Reflections…

It was in my first year of high school that I learned some very valuable life information. It was in a class called “Guidance”. This class was meant to help us develop habits that would benefit us during our high school years. Our instructor, Mr. Seals, one day told us to find something that we really like to do…then find a way to get paid to do it. He stated that if we could do that, we would be content in our professional lives. I took Mr. Seals’ words to heart. I loved football, so I would find a way to get paid to do football.

In my young mind my thoughts took me to a future career as a football player in the National Football League. While football did take me through high school and college, my playing skills would take me no further. As reality set in, that my playing days were over, my thoughts moved towards coaching. Opportunities came quickly.

As I now enter my thirty-eighth year as an assistant football coach, I find myself recollecting a bit on the journey I have travelled the individuals I have worked with during my coaching career. It all began in the southwestern town of Silver City, New Mexico.

Head Coach Mike Drake hired me to be the assistant offensive line coach for Tim Jaureguito at Western New Mexico University. I had just graduated from the university and Coach J had been my offensive line coach during my senior season. I had liked Coach Drake since the first time I met him, so I considered it a great honor to work for him. He had been the one who recruited me from East Los Angeles College.

From Coach Drake I learned to truly care about the players…not only as athletes, but as individuals. His sense of humor was contagious and he was always willing to share it. We were only around each other for a few years, but I cherish the memories I have of our interactions. His wisdom and knowledge have continued to affect my caching all of these years later.

Coach Jaureguito taught me to think outside the box. I had learned that from him as a player as well. We didn’t have a “chute” at WNMU. This is a lightweight adjustable big metal frame-like device that linemen would run under which promotes low pad levels. No problem. Coach J had us run under two heavy low metal beams which supported the bleachers. Just one hit on either of those metal beams provided adequate incentive to stay low. We always wore helmets, but the metal beam did not give an inch…and the dirt and rocks underfoot made footing a bit unsure at times. Ingenuity at its finest. On another occasion Coach J had gotten frustrated with us offensive linemen using our heads too much while pass blocking. That day we were scheduled to have a one-on-one pass blocking drill with the defensive line. This was not out of the ordinary, but the instructions he gave as we began the drill were. He had us remove our helmets for the drill…and the drill was to be done at full-speed, while the defensive linemen wore their helmets. Talk about incentive to keep our heads out of our blocks! Us offensive linemen could easily be spotted at dinner that night. We were the ones with the facial abrasions, cuts, nicks, and swelling. Turned out to be a memorable pass blocking drill that day, but we learned the value in not using your head while pass blocking.

I’ll always be grateful for those gentlemen. Coach Drake & Coach J gave me my first opportunity in coaching and I learned so much under their tutelage. We’d be together just one season, but another opportunity arose for me back in Souther California.

While attending East Los Angeles College I worked at Huntington Park High School doing odds and ends in the offices. Marjorie O’Hanlon, the principal, had always treated me well and I really liked her. While I was in Silver City one day she called the football office to speak with me. She wanted to hire me as a teacher and assistant football coach. What an offer! She gave me a week to think things over. A week later I called her and accepted the great opportunity she had offered.

At Huntington Park High School I was the line coach…both offense and defense. Under the tutelage of Dwight Muskrath (head coach) and Al Parkhill (defensive coordinator) I learned so much. There were just the three of us coaching the varsity football team and I needed to expand my overall knowledge of football, not just line play. Patiently each coach guided me towards newfound knowledge. After two seasons another opportunity was presented to return home.

Al Padilla had been my offensive line coach at ELAC. He was a legendary coach in East Los Angeles who had success at both the high school and community college levels. Coach Padilla was hired as Head Coach as the program was to begin anew after being dropped for some years. Coach offered me the position of offensive line coach. What an opportunity!

For two years I was the offensive line coach for Coach Padilla…the man who had introduced me to college foot\ball. It was a humbling experience. I leaned so much from him. He patiently taught me so much in the quiet time after practice when we were the only ones in the office. Coach Padilla never told me what to do. Instead he opened my eyes and helped me expand. Coach’s father-like advice and instruction I will always treasure. He taught me to have proper priorities. Football was nice, but there’s also a life outside of football that should be lived and enjoyed…not neglected. Coach Padilla is definitely a mentor that not only positively impacted my coaching…he positively impacted my life.

Coach Padilla helped open the door to my next opportunity in coaching when he mentioned my name to a legendary coach in the Antelope Valley. Coach had known Brent Carder for years. He let Coach Carder knew that I had moved to the Antelope Valley and would be worth an interview. Several interviews later Coach Carder hired me as his offensive line coach at Antelope Valley College. I would hold that position until he retired seventeen years later. During that time my coaching expanded exponentially.

The coaching fraternity in the Antelope Valley at the time was a close knit group that all had ties to the area. I did not. I was an outsider and some coaches weren’t pleased that an outsider had been hired at AVC instead of one of them. Coach Carder didn’t care about any of that. What he wanted was someone who could coach and be a good person while doing so. He felt the I fit the bill and I am very grateful that he did. Under Coach’s tutelage I learned that keeping a level head, in a game often filled with emotions, could prove to be a most valuable asset. His professional way of handling things left one feeling confident that all was under control and things would work out. Coach’s work ethic was second to none. So many times he could be found in the office after hours working. There was no time clock for him when it came to bettering his football team. I saw him lose his cool at practice, but rarely in a game. Coach would end things on a positive note, no matter how things were going. His emotions were always kept in check around the program. Only a few times did I see emotions come to the surface with Coach. Each time caught my attention and helped me learn a better perspective of Brent Carder, the man, and the man I wanted to be. After being the head coach at AVC for 36 years Coach Carder retired and another opportunity came up for me.

Perry Jehlicka had been hired to replace a legend. In his first head coaching position, Perry got to work and turned around a program that had come upon hard times. He chose to keep all of us that had been on Coach Carder’s coaching staff. I was moved to coach defensive line. Thanks to Perry I learned the game from a different perspective. For five years I was the defensive line coach at AVC. During that time we had a lot of success as a team. Then, I was moved back to coach offensive line.

All told, I spent 25 years coaching at Antelope Valley College. With the five years coaching experience I brought with me, I felt that thirty years was enough and I decided to retire from coaching. A season later my mind was changed and another opportunity arose.

James Vondra was the head coach at Quartz Hill High School and he offered me the offensive line coaching position on his staff. After much thought I accepted and I’m sure grateful for the opportunity. During the next six years we experienced historical success. James had a great coaching staff and it was my honor to be part of it. Someone I consider to be a good friend, James Vondra is as knowledgeable and caring as they come. I felt so comfortable on his staff that I figured that QHHS would be the last placed I would coach…then James chose to step down as head coach. That changed everything for me, but another opportunity arose.

Perry Jehlicka offered me an opportunity to return to AVC. What a great opportunity! I jumped at it and now am entering my second years back on Perry’s staff.

I now pause just a few days before we open fall camp and begin practicing in earnest for the upcoming season. Season #38 for me. I’ve worked for six head coaches. I’ve worked at six schools. I’ve been a Mustang, Spartan, Husky, Marauder, Rebel, Royal, and once again a Marauder. I haven’t been fired from a coaching position. I haven’t been the oldest on any staff I’ve been on and only once I’ve been the youngest. Two of the head coaches I’ve worked for are younger than me. It’s been a great ride that will go on for another season.

Number 38?!?! Who would have ever believed it? Not me, but I am so grateful I’ve had the opportunity to be part of such a fine profession. There is no doubt it has influenced my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

Coach Drake

It was the Spring of 1983 when I first met the man who would prove to be a strong influence in my life for the next few years. Coach Mike Drake was the defensive coordinator for Western New Mexico University at the time. He was recruiting football players on the community college campus that I attended. A relatively short interchange of pleasantries proved to be only the beginning of a relationship which made me better.

The following months saw me receiving many phone calls from Coach Drake, which eventually led to an offer to play for the Mustangs. Only being able to hear his voice while we conversed, still I was left with the strong impression that he really cared about me as an individual…not just another football player. I would learn that he left the same impression with countless football coaches and players over his coaching career. My experiences with him over time would show that his caring was not simply an act.

After seriously considering my options, I chose to accept the offer to play football for the next two seasons at Western New Mexico University, which is located in the small southwestern town of Silver City, New Mexico. Unlike some recruits, I did not make a prior visit to the campus. I simply showed up on the day we were supposed to report for preseason camp. I was operating on faith that the conditions in this small-town university could be no worse than those I had lived through while serving a Church mission in Guatemala a couple of years previous. I had also became to really trust in Coach Drake.

Coach Drake was in charge of recruiting players from the community colleges in the Los Angeles, California area. He brought many of us to campus and made us feel welcome. I didn’t play on defense, I was an offensive lineman, but that didn’t matter to Coach Drake as he always treated us players very well…no matter what position we played. Once the season was over he continued to show us that he cared. During the Thanksgiving break he and his wife Pat hosted those of us who had not gone home for the holiday. They provided a nice Thanksgiving meal at their home and we watched college football on ESPN afterwards. Both Coach and Pat definitely showed that they cared for us. It was much appreciated.

At the end of my first season at WNMU the head coach of the team was fired amongst some rules violation allegations. A search committee was formed and the hunt for the next head coach began. Many of us on the team thought the search should be a quick one as we felt that Coach Drake should be the next head coach. I mentioned that to one of my professors when he asked my thoughts on the search for a head coach. He advised me to form a letter stating the team’s position and have team members sign the letter. After that he would make sure the letter got to where it would be useful. Turns out that the professor was on the search committee.

We followed my professor’s instructions and submitted the letter. Eventually Coach Drake was named the next head football coach. The team was pleased, but the work had just begun.

The early morning workouts on campus were taking place previously as Coach Drake told us no matter who the head coach would be, we needed to prepare for the upcoming season. Once Coach was named the head man, these morning routines evolved into more strenuous workouts in the afternoon. Intense running workouts had some of us wondering if we had made a wise choice in endorsing Coach Drake as the head coach. I, for one, had never run so much in my life. I had always worked hard, but Coach Drake had me pushing myself beyond where I had ever imagined going. I went home for the Summer in the best shape of my life!

Right before the semester ended, each player had a one-on-one meeting with Coach Drake. As head coach he was going to also now be the offensive coordinator. In our meeting I expressed my desire to play right offensive tackle since that is where we tended to run the ball during games. Patiently he listened and said that he understood, but he needed his best one-on-one blocking offensive tackle to be on the left side and that is where he wanted me to be. Not appreciating being relegated to the left side, I believed in Coach Drake. I vowed to come back to preseason camp and be the best left tackle I could be.

That second season would see Coach Drake as the youngest head coach in college football. He was only three years older than me. That season did not get off to a good start. We were put on probation mere days before our first game, by the powers that be, due to the actions of the previous head coach. We players felt it unfair as none of us had broken any rules and were not part of any of the violations. There was nothing we could do. Coach Drake’s first year as head coach would be under challenging circumstances.

We got off to a rocky start by losing our first two non-conference games. Games we probably should have not lost, but our minds weren’t right. Once conference play began, we had righted the ship and proceeded not to lose another game the rest of the season. As part of our probation, we were not allowed to participated in postseason play, but nonetheless the season was a success.

Coach Drake and his coaching staff held us together. They kept us focused. We worked hard in practices. We ran hard in practices. We were in good shape. We had a good team. We had a good head coach that we believed in. We had a head coach who made each of us feel cared for.

After the Spring semester of 1985 I graduated. My family had made the drive from the LA area to be there. Coach Drake made the short drive from his home to be there. It was a good day. I was ready to return home and begin my teaching and coaching career. Little did I know that my path would change a bit…due to Coach Drake.

I got a Summer job and was taking the necessary steps in order to begin my teaching and coaching career in the Los Angeles Unified School District, when I received a phone call with an offer I would find hard to refuse. On the other end of the line was Coach Tim Jauregiuto. Coach J was the offensive line coach during my senior season. He was a very hard worker, and a great coach, with whom us on the offensive line had a love/hate relationship. We hated the work he had us do, but we loved the outcome on game days. I had shared with him plans on getting into coaching once I graduated. This phone call would alter my plans a bit.

Coach J informed me that my name came up when he was mentioning to Coach Drake that he would like to have an assistant offensive line coach. After much consideration, the offer was being extended to me. I was floored and speechless. Coach Drake then got on the line and confirmed the offer and that I’d have a week to think things over.

To begin my coaching career at the university level was more than I had ever imagined. And to have that opportunity offered by two men that I had come to revere and respect greatly. A week later, trusting in these two fine coaches, I accepted the offer. Then, a week before preseason camp I arrived back to Silver City to begin my coaching career.

I had always thought that football coaches put in much work. I had never, in my wildest dreams, imagined how long days of work could be. I had a week of crash-course learning which provided me with more knowledge of football than I had previously possessed. Then preseason camp opened and our days got longer as we coaches were up long before the team and we went to bed long after the team did. My hours of sleep were not long and I seemed to be operating in a stupor at times. The funny thing is…I was having a ball!

I learned early that year that coaching football was really what I wanted to do. Despite the long hours and fatigue, I was enjoying the experience. I learned so much from Coach Drake and Coach J. Our whole staff got along together well and we worked hard. Some working nights didn’t end until early mornings, but no complaints were heard. Coach Drake definitely provided me a different idea of WORK than I had before.

We didn’t have much success on the game field that season of 1985, but that season set the basis of my coaching career that is entering its thirty-eighth year. I continue to work hard, but 1985 showed me how hard I was capable of working. And I was not done with Coach Drake yet.

For the third straight year I spent Thanksgiving in Silver City and at the Drake home for dinner. Afterwards Coach told me he was driving to El Paso, Texas to do some Christmas shopping. He wasn’t taking his wife with him because he wanted to surprise her with what he purchased. He invited me along. What a good time I had! We visited the whole time he drove us to El Paso and back. We had a great time shopping and filled both of our holiday shopping lists. To top the day off, we went to the movie theater and watched the latest “Rocky” movie. This day was definitely one of my favorites with Coach Drake.

Another favorite time came earlier the next year. Coach’s wife had been pregnant and gave birth to a baby girl. Word was out that was why he wasn’t seen around campus as much. I talked a couple of friends into going to the hospital for a visit. We arrived and that beautiful baby of theirs seemed to light up the room. My friends, who had at first been skeptical, were glad we had made the visit. It’s the way I was raised. When someone you care for has something important take place in their life, you’re there for them. Some time earlier we had attended Coach J’s graduation with a Masters Degree. It’s the way I was raised.

During the Spring of 1986 I was offered a teaching and coaching position back in the Los Angeles area. I accepted and was set to return to LA once the school year finished at WNMU. Coach J was not able to be in town for Spring football. Coach Drake asked me to coach the offensive line during that period and before my return to LA. How could I turn down the offer from a man I had grown to love?

Having the opportunity to begin my coaching career at a university was humbling. I was grateful for the opportunity. Coaching on my own during Spring football was daunting, but I had been well-prepared by both Coach Drake and Coach J. Spring football went well as I continued my steep learning curve in offensive line play. At the end of the school year I returned to LA and began my career in teaching. Coach Drake then surprised me with another phone call.

Coach J was not going to be able to return for the upcoming season. He knew that it was late, but Coach Drake said that only one name came to his mind for a replacement. His offer was for me to become the offensive line coach at WNMU! My second year in coaching and I was being offered the chance to be in charge of the offensive line at the university level! WOW! My mind was reeling. The fact that Coach Drake trusted me that much meant so much to me. I just had one question for him. How long would he stay at WNMU? He answered honestly that he did not know. If a better opportunity came up, he would take it.

Respectfully I explained to him that I was moved around a lot as a child and that was not the life I wanted to be part of my future. He understood and wished me well. We would have to stay in touch were his words as we hung up our phones.

I was coaching at a southeastern LA high school, thus our games were on Fridays. I made plans to leave right after one of our games and drive to Silver City in order to catch a game on Saturday afternoon. I invited the girl I had been dating to share in the driving duties.

We arrived in time for the game. Coach Drake and his wife insisted that my date, who had become my fiancée earlier in the day, spend the night at their place. I had made other arrangements for myself. After my accommodations proved less than desirable, sheepishly I knocked on the Drake’s door and asked if I could sleep on their couch. Of course was their response. Coach Drake set me up and warned me that he didn’t want to hear me creeping to my fiancée’s room during the night. Always the man with a good sense of humor! He knew my old-fashioned ways and knew I would spend the night on the couch.

That was in 1986. My sweetheart and I were married in 1987. The following year we went on vacation to the east coast. We visited many historical sites and worked our way north after flying into Baltimore. Our destination was Providence, Rhode Island. Coach Drake was then the head coach at the US Naval Academy Prep School. He and his family now lived in Providence. We had a nice visit with he and his wife. Again they insisted that we stay the night at their house. Ever gracious, they both made us feel right at home. Sadly enough, that was the last time I was in contact with Coach Drake.

Life marches on and so do coaches. I ended up in the Antelope Valley of Los Angeles County. Coach Drake would go on to coach at the US Naval Academy, the University of Kentucky, and then at Kent State University. We lost touch with each other. Some years later we momentarily bumped into each other at a National Coaching Convention, but that was it.

It was the Spring of 2006. I was skimming over my WNMU Alumni News Letter when I spotted a headline that shook me to my core. While reading the article my mind found it hard to process that the previous August Coach Drake had passed away at the age of 48. Memories flooded my mind as my heart hurt. Even though we had not stayed in touch, Coach Drake had positively impacted my life and coaching career.

His influence set the foundation of what I have been able to accomplish in coaching football. I’m not a well-known coach, but I like to think that I have had a positive impact on the young men I have been privileged to coach. Thanks to Coach Drake, and others, I learned that working hard is the only way to work. It’s also okay to have a sense of humor while working. Enthusiasm will go a long way into making the work bearable and doable.

Somehow I tracked Mrs. Mike Drake down and spoke with her on the phone. I didn’t know what to say. She had months of adjustment behind her and she comforted me. Her sweetheart was gone and here she was comforting me. I was humbled.

I never shared with Coach Drake what he meant to me. The example he set and the caring he showed me as a player and as one of his assistant coaches. I know that I am just one of the countless athletes and coaches who were lucky enough to cross paths with Coach. I didn’t stand out. I was a decent player and just a young coach at the beginning of what would be a long career. Yet, I will be forever grateful that I am one of those countless numbers who were positively affected by Coach Mike Drake.

So many individuals have immeasurable impacts on our lives no matter the amount of time we are allowed to spend with them. Sometimes the time we spend with them is long. Sometimes the times we spend with them is short. Still, their impact is long-lasting no matter what. Mike Drake is one of those individuals for me. The time we spent together is so comparatively short, but it is definitely long-lasting. To this day I am grateful that our paths crossed.

I didn’t share these thoughts of gratitude with him. For that I am truly sorry. My belief is that someday I will have that opportunity. In the meantime, maybe he’ll be allowed to read this. No matter what, I will always be grateful for Mike Drake. He is definitely one who has helped me shape my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

Photo from 1983 when Coach Drake (far right) was Defensive Coordinator.

Where’d he go?

With his wedding day quickly approaching, I am left with a mind deep in reflection. That happens often with me at momentous periods in my life. This is one of those momentous periods. Our little “Man-Cub” is leaving the life of singularity and entering the married ranks along with his sweetheart. They definitely make a great couple. They will be good for each other and they will be happy. Of this I pray. The years have passed quickly since Jacob Andrew Martinez entered our family. I am left with the question in my mind: Where’d he go?!?!

I had resolved myself to being the father of three wonderful and beautiful daughters when my beloved wife expressed that she thought “there’s one more”. Being a big guy, and often thinking of food, my mind leaned in that direction. If I think the food is good, I’m always open to the thought of another serving, The look in my sweetheart’s eyes let me know that she was not referring to food. It was our little family she referred to.

When it comes to serious matters in life I have learned to always trust the thoughts of my eternal companion. I asked if she was sure. With confidence she reaffirmed the thought. I was not one to question. Our daughters were aged seven, four, and three years old at the time. The thought of another girl being added to our tribe was exciting for us all. Personally I had become comfortable being the father of daughters, so I figured that would continue with the upcoming arrival.

The date for the caesarian delivery was scheduled for July 9, 1997. As the doctor exclaimed “You have a boy!”, my sweetheart shed tears of joy and I think my jaw practically hit the floor. A boy? That changes the game thought I. Being the father of a son had to be something I would have to learn. My sweetheart and our daughters helped me learn how to be a father of girls. They, along with Jacob, would help me learn more in the areas of parenthood.

Kara, Jacob’s sweetheart, will be in good hands. Jacob was raised in a household of a loving mother and three loving older sisters. They taught him the basics of how to treat others with love and respect. I’m a football coach and I did my best to pitch in, but I know my place on the team. The little guy would sometimes naturally gravitate towards me, yet we enjoyed countless great times together as a family. He had four women in his life that really took care of him and love him tremendously.

As a family we once walked across the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California. The little guy’s legs were much shorter than us all and he got tired. Up on my shoulders I lifted him and he enjoyed the view from a higher standpoint as we finished our little hike. Seemingly not much time passed before he was assisting me on challenging parts of family hikes. Where’d the little guy go?

On another occasion we took a family trip to an outlet mall in a nearby city. The girls were more interested in the shopping aspect of our visit, yet we all still had fun. The little guy and I would park ourselves outside the store temporarily occupied by the girls as the contents of the store held no interest of ours. Jacob would take an imaginary basketball and play an imaginary basketball game involving our favorite team, the Los Angeles Lakers. He’d keep score aloud and provide a play-by-play of the action. The play-by-play included a well balanced scoring effort by the various players on the Lakers roster at the time. It would always be a close game, but the purple & gold always came out on top in the end. I was one proud papa! Where’d the little guy go?

Jacob has always loved the game of basketball. The first time he was on a team was in our local city league for little ones. Score was not kept as the emphasis was on learning the fundamentals of the game and sportsmanship. Despite these factors, the little guy kept the score in his head of the game. After being congratulated by his family, he would take me aside and inform me of whether his team had won or not. Where’d the little guy go?

Jacob’s preschool? All girls. It was organized by a group of mothers in our neighborhood. Jacob happened to be the only boy in the appropriate age group. His mother and sisters had prepared him well, so he had no problem being around girls. Where’d the little guy go?

Despite being a football guy, I’ve always enjoyed basketball. As a family we have fond memories of shooting hoops in our driveway with the portable basketball standard a moving neighbor left us. The inevitable one-on-one contests would take place between various family members. Fond memories I have of father-son matchups which were always competitive. I’d win, but by just enough points necessary. I had a heart and didn’t want to blow the little guy out. When asked by my sweetheart afterwards why I didn’t let Jacob win, I’d respond that his competitive nature deserved better than that. Where’d the little guy go?

Time flew by and the next thing I knew Jacob was volunteering his time on game day for the local community college where I was an assistant football coach. He was a diligent worker performing various tasks along our game day sideline. Man-Cub took his job seriously and many a football player got to know him over the years he volunteered. His work was appreciated and valuable. Many precious memories I have of him riding next to me on the team bus for away games. He’d patiently walk around with me before games as I got my mind straight for the action which awaited. We’d enjoy the postgame team meal provided together, always commenting on Justin’s (our director of football operations and Jacob’s boss for the day) fine choice of food. Where’d the not so little guy go?

Before too long Jacob had his own football games to focus on as he joined his high school football team. The team was not very successful in winning games during his four years, but he worked hard and learned many life lessons. When a loved one mentioned that maybe he should transfer to a more successful high school program in the area, his response made me proud: “I’m not a traitor.” His commitment made us all proud. Where’d the not so little guy anymore go?

After graduating from high school Man-Cub made the selfless decision to serve a two-year Church mission. We were all proud of his choice, yet we would greatly miss him. As the time neared for his departure to the designated area where he would serve in Colorado, my heart grew a bit weary. I knew he had made the right decision to serve, but I would miss him dearly. When we dropped him off at the training center in Utah my vision grew blurry with tears. A friend comforted me with the text message saying that Jacob would return a better man. I knew he was right, yet the separation would not be easy on my heart. Jacob moved forward with confidence heading in the right direction. Where’d he go?

Upon his return Man-Cub was a new man. The two years had not only blessed the lives of the people he came in contact with, they had also blessed Jacob with two years of experiences and growth which would prove to be priceless throughout his life. We were so glad to have him home once again. We knew it would not last forever, but we were grateful for the time we would spend together and the memories we would create.

What came next for Jacob was a college degree, two years coaching experience, and opportunities which awaited him in other States. I say “came”, but in reality Jacob worked hard and earned all of his accomplishments. His commitment and work ethic were admirable and inspiring. Long hours were put into his college work, while his coaching and a part-time job along the way made things even more challenging. Where’d he go?

Man-Cub’s path inevitably led him away from the home nest. My sweetheart and I knew the day would come, but it was not any easier on our hearts. The three of us had shared much together since his return. Many journeys were taken together. Countless memories were created with just the three of us. Where would he go?

So here we are with Man-Cub’s nuptials quickly approaching. A father could not be more proud. I am humbled by our son and ever so proud. No longer does he require my shoulders in order to finish a journey. That time has long passed. What lies ahead for Jacob will be with Kara, his beloved sweetheart. Their path will not always be easy, but it will be better because they will be together.

Debbie, my sweetheart, and I have been married since May 2, 1987. With that in mind I offer some fatherly advice

You are marrying your best friend…as it should be. Always keep it that way.

You’re going to be a team and you should be each other’s MVP.

Always listen to each other and always express your opinion. Make decisions together.

Always think the best of each other. Never think the worst. Communicate always and openly.

You’re on a journey together now…no longer “me”, but “we”. Keep that in mind at all times. You can still be yourself, but be respectful of each other’s differences.

Love each other unconditionally and at all times.

Respect is a two-way street. Always use it both directions.

Keep the Lord in your life and you will always be happy where you are found.

You will be challenged at times. Stick together and conquer the challenges together.

Life is a journey that will be more ordinary than one might think. The key is to enjoy the ride together and everyday will be special.

Our family will be expanding soon and we are so happy to be adding a daughter-in-law to the fold. We are so happy for Jacob & Kara! So many memories to make.

I’m just an old football coach brimming with gratitude for the life I’ve been blessed with which has helped me develop my perspective and my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

37 YEARS?!?!?!

As another football season comes to a close I can’t help but notice that I’ve now coached football for a total of 37 years. That calendar sure has a way of swiftly marking the passage of time. It doesn’t seem that long ago that I was the young guy on the coaching staff, always asking questions and rarely asked for my opinion. I started off as an assistant to an assistant. Now I’m the old guy who’s coached football longer than other coaches on the staff have been breathing air. 37 years makes for a long career! Along the way I’ve been able to work with countless athletes and coaches who I’ve come to think of as family. I’ve been ignored, listened to, taken for granted, praised, corrected, asked my opinion, and valued. Above all I feel that I’ve been blessed to have had the experiences I’ve had with the people that I had them with. So many memories! So many blessings!

As many young athletes, my dream was to one day play my sport professionally. My sport of choice was football and I was willing to work as hard as possible to make that dream become a reality. As the real world would have it, I was able to play at the high school, community college, and small university levels. It was a blessing I still cherish for me to play at each of these levels. In my senior season at the university I realized that if I wanted my association with football to continue, it would be on the other side of the whistle since I had reached the ceiling of my football playing potential. It was then that I started preparing myself to coach.

I was the starting left tackle at Western New Mexico University. My senior season saw us with a new head coach, Mike Drake. Coach Drake had recruited me to WNMU while he was the defensive coordinator. I really liked him and I was glad he had been named as head coach. Coach Drake brought in Tim Jaureguito as our offensive line coach. Coach J was a tireless worker who helped each of us on the offensive line to improve beyond our expectations. Up until that point I had only focused on my particular position, not worrying about what others had to do. My senior year would be different as I wanted to learn more about other positions so I would someday be able to coach. I became the bothersome player always asking Coach J questions about the whole offensive line. He patiently answered my questions and helped me learn more my senior season than I had ever learned before.

After I graduated from WNMU in 1985, Coach Drake offered me the opportunity to be Coach J’s assistant. I gratefully accepted and it became baptism by fire as I was immersed in the world of coaching college football. Very long days on and off the field gave me the opportunity to not only work hard, but also to learn much more about football than I ever did as a player. I also learned early that there were no days off during football season for a college coach. Under Coach J’s tutelage I learned so much about offensive line play that I felt prepared to progress in the field of coaching.

The following two seasons saw me coaching linemen at Huntington Park High School in the southeastern section of Los Angeles. There were only three of us on the varsity coaching staff. Head Coach Dwight Muskrath and defensive coordinator Al Parkhill both had patience with the young guy. Coach Muskrath had been asking for another coach for some time. The principal, Marjorie O’Hanlon, said she trusted me and had offered me the position while I was still at WNMU. Coach Muskrath didn’t get to interview me. I was simply put on his staff. I worked the way I had been taught to work at WNMU, and that is HARD! We had good success those two years and went deep into the playoffs each season. At the end of the second season another door of opportunity was opened.

East Los Angeles College was the community college where I had played football. Sometime while I was at WNMU the school had dropped the football program. After the 1987 season at HPHS I heard that ELAC was bringing their football program back and had named Al Padilla as head coach. Coach Padilla was an East LA coaching icon who had much success over the years at the high school and community college levels. He was my offensive line coach during my freshman season in 1978, Once I heard that football was returning to ELAC I swung by campus to congratulate him. We ended up talking for some time during which he offered me the position of offensive line coach despite me only having three years coaching experience. I was ecstatic and a bit overwhelmed. He gave me the holidays to think it over. After much prayer and thought, my wife and I agreed that this would be an opportunity not to pass up. I was named the offensive line coach even though there were two other coaches on staff who had much more experience in coaching the position. Coach Padilla proved to be the perfect mentor for me as he patiently helped me grow and improve in coaching the offensive line. Often he and I would be found in the football offices, long after all others had left, with him helping me learn with his father-like manner. I learned so much and the love I have for that kind man is eternal. After our second season my wife and I had got into a home in the Antelope Valley. Coach Padilla would help open another door of opportunity.

Brent Carder was a well-respected and accomplished community college football coach in California. He ran a respected program which had experienced much success under his tutelage. At an all-conference meeting Coach Padilla had mentioned to Coach Carder that one of his assistants was purchasing a house in the Antelope Valley. Coach Padilla thought that assistant coach was worth talking to. Appointments were made and I found myself in the office of Antelope Valley College’s head coach being interviewed for a possible position on his staff. Coach Carder’s longtime offensive line coach was moving over to coach defense, so Coach was willing to consider this outsider from East LA. After several nighttime interviews, despite having only five years coaching experience, Coach hired me as his offensive line coach. I would remain in that position for seventeen years until he retired and another door opened.

Replacing a legend is no easy task, but that is what awaited Perry Jehlicka as he was named the new head football coach at AVC. The college had not had to name a head coach for more than three and a half decades, so this was uncharted territory to all involved. Perry navigated the situation well and chose to keep the staff that had been in place during Coach Carder’s final year in coaching. For eight years I was kept on Perry’s staff until I felt it was time for me to step away from the sport that I had coached for thirty years. My retirement caught many by surprise, but I knew I was doing the right thing. Little did I know at the time, but a year later another door of opportunity would open.

I didn’t coach football during the 2015 season. I was retired and looking to move on to what awaited. After the season ended both my wife and son told me they thought I still had some coaching left in me. I hadn’t thought of it until then, but I thought since loved ones had that thought I should consider it. I reached out and some opportunities quickly presented themselves. The most intriguing came from James Vondra at Quartz Hill High School. After a long meeting with him, he offered me a position on his varsity staff. I was only looking to be an assistant to an assistant to make sure I still had the passion to coach, but James soon named me the varsity offensive line coach. QHHS had a great six-year run and I was lucky enough to be along for the ride. Five playoff opportunities (one season lost by all to COVID) with four playoff appearances. Three CIF championship games with two CIF titles. One Southern California Regional title and one State Championship game appearance. It was a great time to be part of a great coaching staff. Some of the most enjoyable years of my coaching career. I will forever be grateful to James Vondra for the opportunity he gave me. All good things must come to an end as James decided it was time to move on. With that move of his, another door of opportunity opened for me.

It was a difficult thing to see the breakup of the coaching staff at QHHS. We worked very well together and we had fun doing so. Some members of the staff went here and others went there. I had choices to make as opportunities were offered. Down deep the one place I wished to coach was at the place I had began coaching in the Antelope Valley…AVC. The opportunity seemed slim at times, but eventually things were worked out and I began coaching for the Marauders once again. It was July and not much time remained before the season began. Before I knew it the season was underway, then it was over with us finishing with a 5-5 record. The season was unique and at times undesirable. So much instability and uncertainty at every junction. I had hopes of having a “normal” season, but it was not to be. Nonetheless, I knew I was where I should be and I did my best. My hope is that I did some good. I sure tried!

A long career indeed! I started in 1985. I was blessed with great opportunities by trusting individuals. I did my best and more importantly I was able to be a family man along the way. Without my family I am nothing. With my family I am one blessed individual with a greater perspective than just that of a football coach. I have done my best to uphold the most-worth profession of coaching. I am not famous, yet I have no regrets. It’s been a great ride!

With all of the uncertainty surrounding my current position, I do not know what the future holds for me in coaching. I wish to continue and I know there is some good work to be a part of. Only time will tell what my course will be. In the meantime I remain grateful for the ride that has helped me develop my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE.

“V”

I first met James Vondra some years ago. He was the head football coach at a local high school who had joined our football coaching staff at the local community college. I had been at the college for many years and was quite comfortable coaching at the collegiate level. After getting to know James a bit, I thought to myself that if I were ever to coach at a high school, I would want to work for James Vondra. Little did I know at the time, but that thought would one day be fulfilled.

While at the college together James and I coached on opposite sides of the ball. He was an assistant offensive coach, while I was an assistant defensive coach. Even from afar it was clear that James Vondra was an excellent football coach and an even better man. Clearly a family man, like myself, I came to admire him and what he stood for even though we didn’t work that closely together.

Time marches on and an opportunity arose that saw Coach Vondra return to a local high school as the head coach. Periodically we would touch base with each other and I would admire his work from the sideline of his team’s games. Some time later he took a position to head a high school football program with more of a history of success. Rumors had been swirling around the coaching fraternity of where he would end up as there were other positions open in the area. I had reached out to him verifying where he might go, then congratulated him on his landing spot.

The program he ran at Quartz Hill High School was one to be proud of. He stepped into the position of head coach succeeding the previous head coach who had retired. James was not the heir apparent as the previous head coach let his feelings known that he didn’t think James was the man for the job. The previous head coach had won the school’s only CIF Championship in football, so his opinion carried a lot of weight. Still, James Vondra was named head coach and began the task of building a successful program of his own.

QHHS was known for having disciplined athletes and very competitive teams, yet some years had passed since the program was of championship caliber. Having recruited the area for more than two decades, I knew that football players from QHHS were generally disciplined and hard workers. Other schools in the area had more “athletic” players, with more speed, but QHHS usually had the more disciplined players.

QHHS has a strong booster club which can be demanding. James had to win them over. No easy task as he chose to build his program instead of resting on the laurels of school history. Some feathers were ruffled on campus, yet James moved on with his plan of building a successful football program. Undaunted with early setbacks, Coach Vondra kept the ship directed in the direction he knew would lead to success. What he would build along the way was of historic proportions.

“Earn the right” became a motto that personified Coach Vondra’s football program. Nothing was guaranteed to the athletes but the opportunity to “Earn the right” to be a part of the program. All things associated with the program were earned, not given. At the onset there were some growing pains, as could be expected, but James weathered the storms and continued guiding his ship towards success. His program would prove to be one of character, class, dedication, dignity, hard-work, and perseverance

The first few years of the Vondra era saw QHHS remain competitive, yet not of championship caliber. Then came the greatest six-year run in school history. In 2016 the preseason expectations had QHHS finishing up in the bottom half of the eight-team league. Those thoughts would prove to be in error as the team finished third in the league and qualified for a playoff spot. Not expected to go far, the team hit the road for the first round and got on a roll ending up in the 2016 CIF Championship game. In a game that could have gone either way, QHHS lost the championship in heart-breaking and controversial fashion on the very last play of the game. A crushing way to end a season, but the significance of the accomplishments along the way could not be denied.

James sold the team, which had several key returning players, on the thought that there was unfinished business ahead for the 2017 season. Under his guidance QHHS attacked the offseason in earnest preparing for the upcoming season. Countless weight room sessions, on-field work, extra running of hills and stadium steps were done in preparation for the season that lied ahead. Passing competitions were embraced on a regular basis, with a lineman competition mixed in for good measure. Looking to clean up unfinished business, the 2017 season was approached with gusto.

Unlike the previous season, there was no doubt that QHHS would be involved in postseason play. Finishing atop the league in a three-way tie, it was time for the playoffs. In what proved to be the most challenging path to the CIF Finals of all divisions, QHHS once again found themselves playing for a CIF Championship. The game would go down to the very last play once again, but this time the game ended happily for QHHS as they won only the second CIF Championship in school history.

The 2016 & 2017 football seasons resulted in 23 wins, two CIF Championship game appearances, one league title, and one very coveted CIF Championship. It was the greatest two-year run in school history…and it was all part of James Vondra’s plan and under his stellar leadership. That’s not to mention the countless hours behind the scenes all successful head coaches must put in to build a successful program.

It was a great honor for me to me the offensive line coach during this period. After thirty years in coaching football I had stepped away from the game during the 2015 season. During the following Spring the desires to coach arose. As I put some feelers out, James quickly contacted me about coaching at QHHS. After some long talks with him, and defensive coordinator Mike Drennan, I accepted a position on his staff as an assistant to an assistant just to see if the fire to coach was still in me. Before I knew it I was told by James that I would be the offensive line coach. Believing whole-heartedly in James Vondra I hit the ground running and became part of the fine coaching staff he had assembled for the 2016 season.

Starting with the 2017 season, my desk in the football office was right next to James’ desk. I had worked for some fine head coaches over the years, but for the first time in my career I got to witness some of the work a head coach puts into the football program. James Vondra was not simply the head football coach, he also taught math classes and was involved in many leadership roles on campus…as if leading a successful football program didn’t require enough of his time. Yet through it all James worked…and he worked HARD.

James would arrive well before the beginning of the school day and would remain there working into the night hours well after the rest of us had left for the day. One thing is for sure in my eyes, James Vondra would not be outworked or out-prepared. His attention to detail helped all of his coaches, players, and all others involved in the football program. One of the best offensive minds that I’ve come across, all of us were better coaches because of James’ patience and ability to let his coaches coach. His manner was not as that of a dictator. He hired coaches he believed in, then he stepped back and let them coach. More than once he would teach us in the office after practice helping all of his coaches to learn and expand our own knowledge of the game.

The 2018 season would not live up to the previous two seasons as QHHS failed to qualify for the playoffs. The 2019 season saw the team make the playoffs, then suffer a first round defeat. 2020 was when a microscopic virus took over the world and took the 2020 season away from high school football teams in California. We were allowed to have small, short workouts throughout part of the Summer and Fall, but no games took place. The organization of these workouts was no simple task. James embraced the challenge and kept the program alive the best that could be hoped for. During the Summer he had long days overseeing workouts from afar. From sun up to sun down James Vondra could be found on campus inputting information required to the school administration regarding team workouts, all the while organizing where a coach and his small “pod” of players would be…social distancing all the way.

The Spring of 2021 saw a decision by the powers that be that a five-game season, with no playoffs, would be played in our area. With a fraction of the normal preparation time necessary to ready for a football season, teams got to work in earnest. James remained calm and led us through a most challenging and unique Spring football season. QHHS finished up 4-1 with a squad many of us thought could have had a successful playoff run…had there been any playoffs. I can honestly say that if not for the friendship and leadership of James Vondra, I most likely would not have participated in this abbreviated season.

A few weeks after the completion of the “COVID season” practices began for the 2021 season which would once again prove to be like no other football season. So many challenges. Weekly COVID testing became a thing for coaches and players alike. Key players were informed last minute that they could not play in a game due to COVID exposure on campus. Our first game was on the road. One of the players on the bus had COVID and was later hospitalized for a day, Needless to say, players seated near him were affected also due to exposure to that pesky little virus.

After that first game of the season the football program was shut down by the county due to COVID. No practices were allowed. No meetings were allowed. We were completely shut down. The captain of our ship, James Vondra, was on home quarantine for a time. Two games and our bye week were lost due to health measures. Once we were allowed to practice again it was like starting over…and it was time for league play.

Many complained with a defeatist attitude. James Vondra was not one of those individuals. His leadership emphasized the motto of “Next man up”. No matter the situation we would find ourselves in, the next man had to be ready. Our coaching had to echo that motto as so much was out of our control and the season would go on. Coach Vondra was the calm in the midst of the storm that the 2021 football season was evolving to be.

Our first league game showed that we had not been able to practice. We lost a high-scoring affair to a team QHHS would normally beat handily. Playing with parts of our team missing during league play, we ended the season not looking like a playoff-caliber squad. We were tied for third place in the league and our hopes seemed dim for postseason play. Lightening struck, in the form of league bylaws, and we were put into a playoff bracket.

During this time of turmoil James Vondra’s leadership abilities kept us moving in the right direction. He worked harder than ever as the season became unimaginable along the way. Through it all James pushed on and set the example for us all. Never looking for excuses, we all just worked hard and dealt with what unfolded the best we could….and James led the way.

Not expected by the “experts” to last long in the playoffs, we hit the road for the first round. After nearly a three-hour bus ride we arrived to play Lake Elsinore High School. The hosts were picked to win comfortably, but QHHS went home happy with the win and a ticket to the second round of the playoffs. The next two games were much of the same. Not expected to win, QHHS found a way to overcome and pull out the wins at home. The CIF Championship game awaited with another long bus ride with the underdog role firmly in place.

The game was taken control of by QHHS early. In the second half there was a running clock due to the lopsided score. Another CIF Championship for QHHS! The second such title during the James Vondra era at the helm of the program. Well-earned! Another long bus ride awaited for the Southern California Regional Championship to be held near Arizona’s State-line. The underdog role once again in place, the visitors disappointed the large home crowd by ending the evening with a victory. For the first time in school history QHHS would be playing for a State Championship!

The longest bus ride of the season took us to Northern California for the title game. After a full day of travel on Friday, we spent the night in a hotel. The Saturday night title game favored the home team and sent the large crowd home happy. The game’s outcome in no way diminished the historic accomplishments of the 2021 squad amongst the most challenging of circumstances.

In a five-year run, not counting the non-playoff COVID season, James Vondra-led squads appeared in the playoffs four times. Three times they played for a CIF Championship. Two times they won CIF titles. A league title was won as was a Southern California Regional Championship. And for the first time ever, QHHS played in a State Championship game!

These accomplishments are impressive. Taking into consideration that they took place at a public high school, where recruiting and scholarships are not a thing, the accomplishments are VERY IMPRESSIVE! And it all took place under the coaching and leadership of one James Vondra…aka “V”.

The championships and historic records of James Vondra’s impact at QHHS and its football program are just the tip of the iceberg. They do not reflect the humanity within James’ operation and his handling of the student/athlete. All involved in his program become a part of his family and he’s a father figure to many. The list is long of former players who keep in touch with him on a regular basis. Examples abound of times he went more than the extra mile for his athletes and coaches. A more caring, kind, and loving man would be hard to find within the ranks of football coaches. James is one of the best people I have been blessed to associate with anywhere. I consider him a friend and it is a true honor to do so. In my eyes he is family.

I am humbled to have been a small part of the James Vondra era at QHHS. It was a great ride! The staff he assembled was second to none and it was a privilege being part of that staff. We worked well together and that is a reflection of the man at the helm. James organized a staff he trusted would work well together, then let us do our assigned job. It was a pleasure working for him. He helped me rediscover why I love to coach.

Sitting at the neighboring desk, James told me about halfway through this past season that his time as head coach at QHHS was coming to a close. The good news was that it was at his choosing and would result in the opportunity for some welcomed financial security. I had seen the man deal with so much pressure from his position as head coach resulting in some health concerns which the players knew nothing about. I was not the only coach concerned at times for James’ health, so the news of him leaving certain pressures behind was welcomed.

The program will not be the same, it never is during a time of transition, but James Vondra will continue to positively impact the lives of student/athletes in a different role at a different school. The football program at QHHS is in capable hands. James Vondra left behind a lasting legacy that is historic in nature and oh so memorable!

One thing’s for certain. Many lives are better because of James Vondra…including my own. I will always call him “friend” and consider him to be “family”.

James Vondra. A big factor in helping me better myself and put into better focus my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

COACH AUGUSTA

When word reached me on Wednesday that Darrell Augusta had unexpectedly progressed from this mortal existence, my heart sank and I was at a loss for words. I fought back tears as I informed my wife of the devastating news. My heart still hurts.

I had admired the man’s work in football for several years, yet we had never met each other. Then in 2016 I was added to the high school football coaching staff that he was a part of. It was then I got to know Darrell a bit. It didn’t take very long for me to feel like I had known him practically my whole life. That’s Darrell Augusta’s way. How he addressed and treated people was with a disarming manner that put everyone he came in contact with at ease and comfortable. He will be missed. I miss him already.

For several years I coached football at a local community college. Part of my responsibilities was to attend area high school football practices and games to keep an eye on local football talent, while supporting the programs in our area. Coach Augusta was one of the local high school football assistant coaches who caught my attention. His demeanor was attention-grabbing. From afar, I saw that Darrell conducted himself with class and dignity. I truly admired him and saw that his way of doing things was even more impressive when seen up close.

Darrell’s attention to detail was like none I had witnessed before. I guess it wasn’t surprising since he spent a career working in the defense industry while he coached football “part-time”. He was raised in community situations which would challenge anyone. Louisiana, Detroit, and Los Angeles provided him childhood experiences which could have hardened him…yet they did not. Coach’s manner was to always deal with people respectfully, while patiently helping them learn from his words, and more impact-fully, his actions.

Despite never having coached together, nor even spoken, Darrell and I had a mutual respect for each other’s work. Working together provided the opportunity to learn from one another, while striving for the same goals. His knowledge of football was second to none, yet he was always striving to learn more. Countless times us fellow coaches learned just as many life lessons from him as did the athletes we worked with.

Due to our high regard for one another, he always called me “Coach Martinez”, we used to compliment each other on a regular basis. It evolved into a game of who could top the other in compliment. For example: one would tell the other that it was an honor being on the same practice field that day. The other would respond that it was an honor to simply be in the same area code. We’d both share a laugh. In reality, I meant every compliment! He’s the greatest…and with a sense of humor.

One funny memory stands out. One day I was leaving one of our local gyms after a workout. As I walked towards my car I noticed Darrell sitting in his car. Figuring that he was arriving for a workout of his own, I wished him a good workout. He smiled and stated that he was just there waiting for his sweet wife to get in a workout. Then he heartily laughed and said: “You caught me!” Both he and I then cracked up. We shared a good laugh over that day many times afterwards.

I have coached football for thirty-six years and I can honestly state that Darrell Augusta is one of the greatest individuals I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I learned more from him than he will ever realize. I am a better person because of his presence in my life. I know with a surety that I am not the only one who can say that.

I firmly believe that there are “angels” amongst us. Not the kind with harps and wings, but the individuals who live their lives willing to help others along the path we call “life”. In my eyes, Darrell is one of those angels. His humble manner would never allow him to admit this, but I am just one person who has witnessed Darrell Augusta in action…and I am better because of the experience.

Prayers always to Darrell’s family as they deal with the loss of him in their earthly lives. His loving spirit has touched so many of us while he was with us and that loving spirit will remain doing so in his memory.

Until we meet again my friend! You definitely have been a shining example which has helped me improve, while continuing to develop and share my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

Coach Brent Carder Celebration of Life

When I asked Nan what direction she would like my remarks to go this afternoon she left me with the words: “Just speak on something he would appreciate.” If I go that direction, my remarks would be about Coach Carder’s family, coaches, athletes, Antelope Valley College, and a host of other topics. Very little mention would be about him. Well, I’m sorry Coach but today is all about you.

Today we celebrate the life of a man who has meant so much to so many. His years of service to the college and community are well-documented. His accolades and accomplishments are numerous in the fields of education and football. Fittingly he is a member of the California Community College Football Hall of Fame. To say that Coach Carder has left a lasting legacy would be a grand understatement.

The name of “Brent Carder” not only rests above the football stadium at Antelope Valley College…it also rests upon the hearts, minds, and souls of the innumerable numbers of people whose lives he impacted.

I am grateful for the seventeen years I worked for the man I affectionately referred to as “The Boss”. He did so much for my family and I that words cannot truly convey my gratitude and love for Coach Carder. I never wanted to let him down! I celebrate his life, and the small part I got to share with him, each day. What I learned under his tutelage has served me well and will continue to do so for the rest of my life.

Since his retirement from coaching, our paths would periodically cross and each time he would first inquire as to the well-being off my family. Once assured that all was well, the conversation would turn to shared memories. Each cherished memory brought back waves of emotion in us both as we enjoyed remembering times gone by.

The last time we spoke we stood for almost an hour at Apollo Park reminiscing over shared experiences in AVC Marauder Football history. The athletes. The coaches. The conditions. The games. But this time it was a bit different than previous discussions focused more on his athletes. His words that day conveyed clearly that he truly loved and cared for his players and the men they have become. The Marauders he has worked with have excelled, near and far, in areas across the spectrum of society…including football and athletics.

Ask him and he’d say he didn’t do that much. In reality Coach Brent Carder did more for his athletes than he ever realized. To quote a former player: “Coach Carder was one of those firm coaches who radiated toughness and discipline. We were a ragtag group when I played for him and his approach to practice, and the messages he preached, were exactly what all of us rough kids from Lancaster needed to play together and for each other. He’ll never know it, but we needed him ten times more than he ever needed any one of us.”

Years after Coach Carder had retired I stepped away as an assistant coach for the Marauders. I phoned him to inform him of my decision and thanked him for the opportunities he had given me. In typical Brent Carder fashion, being a man of few words, he paused and responded: “Mike, you were a good hire.”

Words I will will always cherish.

Not Perfect, But Better

Forty years ago I was passing the time on my last US Independence Day outside of the United States. I say “passing the time”, but in actuality I was immersed in the work of a Church missionary. The day of celebration back in the United States took place on a Saturday, while in Guatemala City the day seemed just like any other day.

“Any other day” in Guatemala was not like the days I had spent back at home in the southeastern section of the Los Angeles, California area. Some things were similar, but so many others were entirely different and quite eye-opening to this young man who had passed his 20th & 21st birthdays in this Central American Third World country. I would be returning home in just a month and truly had no idea what my future would hold. Whatever future course I would follow, I knew that the rest of my life would be affected by my nearly two years in Guatemala.

What I had experienced and seen during my time in this beautiful country had definitely changed me from the individual who had stepped off the plane from Los Angeles back in 1979. The external change could easily been seen, since I had dropped over forty pounds since I left home, but the internal changes could not been seen and would affect me forever.

I had been raised in humble circumstances, compared to many, thus I felt I understood what poverty meant. I was wrong. Homes with walls made of thin plywood or thin sheets of aluminum were not uncommon in the first area I served in. Children with no shoes could be found everywhere in the town which had two paved roads with the rest being dirt similar to the floors of many residences. The feet of those little ones, much like their adult counterparts, were clearly hardened and did not feel the effects of the concrete, earthen and, rocky surfaces they walked on. The clothes worn were clear testaments that not many, if any, other clothing was owned. Clearly the circumstances I previously faced in my life back in the US could not compare with the life of these people who knew no other way and had no possibility of changing their future lifestyles from what they currently dealt with.

It was a large pueblo not too far from El Salvador. Both countries were in the midst of civil wars, but the situation was worse in El Salvador. Political killings by the government were not uncommon in Guatemala, but in El Salvador things were on a different level. Evidences of guerrilla encampments in the hills above our pueblo could be seen at night by the light of visible campfires. My first companion, John Hanson, and I visited one of those encampments which was located off a long and dusty dirt road far from our pueblo. More than once on that long journey the thought passed through my mind that we could fall victim to the circumstances in Guatemala at the time and our remains would never be found. Our families would never know what happened to us. Thankfully we are both still here with those memories from so long ago.

From my experience I never saw “homeless” people in Guatemala. The poorest of the poor still found ways to build some makeshift residence and that became their home. In Guatemala City many people would be on the sidewalks begging for money. Some of the conditions these people were found in would tear at the heart strings of the hardest of individuals. Yet we had been instructed not to give money to any beggars as we could not afford to help them all, and if we did they would flock to us as the word spread that we had money. To this day I do not offer up money to those who as for it, as all I can see in my mind’s eye are the memories of those I ignored so long ago on the streets of Guatemala City and, to a lesser extent, in the towns away from the capitol. When I state “ignore”, I was successful in the act with my reactions but the heart-rending memories of what was seen will be with me forever.

Not all was bleak in this beautiful country. Many people enjoyed comfortable lifestyles comparable, and above, what I had experienced back in the United States. The elite lived lives of luxury, but their numbers were small in comparison to the masses. The social classes were much different than I had experienced in life up to this point as it was simply the “haves” and the “have nots”…with a large gap between the two and little to no chance of advancement for the “have nots”. By seeing all of this I learned to truly appreciate what was waiting for me back home in the good old US of A.

I would not be locked into any social class. In fact, my truck driver father always told me that he wanted me to attain a profession in which I did not have to work as hard as he did. The desire of both parents was for me to attend and graduate from college, then get into a profession which would provide possibilities of a “better” lifestyle than the one in which I had been raised. All of that would be open to me with sufficient efforts on my part…and the choice would be mine.

My government would not rule over me with the fear factor used in Guatemala at the time. I could express my thoughts without fear of a government death squad putting a gruesome end to my life so as to deter others.

I would have a say in my government in the form of a free election. I had personally witnessed how the Guatemalan President had been elected and let’s just say that it had nothing to do with the “elections” the people took part in. The elite in the government made the choice, while the election results of the people didn’t actually play a part in who ran the country.

I would be returning to a country far from perfect, but one that was closer to equality and freedom than the one I would be leaving behind. Shoes would be on my feet. My residence would have floors and walls in much better condition that what I had seen in Central America. The water coming out of the faucet would be clean and potable, while hot water would be readily available…a condition I had not experienced since leaving my home country.

I could go on, but suffice it to say that I returned home a much changed man. I didn’t take the seemingly simple things for granted, as I had done before. I looked people in the eyes while speaking with them, having a true interest and respect of what they had to say. I didn’t judge people so much as I had learned that each of us have challenges and struggles to overcome. When asked a question I gave an honest answer and admitted when I didn’t know the answer. Life was more precious than it had been before as I had seen it snatched away too easily too many times. I appreciated the freedoms I enjoyed, understanding that the US was not perfect but it was much better than what I had seen while outside our country’s borders.

To this day experiences in Guatemala affect my life. I loved my time there and am eternally grateful for the opportunities of growth afforded me while I set my personal life aside with the quest of serving others. I loved the people. I loved the beautiful country. My feelings for the government were not the same.

Knowing there are imperfections in our country today, I know through first hand experiences that they are better than can be found in some countries. Our imperfections can be changed if we work together. Those same imperfections will tear us apart if we don’t unite to improve them.

All experiences in life, whether they be good or bad, can be long-lasting in our lives. The long-lasting experiences I had in Guatemala have most definitely helped me in forming my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE.

The COVID Football Season

It was mid-March of the year 2020 that the world started shutting down. An unknown virus gripped humanity across the globe and made its effects known from far away, working its way down to our own communities. In the afternoon of March 13th, fittingly a Friday, it was decided that the school district for which I work was shutting its doors to help “flatten the curve”. (We would be introduced to many previously unfamiliar terms in the following days and weeks…”flatten the curve” was one of the first.) Statistics showed that the COVID-19 virus was affecting a rising number of individuals. There was a need, we were told, to “self-quarantine” (another previously unfamiliar term) so as to help the number of COVID-19 cases stabilize. Many businesses were forced to shut their doors, some to never reopen, and the public was ordered to stay home except for the most “essential” of needs. We were introduced to the term “lock down” and it was not a pleasant experience for so many of us. Days stretched into weeks, which stretched into months…and the virus’ control of our world grew stronger.

The unimaginable began to take place. Here in the Antelope Valley (far NE Los Angeles County) of Southern California we were amongst the first in the country to wear face coverings on a wide scale. Mere days into the “lock down” the city of Lancaster, with a population over 150 thousand, made the wearing of face coverings inside buildings mandatory. Long lines of people at stores deemed as “essential” became the norm, while short supplies of certain basic needs were commonplace. It all seemed surreal…to say the least.

The high school where I teach was totally shut down. No one was allowed on campus at the beginning. Our off-season workouts for the football team were terminated. Our football world went virtual. “Zoom” took on a new meaning to some of us. Before it meant to move really fast. Now it took on the vital role of communicating with each other. It was via Zoom that we held coaching staff and team meetings. We broke into position meetings as well, affording me the opportunity to instruct my offensive linemen in the basics of the position. With my wife working the camera, our son acting as demonstrator, and me acting as instructor, the offensive linemen were taught some basic principles of offensive line play. Other coaches were more tech savvy, so their presentations were much more polished and technology driven, thus more entertaining. No matter the method of instruction, we all did our best in these uncertain times.

As we entered the summer months it was determined that we could work in person with our athletes once again. The month of July saw us being allowed to work in “pods” of no more than a total of ten individuals. Restrictions applied. Face coverings for the athletes while they were not physically working. Face covering for the coach at all times. “Social Distance” (another concept and term introduced during the pandemic) to be enforced at all times. Only physical conditioning activities were allowed. No football-related activities, and no equipment, were permitted.

As the summer wore on, restrictions were modestly eased as we moved towards the beginning of the school year. Eventually we were allowed to use equipment and do football-related activities. No changes were made to the number allowed in each pod. Then it was determined by the Governor of California that all schools would have to begin the school year in “Distance Learning” (yet another new term for us all). Football workouts in pods were shut down. We restarted for a time, but the possibility of a football season was quickly diminishing and another shut down arose.

As the calendar to a new year was turned, our hopes of a football season seemed unrealistic. Statewide there was a push for athletics to begin once again. At times that push appeared futile as no progress seemed to be made. Then, lightning struck quickly. Football was a go! Abbreviated seasons were organized across California with games being scheduled amongst teams in close proximity to each other. The only catch was that the time table for season preparation would be much shorter than usual. Preparation for the upcoming season, which normally takes at least eight months, would be limited to a few short weeks. We had to hit the ground running!

Restrictions would apply. Face coverings remained mandatory for coaches at all times. Players were first instructed they would have to wear face coverings during games, an announcement that came the day before our first game, but cooler heads prevailed and game officials did not enforce that particular restriction. All participants had to provide their own water at all times. No locker rooms were to be used. Teams were only allowed on the game field, for warmups, one hour prior to the opening kickoff. Spectator attendance at games would be greatly limited. Even though there would be no playoffs, eligibility rules would remain enforced, except for academic requirements, and all paperwork had to be submitted to the CIF (governing body of high school athletics in SoCal). Not all schools followed this particular aspect, but Quartz Hill High School did so with integrity.

I was a member of the minority of coaches and decision-makers that did not feel this was a good idea for the health and safety of the student/athletes involved. First of all, the “student” part of student/athlete was removed when all academic requirements were set aside to give all the opportunity to compete. Didn’t make sense to me. In my eyes schools are academic institutions which provide possible athletic opportunities. They are not athletic institutions which provide possible academic opportunities. Another concern of mine was the health and safety of the student/athletes. Mental and physical preparations for a “normal” football season, which begins in mid-August, usually begin in mid-January…at the latest. That preparation time would be crammed into less than three weeks before the first game. Our head coach knew my objections and my uncertainty of whether I wanted to participate in something that I did not believe in. The day before real football practices were to begin, I went home with serious thoughts of not being a participant.

As I shared my thoughts with my dear wife, I received a text that changed my thinking completely. One of my returning starting offensive linemen texted me to say that he had decided to leave the sport he was working with as he had decided to do football instead. “I’ll see you at practice tomorrow Coach!” The words touched me deeply. If one of “my guys” was buying into the program, I could not stay away and not be there for him or any of the other seniors willing to make the plunge into a football season crammed into such a small window of time. I was all in…with concerns.

More than an average number of injuries on our team occurred as we prepared for our first game….and we were not doing any type of serious contract. What would happen with the speed and intensity of a real game?

Our season was to be five games. We are in an eight team league. The powers that be decided on a schedule which divided the league into two groups. Based upon the league standings of the previous season, the top four teams would be in one group and the bottom four teams would be in another group. Each team would play the teams in their respective groups. There would be two other “cross-over” games for each team against teams from the other group. We had finished third previously, so we would be in the top group.

Our three games within our group were competitive affairs with us coming out on top in the first two games. The third game was an even contest for the first half of the game, but a nightmarish second half led to our defeat. Our two “cross-over” games ended with lopsided scores in our favor. Along the way our team was formed and my offensive line performed quite well. Running lanes were opened, pass protection was provided , and our offense began to click. In the end I was one proud offensive line coach of the development we had made in such a short time.

For the last game our head coach, who is a great football coach and an even better man, designed a play for each of my four senior offensive linemen in which each would be able to carry the ball. The in-game result was a four-play scoring drive. The first play saw my right tackle gain seven yards. My center gained three yards, and a first down, on the next play. My left tackle then gained six yards. To cap off the offensive line drive my left guard was handed the ball and ended up scoring from eighteen yards out…trucking the free safety along the way and dragging a few more defenders on his way to the end zone. Our sideline went nuts with each carry and erupted in celebration when the officials raised their arms signaling the touchdown. It was a memorable experience for us all…as was the season as a whole.

Many of us had given up on the possibility of a football season, but a season arrived. Football games in March and April seemed weird, but they did take place. Not all potential athletes participated, as a few opted out. No incentives were involved, (championships, playoffs, etc.), other than the opportunity to compete and play football games.

Regardless of their final records, all teams faced similar unique challenges provided, thus all involved deserve recognition for their efforts in making this season come to pass. Do I now agree with having a football season under these circumstances? In a word…no. Yet I am glad I took part in one last opportunity to work with seniors that I have seen develop from seemingly clueless high school freshmen to positions of responsibility on the team and now soon-to-be high school graduates.

The COVID football season will remain historically memorable for all of us involved. So many challenges overcome. So many “firsts”. So many “lasts”. So many memories developed. So many friendships formed and strengthened. So much to learn from. So much to ponder.

For the past several years of my 35-year coaching career I have coached one year at a time. At the end of the season I evaluate whether or not I have more to offer the young men I work with and to the sport of football. More than once this season I was asked if this was my last season. My response was always the same: “I don’t know. I’ll think about that when the season is over.” Well, the season is over and it is time to think about it.

No matter what, I will always be grateful for the COVID football season and all it did to help further my…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…

CHUCK

The list of good people on this planet got just a bit shorter yesterday as Mr. Charles Degener left mortality. There are angels amongst us who are not famous to the world, but are more precious than fame to those of us who know them. Charles Degener is one of those angels to many of us and his physical absence will surely be felt.

I have known quite a few men in my life with the name of “Chuck”, but none have had an impact like Charles Degener. We first met more than thirty years ago when my wife and I moved to the Antelope Valley. His mobility was limited a bit as he needed two forearm crutches in order to walk, yet that did not affect his strong spirit and friendly nature. I towered above him in stature, but I would grow to learn that he towered above me in so many other ways in which he made a definite impression.

We met at Church and that is where our relationship centered. Chuck was a product of the area as he attended Antelope Valley High School and Antelope Valley College, before continuing his education at Brigham Young University. Along the way he served a two-year Church mission, before marrying his sweetheart Daisy. By the time our paths crossed, Chuck and Daisy were the proud parents of two daughters and a son. (Their son Kyle would later take my Weight Training class at Antelope Valley College.) It was clear there was an abundant amount of love in the Degener family and that Chuck & Daisy were wonderful people. On occasion I visited their home and was always welcomed, made to feel appreciated, and loved.

I don’t remember why or when, but Chuck began calling me “Mikey”. Growing up I had come to detest that nickname since a popular commercial featured a small child character referred to as “Mikey”. I strongly felt that any use of that nickname towards me was not complimentary and I did not appreciate its usage. Yet, coming from Chuck I never felt anything other than caring, compassion, and love. I only responded to “Mikey” when it came from Chuck Degener…no one else.

The aging process takes a toll on us all. As the years went by, Chuck’s mobility became more limited and he faced many a physical challenge along the way. A motorized wheel chair came into use and I would often see Chuck motoring his way around the neighborhood on his way to Church or some other destination. Eventually, due to a nasty fall, Chuck could no longer drive his truck. For awhile he spent time in health care facilities dealing with serious health issues. There were reprieves when Chuck was allowed to return home, but not with the mobility he once possessed. The last visits I had with him were at his home, where he was confined to a hospital bed.

Yet, no matter where I visited with Chuck, he was always positive. His strong spirit could not be suppressed by his surroundings, nor his physical conditions. Whether at home, on the streets, at Church, or in a health care facility, Chuck Degener’s strong spirit always shone through. I saw him in some challenging situations, dealing with health, pain, and breathing apparatuses, yet he always greeted me with a smile. No matter the situation, Chuck would always ask about me, my family, other members of the Church we both attended, and the team I was coaching. Not once did he mention the challenges he was facing, nor the discomfort and pain he was having to deal with. When I asked how he was doing he would respond positively and never complain.

Chuck set the bar high on how to deal with challenges in life. His shining example has made me even more grateful for what I have been blessed with. Whenever the aches and pains of my own physical challenges bother me a bit, I remember that so many other people deal with so much more physical challenges than me…and they do it with a smile for the world. Chuck Degener was one of those people.

Now, Chuck is free from the physical challenges and pain which accompanied him in mortality for so long. A void is left for us to deal with. May his loving family be comforted and strengthened at this time of loss. May the mortal life he lived continue to shine and influence those of us who knew and loved him. Chuck will live on within the hearts of his sweetheart, children, grandchildren, and all of us who love him. Until we meet again my friend.

My regret is that I did not share my admiration and thoughts with Chuck while we were together in mortality. When our paths once again cross, I will embrace him and thank him for the fine examples he set for me to follow. I want Chuck to know that he definitely helped “Mikey” in developing his…VIEW FROM THE SIDELINE…