Shocking: High School Officiating Coaches Make a Real Difference

The Impact of Coaches on Young Athletes

As a former athlete and sports editor, I have had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the profound impact that coaches can have on young athletes. From shaping their careers to instilling valuable life lessons, coaches play a vital role in the development of young athletes.

The Author’s Personal Experience: A Humble Beginning

My own experience as a young basketball player was marked by a deep appreciation for the coaches who guided me. I played for the Baby Blue Devils, the freshman team at Fredonia State, under the leadership of veteran coach John Szczerbacki. Despite our losing record, Coach Szczerbacki’s kindness, patience, and dedication to his players left an indelible mark on me.

I may not have been the most talented player, but Coach Szczerbacki saw something in me that I didn’t – potential. He encouraged me to work hard, to push myself beyond my limits, and to never give up. Those valuable lessons have stayed with me to this day, and I am forever grateful to Coach Szczerbacki for his influence.

The Role of Coaches in Shaping Athletes’ Careers

Coaches like Ed Bailey, a legendary coach from Clymer, demonstrate the profound impact that coaches can have on young athletes. Coach Bailey’s dedication to his players, his community, and the sport of basketball is a testament to the power of coaching. His legacy extends far beyond the court, inspiring generations of athletes to come.

As a coach, Bailey’s influence went beyond the X’s and O’s of the game. He was a mentor, a role model, and a father figure to many of his players. His commitment to his athletes’ development, both on and off the court, is a shining example of the impact that coaches can have on young lives.

A Legendary Coach’s Lasting Influence

Ed Bailey’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive win-loss record or his numerous accolades. His impact on the lives of countless young athletes, including my own, is a testament to the power of coaching.

Ed Bailey: A Coaching Icon in Clymer

As a record-setting basketball all-star turned successful coach, Ed Bailey’s influence on the sport of basketball in Clymer is undeniable. His dedication to his players, his community, and the sport is a shining example of the impact that coaches can have on young lives.

But Coach Bailey’s influence extends far beyond the court. His commitment to his athletes’ development, both on and off the court, is a testament to the power of coaching. He was a mentor, a role model, and a father figure to many of his players.

As I reflect on my own experience as a young athlete, I am reminded of the profound impact that coaches like Ed Bailey and John Szczerbacki had on my life. Their influence extended far beyond the confines of the court, shaping me into the person I am today.

The Power of Positive Coaching: A Lasting Legacy

Coaches can and do make a difference in the lives of their players, and it’s not just about winning games or championships. Positive coaching can leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the playing field.

As a former high school basketball player, I can attest to the impact that a good coach can have on a player’s development and confidence. My own experience playing for Coach John Szczerbacki at Fredonia State was a testament to the power of positive coaching.

Lessons from the Sidelines

The Author’s Short-Lived Basketball Career: A Lesson in Humility

I was never going to be a standout player, but I loved the game and competition. I came to practice every day and didn’t give Coach Szczerbacki any problems. My position was third-string center, but I eventually earned some court time and distinguished myself with a 10-point night against Canadian college Guelph University.

My biggest claim to fame that season came one night when we played at Edinboro State College in Edinboro, Pennsylvania. Prior to the game, we found a copy of their team guide and discovered that their two tallest recruits and future stars were playing that night. We were toast, but Coach Szczerbacki called my name and I went into the game on a foul shot.

I committed three fouls in three seconds, possibly a world record. On my long, embarrassing walk back to the bench, I passed the scorers table and everyone was laughing hysterically. That didn’t help. When I reached Coach Szczerbacki, he said he was sorry, but had to take me out of the game.

Coach John Szczerbacki: A Gentleman and a Great Coach

Coach Szczerbacki was one of the finest gentlemen I have ever had the pleasure of knowing in my life. Helluva nice guy. Great coach. He had previously coached both me and my brother, Tom, in grade school at St. Mary’s on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk.

He was a master teacher who knew how to get the best out of his players. He was patient, kind, and understanding, and he always put his players first. He was the kind of coach who would take the time to talk to you about your game, to offer advice and encouragement, and to help you develop your skills.

The Art of Coaching: More than Just X’s and O’s

Building Relationships: The Key to Successful Coaching

Building relationships with your players is key to successful coaching. It’s not just about drawing up plays and calling timeouts; it’s about understanding your players’ strengths and weaknesses, and helping them to develop their skills and confidence.

Coach Szczerbacki was a master at building relationships. He took the time to get to know each of his players, to understand their unique strengths and weaknesses, and to help them to develop their skills and confidence. He was a coach who cared deeply about his players, and who was always willing to go the extra mile to help them succeed.

The Importance of Mentorship in Athlete Development

Mentorship is critical in athlete development. A good coach can provide guidance, support, and encouragement, and help their players to develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed.

Coach Szczerbacki was a mentor who inspired me to become a better player and a better person. He taught me the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and he showed me that with the right attitude and effort, anything is possible.

Lessons from the Sidelines

A Lesson in Humility

I was reminded of my sister Mary’s oft-repeated description of my dad: “My dad was the nicest man I ever met.” He’s not the only one who thinks that. My dad was a former seminarian who always made it a point to talk to people, to listen to their stories, and to offer a helping hand. He was a man of great faith, and he always put others before himself.

I was also reminded of the story of my officiating career, when I was chosen to work a Class D semifinal game between Brocton and Clymer in the then newly constructed Cassadaga Valley Central School gym. Apparently I was a compromise pick, as the officials rated above me were either unavailable or disqualified for various reasons.

After the game, I returned to the locker room to change clothes and shower. Suddenly there was a knock on the door. My officiating partner answered it, and said there were some Clymer fans out in the hallway who wanted to see me. They had questions only I could answer. Yikes! I was more than a little bit concerned.

But as it turned out, the Clymer fans were elderly and harmless. They introduced themselves and asked me a question: “Are you related to referee Mark Hammond of Dunkirk?” “Yes,” I admitted, and asked “Why?” It turned out that my dad was their all-time favorite referee, and they were pleased I had followed in his footsteps.

They then asked if I was the son who was on crutches as a young boy, and I nodded affirmatively. When I inquired how they knew so much about my family, they explained that my dad had spent time talking to their now-deceased son, who would sit courtside and cheer for his hometown team. My dad always made it a point to talk with him and his parents, and they eventually learned about his family back in Dunkirk.

We parted with promises to convey their gratitude to my dad and offer to look them up whenever I had a game in Clymer. I passed on their kind thoughts to my dad back at the OBSERVER office later that night. He was sad to hear of his young friend’s passing, and even said a short prayer for the boy.