Last Thursday, Dec. 27, our high school, St. Pius X Catholic High School in Atlanta, honored our dad for coaching countless numbers of girls’ basketball players at IHM and St. Pius X for over 20 years. In appreciation of his contribution to the St. Pius X Community, the girls’ locker room has been named in his honor.
When we arrived it was overwhelming to be back at old PiHi, especially to see and be greeted by so many old friends and coaches. This was really the first time the whole family had been out since the diagnosis. The experience was emotional to say the leas, for us and many others in the gym. We always knew how much time and effort dad put into his coaching-we have seen it every day and experienced it first hand when we called him coach; but to see how many people’s lives he had influenced over the years was amazing. The moment Coach Kelly asked all the girl’s and coaches present who had ever worked with dad, to come take a group photo with him it was shocking to see the stands empty. And the amazing part is, it isn’t even close to all of the young women he has coached-it’s just a small representation.
We as a family are ever so grateful to St. Pius for this honor to our dad. Knowing that his hard work and dedication to the sport of basketball will live on at the school is something we will treasure.
As I mentioned in my comments on behalf of my family, a coach is not only a role model but also a mentor and teacher. My father encompasses these positions and more in everything he does. He finds strength in each person he meets and coaches, and trains them to believe in themselves and their abilities. I know that his teachings and work ethic will live on in those he has worked with. It has been a blessing for him and our family to be part of the St. Pius community for so long.
Thank you again Coach Sattele, Kristin Vari Dooley, Coach Dunn and Coach Kelly for organizing this dedication for Steve.
COMMENTS FROM OLD SITE
Fran Newman (Saturday, January 12 13 11:15 pm EST) Steve and his family have been patients at my dental office for over 30ys. Words can descibe the pain I feel for him and his family. They are one of the nicest people I have ever met. My thoughts and prayers are with yall doing this difficult time. I think of yall often. Much Love!Fran Newman
Megan Connolly Edwards (Thursday, January 03 13 11:49 am EST) Mr. Thacker taught me how to shoot a basketball when I was 11 years old. I will always remember honor and remember him for the time and care he took in his coaching. He really affected my life, and…