After all the varsity letters and pins had been distributed, after the post-season awards were announced, and after our seniors were recognized for their contributions, we closed our annual football banquet with a moment of gratitude. Our captains offered thanks to the heads of our Friends of Football Booster Club—Bea and Len Harden—whose quiet, consistent service strengthens the fabric of our program.
Bea and Len open their home to our players for pre-game meals, creating a positive and welcoming environment where student-athletes can gather, share time together, and celebrate their brotherhood. They organize fundraisers, steward our resources with care, and keep the lines of communication open with every family in our program. Their efforts ensure that parents feel informed, involved, and invited into the shared work of supporting the team. Just as importantly, they have helped build a system that can be handed down year after year, allowing the organization to thrive even as players graduate and families move on.
Their tireless work lifts a tremendous burden from my shoulders as head coach and gives me more time to focus on preparing our players—not just for Friday nights, but for the challenges that await them beyond the field. Our coaching staff helps turn a group of individuals into a team. Our parents’ group helps turn that team into a family.
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!
Please enjoy some additional photos of the 2025 Hilltoppers, a group of exceptional teammates!
O Line Skills 