posted on Friday, October 21, 2011
The more I am around young people, the more I realize how important it is to be a model of good character. I was fortunate enough to have played football for Coach Thomas, as well as been a student of his at Aplington-Parkersburg. To say I am blessed would be a major understatement. Outside of my parents, Coach Thomas played a very influential role in my life. While football was what Coach was known for outside of Aplington and Parkersburg, it was only the tip of the iceberg. Coach’s main purpose as Head Football Coach at A-P was to develop strong character and work ethic in, not only the kids that he coached on the field, but any student he interacted with on a daily basis.
I now feel like I am in a unique situation. In the spring of 2010 I decided to follow coach’s words and “never forget where I came from” when I took over as Head Football Coach at Aplington-Parkersburg. I find it extremely difficult to continually remind our kids of the “big picture.” I am in a fortunate position where there are so many people that played for, or knew Coach that can constantly remind us to stay on the right path. Coach Thomas made it look so easy. As we all know, actions speak louder than words. Now more than ever, this world needs all people to SHOW good character, not just talk about it. Character is not a some time thing, it is an all-the-time thing.
-Aplington-Parkersburg HS Head Football Coach, Alex Pollock