Neil Sunday at work and play.
I have a special appreciation for all the men and women that volunteer their time to guide our children through the ins and outs of the various sports they play. As a former coach myself, I know what a difficult job it can be. First and foremost, you need to have a pretty good grasp on all aspects of your sport and be able to teach it in a way that can be understood by children and young adults. However teaching the fundamentals of a sport is really just a small part of the job. As a coach you also have to be a psychologist, a statistician, a politician, a resource manager, and motivational speaker just to name a few. More importantly though, a coach has to be a positive role model and a mentor.
Once an a while I have the pleasure of meeting someone that just seems to encompass anything and everything that we, as parents, would ever want for our children in a coach. In my opinion Neal Sunday is that kind of person. He’s my “kind of person.” Although my children are not snowboarders and have no specific contact with this Neil, I do know him and have had the pleasure of watching him interact with the kids in his program for several years.
image of Neil Sunday courtesy of Ski Roundtop Racing Club copyright 2010
Neal is coach with the Ski Roundtop Racing Club Snowboard Team, a 2007 Master’s National Champion, and Level 3 Certified Coach. So yep, Neil’s got some cred. However, beyond the titles, the trophies, medals, and accolades, Neil is just simply an uncomplicated, humble, and awesome individual. Every time I see him he’s got a smile on his face and an attitude to match. I can speak from personal experience that while he’s on “the hill” Neil’s always there to lend a hand to anyone who needs it. And for me a true measure of his success is in being able to impart those same qualities along to all the kids under his guidance.
So if you’re lucky enough to know Neil Sunday tell him “thanks” next time you see him. If you don’t know Neil then why not just send you favorite coach an email thanking them for everything they do for your child? I’m sure they would appreciate the gesture.
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