and the Cubs are the one thing he always looked forward to rooting for every spring."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My grandpa turned me into a die hard Cubs fan growing up, this past summer he spent his last good week alive at a Cubs game. The next week he went to the hospital and never left. His last event in his life was spent at Wrigley Field. The Cubs won a month after his death and every emotion in the world was felt in Wrigleyville the night they won it all. I took his funeral card with me to the city that night and had the best time of my life. Hopefully my best friend Jordan Minch who pitches in the Cubs farm system can reach Wrigley this season or the next. Photo was taken by the Chicago Tribune and the photographer sent it to me the next morning.

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I've been a diehard Cubs fan my whole life and this year was blessed with a son to raise as one as well!!!!"

I'm a huge cubs fan, I have just about anything cubs, when I was a kid I would call into cubs vineline and win prizes every week, and talk cubs with the host, I go pretty much every birthday in April and freeze my butt off because it's my birthday and I wanna see the cubs! Last year for their 2016 World Series win, I legit quit my job because I wouldn't get enough sleep to work as a truck driver, and miss the most important game of my life, so this is why I'm the biggest fanatic of the fantastic Chicago cubs

This is a little clip of my Crazy Cubs Fan Family!! From as long as I can remember this is the only team there was to root for. My Dad (the greatest man ever) has lived for this team and I'm sure he learned this from another great man his father, Pa. As a kid I remember Grandma and Pa Cheering for their team, along with my dad and mom and my aunts and uncles and 20 something cousins and my family of my own and my sisters and their families and soon enough when the next generation gets here for our family, you better believe they will be bleeding cubbie blue! Whether we are cheering from Wrigley Field, our homes, the car, in heaven or wherever we might be......Go Cubs Go!!! Let's have another great season!

Being a Cubs Fan means so much more than just watching baseball. It's the memories made with the ones you love! This Team brings Families & Friends together bringing pure joy to their lives. Win or lose they embody Faith & Perserverance! I loved The Cubs before their Championship Win & I love them now until I take my last breath! That's what being a true fan means to me! Being there for the good, the bad, the ugly, and the simple magic that comes alive during every single game! And I'll be singing "Go Cubs Go" when I watch!

Both my husband and I have been Cubs fans since we were little and now we have our kids that are huge fans as well. We watch every game together!! We love our Cubbies.

I have been a fan all my life. My grandpa was a die hard fan. My mom and I grew up watching the games with him. I have been to at least 100 Cubs games. I have been all over the country to at least 8 stadiums to see them. My daughter, husband, and I go to at least 5 games per season. I have met many current players. My daughter met her favorite player last year, Jake Arrieta, when we stayed at the same hotel as the team in Cincinnati. One of my favorite moments was meeting Ron Santo. I invited the Cubs announcers to our wedding and I received a shout out on the broadcast and a written letter. We got engaged with a brick outside Wrigley Field.

Been a fan since I was 3 thanks to my Grandma, Emily. We never missed a game while she was alive. Have caarried on her tradition with my family.

Our first date was a Cubs game, that God rained out. So we had to go on a second date. It's been 6 years and we are getting married in June sporting cubbie blue! We spend on anniversary at a cubs game!

My family has been Cubs fans since... well my dad being born in 1948. He passed his fandom down to us. He turned my mom into a fanatic. I went to my first game when I was just a month old. In 2003, my mom and I made a bet we would get tattoos when they win it all. Well 13 years later and you can see the results- my mom even cemented her love of Anthony Rizzo!

My daughter and I love the Cubs! We couldn't be together the day they won the World Series, still can't believe it happened, but we were on the phone when it happened! I wouldn't have wanted to be with anyone else but her on that amazing night!!

Mike Killeen is a die hard, life long Cubs fan! He is a long time season ticket holder. He paints the Cubs logo in his front yard and hosts viewing parties for friends, family and neighbors! You might have seen his blow up screen from 77th Avenue. His love for the Cubs is contagious and he instills this love in his kids. His entire garage is decorated in Cubs memorabilia and newspapers. His wedding cake was a replica Wrigley Field. He got his dog a Cubs tattoo. Mike Killeen definitely deserves this award!

I've been a diehard Cubs fan my whole life and this year was blessed with a son to raise as one as well!!!!

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I'm a Sox fan born and raised. My wife is a Cubs fan. But my kids sure do look cute in all their Cubs gear."

"My husband's a Sox fan and I'm a Cubs fan. Our kids aren't sure what to be yet. I got him to wear Cubs gear and spend an evening at Wrigley for Game 3 of the World Series and it was awesome, even though they lost that game. We even made it on TV after the game with my dad and cousin who flew in from Texas. He now owns 2 Cubs shirts and a hat."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"Ever since I was a little girl, I have been raised up on watching the Chicago Cubs from watching it with my mom to my grandparents. This year I recently lost my mom 3 days before my son was born. Not only is this picture a tribute to her, but it's also to show I am along with my son a true Chicago Cubs Fan."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My grandson Weston fell in love with baseball this summer and had to be Zobrist for Halloween!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"Ever since the day I was born I've bled Cubbie blue. I had the privilege to go to my first game when I was two, and was held by Harry Caray (he was drunk). My favorite all time player is Ryne Sandberg. I've never given up on my Cubbies! Yeah, they let you down year to year, but winning the 2016 World Series was worth the disappointments! I'm looking forward to the repeat this year, and hoping they become a dynasty! Go Cubs Go!!!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"From my first memory of watching my Cubbies in 1969 on WGN at the age of 7...to a surprise gift of tickets to The Rube Walker Banquet in 1978 at the age of 16 where I got to meet some of my favorite Cubs...to my dreams of becoming World Series Champs finally coming true at the age of 54...I have LOVED the Cubs forever through thick and thin!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"Ryan has been a Cubs fan since he was a young boy. He is a true die hard Cubs fan that bleeds blue. I can't even count the number of games he has been to. He has never doubted that they would win the World Series. He was at Game 3 of the World Series. When the Cubs lost he had a lot of Sox fans talking about the Cubs. He NEVER doubted the Cubs or lost hope. He just kept saying that they will win it. This is their year and they are going to win it! The picture I posted was from the World Series. He always said.. 'I never doubted them for a second. I believed.'"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"One year old Henry, a fifth generation Cubs fan, is cheering on his favorite team in the bleachers on a beautiful day from the Friendly Confines of Wrigley Field. Go Cubs Go!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I been a Cubs fan all my 15 weeks of life. I was born the year that MY CUBBIES won the World Series. The Chicago Cubs don't know it yet, but I'm their good luck charm! GO CUBBIES!!!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"We have always been big Chicago Cubs fans. My oldest daughter's favorite song is Go Cubs Go, and she has big dreams of meeting Jake Arrieta. This September we added another die hard Cubs fan to our lineup. We watched them clinch the Worlds Series together and will forever remember they way we were feeling. Go Cubs Go!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"This is my nephew Mateo Kluga. His dad, Doug Kluga, has been a fan ever since I can remember. Mateo loves the Cubs just as much as dad! At such a young age, he knows all the players and their positions. He goes to games with his dad and watches every game with him! The picture was taken when they went to the parade."

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"My family is the biggest fans of our beloved Cubbies. Mickey Morandini played with the Cubs, and lived down the street, in Valpo, and he invited my 3-year-old to meet him when she was doing her Chemo. Breanna then met Tony Campana who was also a cancer survivor, and now we have Anthony Rizzo who is also a cancer survivor, so when Bre finally met Anthony he autographed her Cancer Survivor tattoo and she has his autograph tattooed on her! We have met a lot of GREAT cubs players over her 22 years , but Anthony has stole her heart. We have two dogs, Clark Rizzo and Addison Grace. Breanna now has a baby who was born October 13 just in time to be our Good Luck Charm World Series Baby. The Cubs will always be a part of our hearts no matter if they win or lose. #TheyAreGood #WSRepeat #1Fan"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"Addison Grace was born to be a Cubs fan. She's named after Addison Street that houses Wrigley Field, and former Cubs player Mark Grace. She was born 10-21-2016 during an awesome playoff run. She never had to wait too long to see the Cubs win a World Series, but her mommy will make sure she understand how much joy and heartache has gone into her namesake. Go Cubs!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"We love our Cubbies family style!!!!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"This is a picture of my father and my daughter the day the Cubs won the World Series. My dad has always been the biggest Cubs fan I know and has waiting his whole life for a World Series win, while my daughter Maci only had to wait 6 months! This picture represents my dad's heart and soul -- his granddaughter and the Cubs!"

Why such a big Cubs fan?

"I have loved the cubs since I can remember .. I use to sit with my father and watch the games. Unfortunately my father passed away of Alzheimers 10 years ago so he didn't get to see them win the World Series. I have my Cubs tattoo which is getting the World Series Banner added in two weeks for my birthday. I have lots of Cubs collectibles along with shirts and hats. I even have a Cubs Jersey for my chihuahua. I also have an apartment in Cleveland and the World Series flag is hanging out the window. My love for the Cubs has spread 2 people that are not sports fans and because of that they have become Cubs fans.

Why such a big Cubs fan? Remington is a huge Cubs fan because they won their first World Series the year she was born. She stayed up late each night to watch them play and was so excited to see them win. Her first game she ever attended was while she was still in her mother's belly. She has tickets to visit the Ivy this summer and show off her new world series champions shirt!

Why such a big Cubs fan?

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SPORTS DIGEST: Cubs, Bears and Blackhawks make moves with coaching staff, rosters - The Times of Northwest Indiana

Rose McFarland, Thomas More Prep-Marian coach and teacher, is January's Hays Post Teacher of the Month.

By CRISTINA JANNEYHays Post

Rose McFarland, a Thomas More Prep-Marian teacher and coach, said trophies, winning seasons and championships are not what have been the highlights of her career.

McFarland, 59, who has been a coach and teacher for 25 years, said the relationships she has built with her students and peers have been the most treasured aspect of her years in education and athletics.

She has taught all levels from kindergarten through college.

"When you see some of those kids who you have taught in the past go out into the world and find careers and find families, to me, that's very rewarding," she said. "It's about life. Hopefully, you are teaching some life lessons. Things aren't always easy. Sometimes there are challenges, but when things get tough, you have all those people around you to support you.

"I have been through that in my life. A lot of people stepped up and gave me support, and that is probably what I appreciate most."

Many of her current junior high students may not know, but McFarland faced a life-and-death challenge when she began teaching at TMP.

McFarland was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, she went through treatment and was given a clean bill of health.

Shortly after coming to coach and teach health and PE at TMP nine years ago, McFarland's cancer reoccurred.

She underwent surgery, chemo and radiation.

Melissa Schoepf, TMP math teacher, said in her nomination for the Hays Post Teacher of the Month, McFarland overcame her cancer diagnosis, all while maintaining a positive attitude.

"She has inspired our students, faculty and staff to never give up and keep pushing through,"Schoepf said. "She rarely missed a day in the classroom or on the basketball court while undergoing chemotherapy, which demonstrates her dedication to her students and her mental toughness."

McFarland said coming to school was motivating during her treatment.

"It got me up in the morning. I had a lot of support, and that helped me a lot," she said. "People were very supportive here. People I've coached in the past and taught with in the past and family were very supportive."

She said she could remember coaching games, coming back to her office, laying down on her coach and not having the energy to get back up.

"It wasn't easy, but I did it, and got through there, and in another year, it came back again," she said.

She appreciated the school allowing her to continue to teach. Her doctor said he was amazed she was back in school.

"I think it is how you see things and just being positive," she said. "I had a lot of positivity around me. My faith helped carry me through. I am just happy for every day I am here."

She said she knows others have greater challenges, and she tries not to focus on herself or her challenges.

When she first was diagnosed with cancer, McFarland was substitute teaching and coaching her young son's basketball team. McFarland lost her hair during treatment, so all of the boys on her team shaved their heads.

"I am sure they learned to have more courage," she said. "They did that for me.

"Those kids I coached, those kids I taught, they got to see that I wasn't going to give up, and you get through those challenges and move on."

People were so generous and kind to her that it was difficult, she said, because she had to swallow her pride and learn to accept the help.

"I think sometimes it helps those people who do things for you," she said. "It helps them as much as it probably helped me."

Her faith and being a part of the religious community at TMP was important to her as she struggled with the cancer and still today.

"We can talk about our religion. We can talk about our faith. We can share our faith. We can talk about Jesus," McFarland said. "That's why I'm here. I am allowed to do that and share with others."

Schoepf, who nominated McFarland for Teacher of the Month, said as a physical education/health teacher, McFarland continually provides fun, engaging, active lessons to her students and works with helping them maintain a healthy lifestyle.

One activity she is very passionate about is the school's annual health fair, during which her students plan and present on current health issues.

McFarland has always put value on physical and health education. She started the physical education program at St. Joseph Elementary School in Hays, and also kicked off the program at TMP, when the junior high was added there.

"A lot of people think its just activities or fitness, but there is so much more," she said. "There is so much social/emotional wellness. You learn leadership skills. You learn teamwork. You learn sportsmanship. You learn how to stay fit, plus they have fun.

"It is a good break from academia over there. They can come and release and learn how to get along with others."

She said it is not just playing games.

"It's skills for a lifetime. Our health is so valuable. You can have all the money in the world, but if you don't have your health, what good is it?" McFarland said.

She said she tries to reach those students who don't like PE.

"If we can find that one activity to reach them, I think that is very important if we can get them to think they want to do it for a lifetime."

As a coach some of her best memories have not been the winning seasons, but the teams who were able to grow.

"Sometimes those challenging years are the funnest," she said. ... "Just seeing the growth when they finally do something, you are like 'Aha, they finally got it.' "

She wants to do her best for her athletes and for them to do the best they can for themselves. McFarland said she is very competitive, which lead to many sleepless nights, going over games in her head.

She said in the end, it's about teaching her students and athletes about life.

"I like sharing what I have experienced," she said, "the values of the things I learned in my past. It's not for the money.

"I think it is important to have good role models and leaders and instill a passion for whatever they want to do in life."

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Teacher of the Month: McFarland teaching, coaching about life - hays Post