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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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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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."

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

Girls on the Run of Southwest Indianas spring season Coach Registration is now open. Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program that inspires girls in 3rd through 8th grade to be joyful, healthy and confident. The eight-week program incorporates physical activity to teach critical life skills, encourage personal development, foster meaningful connections with others as well as contribution to the community - activities and skills that are necessary and valuable in both National and personal recovery efforts. Volunteer coaches will utilize a structured curriculum to engage teams of girls in fun, interactive lessons. Teams meet twice a week for 75-90 minutes and the program culminates with all girls completing a physical activity challenge/5k event.

Coaches do not need to be athletes but are required to be a minimum of eighteen years old to serve as an assistant or twenty-one years old to serve as a head coach. All volunteer coaches must complete a background check and attend a training session.

For more information about coaching and Girls on the Run of Southwest Indiana visit http://www.gotrswin.org/Coach. For questions, please contact Jamie Jahn at jamie.jahn@girlsontherun.org.

Originally posted here:
Girls on the Run of Southwest IN Spring Coaching Opportunities - The Herald

Shelly Ethridges intense focus during her players practices and games was legendary.

By Daniel L. Chamness

(Editors Note: Reprinted with the permission of the Trenton Sun) Shelly Ethridge has given over 75 percent of her life to the sport of womens basketball. And even though she was recently named to the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, the St. Louis Community College Administrator is not done giving. Not even close.

Recently, Ethridge was named to the Hall of Fame and retired from coaching. She had been a high school or college coach for a total of 28 years and if you add her high school and college playing time, she had been involved in girls/womens basketball for a total of 36 years.

It is a tremendous honor to be selected to the the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame, said Ethridge. I look at this honor as not only for me, but for the members of my staff and for all the young ladies that have played basketball for me throughout all the years. When I left coaching, it was the perfect time for me to walk way. It was time for me to enjoy more time with my family, to enjoy the game as a spectator and try what life is like without being up all night thinking of game plans, drills and plays.

At St. Louis Community College, she posted a record of 204-90. Along with that winning percentage of 69.4 percent, came STLCC win number 200 and career win number 500. Both of those milestones came on February 2, 2017. She guided the Lady Archers to a six National Junior College Athletic Association Division II Region XVI Titles in her 10 years at the school. Her 2016-2017 team was arguably the best of her coaching career as they would finish fifth in the country and the Ethridge-coached team earned the B.J. Graber Sportsmanship Award. The 1985 Mater Dei graduate and former New Baden resident also supported cancer research during her coaching career as she would have an annual Cancer Benefit Game. She also supported cancer research in other ways.

Individually, a total of 11 STLCC athletes reached the individual pinnacle, being named a NJCAA Division II All-American. Of the athletes that played for her in those 10 years, 60 would find their way to a four-year school and another womens basketball team with a chance to complete a four-year career.

She started her coaching career at Belleville Area College, now known as Southwestern Illinois College with a 109-45 record. It would be her only Illinois coaching stop. Before turning 30 years old, she would take the reigns of the University of Missouri-St. Louis. The former Mater Dei and Eastern Illinois University player, who took over a program that was 5-22 during the 1996-97 season, guided them to a 14-12 mark in her first season.

She would post a winning record four of her six years at the NCAA Division II program. In the Great Lakes Valley Conference, she would post a .500 or better record in three of the seasons. The best effort of the six year period, both overall and in the league, was during the 1999-2000 season, when they were 19-11 overall and 14-6 in the GLVC. Ethridge would finish the six-year stint with an overall mark of 84-80.

When you are around Shelly, you simply aspire to be better and work hard, said Melanie Marcy, who was an assistant for Ethridge at UMSL, Whitfield, STLCC and was a player for Ethridge at UMSL. She constantly gives it her all. Her passion and commitment are two of her personality traits that jump out immediately. She has been an extremely positive influence in my life and in the lives of many.

At the high school level, she would coach at Whitfield High School in St. Louis and proved herself equally adept at coaching at that level, compiling 108 victories against 36 defeats.

After coaching at the high school level for a few years, I really respect what high school coaches are able to do with the hand they are dealt, said Ethridge. As a college coach, I got to select the hand I am dealt. It was a total different dynamic than high school. My years at the high school level were extremely important and a learning moment for me as well as the athletes that I was coaching. I have always loved the college game as it is like putting together a puzzle. You want to recruit players that share your attitude, enthusiasm, love for the game and work ethic. That is the first step.

Overall, the 5-foot-7 Ethridge finished with a career coaching record of 505-251 in her 28 years at the helm of the various teams. She coached 10 women to All-American status. In the classroom, 14 of her athletes were named All-Americans on the academic level. She made national tournament appearances a total of four times on the NJCAA level and once at the NCAA Division II level. Those efforts led to her being named Coach of the Year a total of eight times in her career.

When I started coaching, I knew it was something I loved and it is all I wanted to do, said the former NCAA Division I player. I was taught to give everything I had when I committed to something. It sounds simple, but the combination of the love of the game, hard work and kids of good character, most of the time good things will happen.

As a player, she was one of the players that helped start the Mater Dei Knights Girls Basketball Program in 1982. Ethridge along with Trenton native Barb Perkes and Lebanon product Stacy Frierdichs, formed a Knight Threesome that liked each other and played together so well that all three were recruited and were teammates at Eastern Illinois University as well.

Shelly has and always has had a brilliant basketball mind, said Perkes. She has a fierce determination to win and motivates her players to give 110 percent on the court. She does it the right way. Not only that, everyone loves being around Shelly. I have known her for 40 years and that has not changed about her.

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Mater Dei Graduate Named to the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame - Herald Pubs

Is Were hella poor the inverse of I walked uphill, both ways, in bread bag shoes?

Maybe theres something to that old-time religion death and life are in the power of the tongue stuff after all. Because I swear, if I have to read one more accredited, empirical study about how yes everyone who grew up with frosted tips and those weird, tiny sunglasses really is as poor as they say, Ill be hospitalized with Terminal Sigh Syndrome.

Seems like starting a preemptive GoFundMe might be a good idea, because the stories are going nowhere faster than any given water-treading public school teacher. New data from the U.S. Government indicates that wealth is shrinking faster for the Millennial generation than any other in the past.

Weve been through this for the past decade. College costs are up. Housing costs are up. Fuel costs are up. Employed experience requirements are up. Yet wages are being held down like employers nationwide are ride or die chicks gone horribly wrong. Bubbles are expanding and thinning every which way you look, and level 0 economics students can suss out how effed we are.

The cry heard through all of age group 23-38 has been rising like our sea levels. Now, with the Federales information blast on generational wealth and lack thereof adding to the pile, inflation porn just took on a whole new, SFW meaning.

But its not safe for work is it? No ones work is safe. No ones money is safe. Even The Man says so.

Think the implications of these volumes upon volumes of findings only spell doom for the young and the fundless? Think again, dear reader.

Im already seeing it now, and so are you. Fast food places are proudly sticking Start at $10, $12, $15 per hour next to their hiring signs. Apartments are running move-in specials for years on end, and pushing resident referrals like they were caught in a Scentsy scheme.

Smell that? Its desperation.

People around my age, people with the dwindling modal income of people around my age, and the poor Gen Zers watching my generation yell at their grandparents are getting wise. We know that our apartment complexes arent at capacity. We know that no one else can take this demanding job without our skills. Sure, were stuck. But the adhesive is beginning to trickle upwards. This is whats going to happen to employers:

They will have a workforce of well-off, well-educateds who will leave you after the raises dont come because they have access to the best financial advice, and a safety cushion.

They will be bereft of admin, cleaning, and maintenance staff, because the younger generation cant afford to live where you need them.

They will have to accept that this means theyll either lose time by doing things like booking their own flights, or theyll have to suck it up and start paying people more.

This is whats going to happen to landlords:

Their properties are going to stand empty longer.

Non-disparagement lease clauses are going to get ignored just like they ignore busted mailboxes.

They will have to accept that this means theyre losing money as less moneyed people flee the areas they concentrated their buying in, and moneyed people end up not filling the gap because those areas are for poors, and their investments will stop making returns.

No matter how you feel about the issues, the fact remains: The combination of degree creep, economic inflation, wage stagnation, rising costs of living, lack of thorough public services, and us snowflakes being BLASTED with trustworthy news about all of it on such a regular basis means you either are or are dealing with a generation constantly on the edge, and increasingly collaborating on locating outs instead of competing for crummy ins.

The crabs have stopped trying to climb each other out of the bucket, and were daring the cook to put his hand in here and make our claw-clickin day.

And unless our elders and richers are reaching out with a good salary/benefits/non-crumbling countertop attached to some tongs, these paranoid pincers are going to nip em up GOOD.

Weve got all the documentation. The pudding is 100% proofed, and ready for flambing.

Howsabout we throw a match, and get it off the table already?

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Wow! The maker scene has brought us a functional Batman grappling hook - The American Genius