Recreation department gives coaches some well-deserved honors

There is a group of people who year after year go about their business with little fanfare. This group fills a role that is so very important to the character and work ethic of our young people.

The people I am speaking of are our youth league coaches.

I really do not think I'm overstating their importance. I have tremendous respect for anyone who volunteers to coach kids. The time that you have to put in to coach, no matter what the sport, is significant. And these folks do this for no pay (sometimes spending hundreds of dollars of their own money), and, other than an end of the year banquet, they rarely get the credit they should.

Last month, the Columbia County Recreation Department selected their Coaches of the Year. To be picked is a huge honor when you consider the competition includes all age levels.

So, while all the coaches should be applauded for their work, this group was voted the best of the best:

Football - Keith Barden

Baseball - Lenn Brantley

Boys Basketball - David Cofer

Girls Basketball - Mark Boyd

Softball - Dave Brown

Cheerleading - Rachel Grant

Boys Soccer - Robert Newhouse

Girls Soccer - Lee Coleman

Coach of the Year - Charlie Blackwell

I grew up playing sports through the Columbia County Recreation Department, so I have first-hand knowledge of what an important role these coaches can play in the lives of young people.

All of you who have participated in youth league sports, think for a moment. I bet you, too, have a coach who made a big impact in your life and helped mold you into the person you are today. So if you know a person who serves as a coach through the recreation department or any other youth organization, give them a big pat on the back next time you see them. They definitely deserve it.