Hinsdale High School Teachers Association

The Holidays are quickly approaching and I have been very fortunate to have received an early present this year.  As I was standing on top the press box freezing, scouting our potential opponent from the Bartlett vs Main South 8A Semi-Final game, I got the news that our Red Devil football team had advanced to the State Finals.  Suddenly, the cold temperatures disappeared and the feeling in my feet slowly returned. As I drove back from my scouting,  I started to think about how so many had to give of themselves so that I and others could receive this gift. As customary when receiving it is only appropriate to say thank you.  However, my thank you list is very long.

First, I would like to thank the athletes for all of their hard work, time and patience.  It was their self sacrifice which started in June that brought us to this point.  Secondly, without the aid and support of their parents this would have been much more difficult to achieve.  We cannot forget to mention the trainers, grounds crew, the support staff, faculty, administrators, and the enthusiasm of the cheerleaders and fans through out the entire season.

As a coach myself, I would like to give a special thanks to the entire varsity coaching staff and their families.  The coaching staff worked seven days a week for five weeks beyond the regular season to make it to the State Final.  However, the most important thanks need to go out to the coach’s families.  They gave the most precious gift of the season in the form of time away from their loved ones.  The gift of time through caring and giving can never be wrapped as a present, but what a great gift it is.  Teachers and coaches as well as all of those working in any area of education give this gift throughout the whole year.

So thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of you in this world who give of themselves as this is the best gift anyone can receive.