Long after our players forget how to block “Power Read” or to “make a coverage check versus an empty set,” our goal is that they will still remember the life lessons they learned both on and off the field. It is a coach’s responsibility to build teams, win games, and develop student-athletes of character who give back to their community now, and for years to come.
This past weekend was an outstanding community outreach opportunity for our team. It marked the eighth year our team gathered on a Sunday morning in late September, to support the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Eight years ago, we were the only sports team to join the walk. This year, every Fall team at the Academy, one winter team, our local Pop Warner football team, and a team from another school followed our lead and joined in supporting the walk. I’d like to think we helped set an example and developed a little momentum encouraging others to join the Fight against Alzheimer’s and raise awareness of other opportunities for community service.
Aside from participating in the walk and having a strong visual presence at the event, we ask each player to consider a small donation of their own money to the cause. Just as we sacrifice for one another on the field, it’s my hope traditions like this one encourage teammates to sacrifice for others long after the last whistle. I have told players for many years, “the hand that gives gathers.”
Coach Rich Alercio is available to discuss coaching philosophy, X’s & O’s, or teach his O-Line “techniques in the trenches.” Contact Coach at richalercio@gmail.com and share http://www.olineskills.com with your colleagues and friends. Thanks for supporting this blog and joining our conversations, and as always, thanks for your time!
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