posted on Thursday, October 10, 2013
A few kind words from the Ed Thomas Coach of the Week…
I was honored to be selected the Oct. 3, Ed Thomas Coach of the Week. To simply have my name spoken in the same sentence with Coach Thomas is a humbling experience and makes my heart swell with pride. I learned from several of my coaches at Twin Rivers High School, the value of hard work and the importance of Faith and Family. As I started my coaching career, I looked to more experienced coaches for advice, and simply watched some do their work, and how they did their work. I learned very quickly that the relationships built with the kids were so important to my success, and more importantly, the success of the team and the kids. When I moved to eastern Iowa, Coach Thomas was one of those coaches who embodied all of those things into one.
I never met Coach Thomas, but always had the utmost respect for him, what he attempted to teach his kids, and the man that he was. I remember exactly where I was when I first heard of Coach Thomas’ death. It was total shock and disbelief.
I would like to thank the Thomas Family for establishing the Ed Thomas Family Foundation to keep the legacy of a great man alive. And to thank the foundation for the honor bestowed upon me. I will always attempt to uphold the values of Ed Thomas in working with my kids.
It’s All For the Kids,
Dan Kiley
Anamosa High School