Huntley High coaches mean so much

Our five children have been three-season athletes in District 158 and our family has spent a good part of our lives participating in or watching athletics events. We know that coaches teach a sport, develop young athletes and win/lose games. They teach the X’s and O’s; they encourage our children to get back up when they fall and continue to excel in the game.

Coaches also teach the things beyond any text book and with practical application. Many coaches instill strong character and leadership traits in athletes and many are solid role models and leaders for our children.

It is important for all of us to remember and acknowledge that coaches were there with our children during and after 911, comforting and easing their fears, while pushing aside their own.

They work with student-athletes to help with grades and they are there to listen and help with personal problems. As our own children continue to move through life and work through personal victories and challenges, we can see the impact of so many coaches in their past and the lessons taught on the field, the court or the mat.

These young men and women we call coaches give up time with their families and friends to work long hours building teams and young athletes and at times deal with some pretty difficult parents and fans. All for a relatively small stipend. The reality is that they willingly give to something greater than themselves.

For that, we are grateful and extend our sincere thanks to Huntley High School Athletic Director Bruce Blumer and the many coaches of District 158.

David and Donna Larkin

Huntley