More than just a Coach and Teacher
The summer after my sophomore year in high school my Dad was killed in an accident. This was of course a huge shock to everyone and at 15 was very difficult for me to deal with. We were in the middle of our softball season and my coach, Denny Johnson, North Scott High School, Eldridge, Iowa, was the most understanding and kind person I could have had in my life at the time. There are many things I don't remember about this time but I do remember Coach Johnson visiting with me and telling me to take whatever time I needed but that whenever I needed to be back with the team I was welcome. Once the school year started, Coach Johnson was also my driver's education teacher. One day during class he asked me to leave the room and help him with a project. I didn't really know why and of course was happy to get out of class. I later found out that the class was going to view graphic accident videos and he didn't want me to see them since I had lost my father only a few months prior. Coach Johnson is an amazing coach! He taught us how to play the game, gave us praise for doing well and held us accountable for not holding up our end of the deal. Nothing comes easy and no one will just hand you anything. To this day I still hustle on and off the field and know that you practice like you play so always give your best.
He also taught us values and demonstrated them daily in his own life and with his family. He was always a supportive person that truly has a heart of gold which while he can be tough when he needs to be, he sincerely cares about his players and students. I learned a great deal from this and hope that I am able to 'pay this forward' in my life as well.
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