Rotarian, Tim Kinsler, introduced speaker, Pat Lewis, (right) at the Rotary luncheon March 28th. Pat gave an inspiring talk about his 40 years of coaching experiences. Pat grew up in Emporium, graduating from CCHS and then Clarion University with a degree in Elementary Education. Shortly after graduating from Clarion University, he received a job offer to teach 2nd grade at Woodland Elementary, along with the stipulation that he coach a high school girls basketball team.
Up to this time, no male teacher had ever taught a grade below 5th grade or coached girls basketball. After many ups and downs, he wound up with a winning JV team. After Mr. Kinsler retired and resigned as the boy’s Junior High coach, Pat filled the position. The first year was disheartening with a 0-15 record, second year 1-17 and he thought of resigning, but stayed on. Pat thought back to 7th grade when he tried out for basketball and was cut, then in 8th grade made the team, but in 9th was cut again from the team and remembered Mr. Kinsler telling him “Pat, you just didn’t put in the time”. Pat said “when I got older, I understood and respected what Mr. Kinsler had said back then.” After that, Pat got the team motivated and they started winning 70% of their games. Pat’s philosophy as a coach has been “putting self above others” and emphasized how athletics are so important teaching youth following:
How to manage time efficiently
Body language speaks volumes
How to deal with pressure and stress
How to win with class and fail with dignity
Life is not fair and there will be tough times
Success requires sacrifice, preparation and hard work
Know your strengths and weaknesses
To be a leader you need to also be a follower
Must discipline yourself as only you are responsible for yourself
Respect everyone and working together achieves more
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