Coach Williams

Coach Williams

“Hey, kid with red shirt,” called Coach Williams.

All the kids looked at their shirts, Jeff’s was red. He walked over, nervous.

“Sorry,” coach said, “I forgot your name. Actually, I forget everybody’s name at the beginning. It’s a lot of names to remember.”

Getting no response from Jeff, he added, “I’m getting everybody a start with what they want to do the most. You’ll all learn all the positions of all the sports eventually, but I think starting where you want helps. Do you have a favorite?”

“I don’t think so…”

“Good, I’ll put you wherever you fit to start, OK? What’s your name?”

“Jeff… Bennett…”

Well, Jeff Bennett, you’ll learn all the positions in the next couple months. You’ll probably like one or two the best. So, if you do, you let me know and we’ll make sure you get those positions a lot. It makes gym class more fun. OK?”

“OK.”

Coach tried not to chuckle. He was used to some of the kids being shy, but this one was major shy. He probably had no interest in sports at all, some don’t. It was a requirement in gym class though, so Coach Williams always tried to make it easy as possible for everyone to enjoy.

Over the four years Jeff had Physical Education with Coach Williams, he learned about many sports, and he was good at them. Though he remained very shy, he bonded with Coach, even after changing to a different school for fifth grade, he always went back to see Coach Williams, ask questions and enjoying the company.

When Coach Williams retired, they were still friends. And when Jeff’s team won the Super Bowl, Jeff made Coach's day by dedicating his powers to the man he’s known, and loved, since first grade.