By Benjamin Liang, staff writer
After dedicating countless hours for the past 5 seasons, varsity basketball assistant coach, Stephen Tee, has decided to move on from coaching at Galileo to pursue a higher level of coaching at the collegiate level. Coach Tee’s dedication to the basketball program comes partly because he is a Galileo alumni that helped the Lions win their last AAA championship in basketball in 2004.
According to the players and other coaches, Coach Tee did more than just coach basketball. He built relationships with each and every one of the players by genuinely getting to know them, often giving rides to/back from games and practices. He also often provided lunch on game days, set up post weekend meals for team bonding purposes, and
“He would do extra things that aren’t required. Coming in as an assistant coach and becoming an associate head coach. Spending his own money on things that can help players outside of the game, such as bringing lunch for players on game days and setting up post practice meals. As well as spending his own time helping players develop, like visiting colleges, and providing extra workout sessions,” said varsity coach, Mark Huynh.
Many of the players also have nothing but great things to say about Coach Tee. Senior Jimmy Y, said, “Coach Tee was like a big brother and a role model, he was not only a great coach but a great person in general. He was supportive and really just wanted each player to succeed,” while 10th grader, Darryn Wong, added, “Coach Tee is an awesome coach! He taught me many things that developed me to become the player I am today. Coach Tee would always give me advice and rides to games/practices when I needed it. I am grateful to have a coach like him.”
Coach Tee was happy to give back to the program because, according to him, what he cherishes most is the comradery between the coaches and the players. He knows the importance of the care for each teammate and coach on the team, the bond teammates create throughout the season, and most importantly the lifelong relationships/friendships that will bring players and coaches together five, ten, fifteen years later.
Coach Tee’s motivation has always been about giving back. He said,“I’ve always wanted to give back to the school that provided me opportunities and experiences. I want to give back to the game I love, and also help young men on and off the court; sharing my knowledge of the game.”
