Coach Jeff Yearing, RHS Class of 1966, became "Coach Years" long after I moved on from Ridgewood. He is a retired teacher of 39 years. Taught PE and health in the Ridgewood Public Schools. He was the Varsity soccer coach and married his high school sweetheart.
Here is a post of his I found on FaceBook, a site I read but rarely post on these days. I share his belief that athletics can teach some very profound life lessons. How we play the game is much more important than the winning of a particular contest.
"Thank you for your
repost. In these trying times it is more important than ever to live in a
world that recognizes the basic right of equality and our
responsibility towards treating everyone with kindness and
respect. Athletics is a great equalizer
and teacher. It exposes us to the pragmatic fact that the result doesn't
depend on race, ideology or sexual preference. The only thing that matters
is the result and how we conduct ourselves as competitors win or
loose. Many say sport is a microcosm of society. If we all could learn and
embrace positive lessons it offers through good coaching, leadership
and grace under pressure, I think we could help make a dent in the
problems that continue to persist and are exasperated by those that
choose to impose their misdirected wills upon those less able to
respond. Treat others as you would have them treat you. Such a simple
philosophy that so many have not grasped, been taught or practice. Be safe
and keep fighting the good fight for equality, human rights and social
justice.
Years."
Years."
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