by Benjamin L, Staff Writer
Something from my highschool experience that will leave a remarkable impression for me is the relationships I have built with my basketball coaches.These relationships will hopefully be life time long because I deeply value them. They are a big reason I will positively look back to high school and be able to say that I met some amazing people that influenced my life for the better.
First I’m going to start off with Coach Kyle. I met him for the first time during the workouts in the summer going into 9th grade. I came in not knowing anybody and was shy, but Coach Kyle walked me through the workouts and made sure I was doing well. He isn’t a person that talks much, but I can really tell that deep down, he wants the best for me, the team and everyone else. Although he is a JV coach, he is also always involved with the varsity program as well, often going from a JV game to a Varsity on the same day. I’ll always remember his willingness to sacrifice for the basketball program and players.
Next up is Coach Mark, he is a man with many talents. Basketball, volleyball and art just to name a few. I met him during the first few days of freshman year, while he was already in the weightroom working out with the basketball team. I was kinda afraid of him in the beginning like many would agree. But he slowly became a person I can talk to about anything. Even when I was on JV, he was always supportive and guiding me on whatever it was I needed to improve on. Our relationship has grown in the past 2 years, from understanding each other within the basketball game and wanting the same goal for the season. Something I will always remember about him is his understandingness and support for other people.
Coach Tee is a personal favorite because of his involvement with me outside of Galileo basketball. Coming out of quarantine is when I first met him, and contacted him for workouts. He was super willing to work with me, not because he saw my potential or anything but simply because he wants the best for everyone. He exposed me to many different opportunities which led to many unique experiences, such as basketball workouts, camps, events and open gyms. It was a pleasure to learn from him and we will definitely continue to build our relationship even after high school. I will always remember Coach Tee for his devotion to the program and sacrifices for the players no matter what it takes.
Last but not least, Coach Lee. He is one that I have just recently got closer with, ever since he invited me to his open gyms and workouts. I’ve really enjoyed his companionship and support. He is always there when I need something, no matter if it’s something about basketball or not. Spending the summer with him was really influential, I benefited from building a relationship with him also while improving in basketball. Additionally building a relationship with his son, Nate. Nate is currently going into 9th grade and I’m excited to see what he’ll become. I will always remember the guidance and encouragement he gives me for different and difficult situations.