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I remember in 2010, my son Jelani was on the Malverne Wildcats football team. He was in the Pee Wee division and was fortunate to have two of the most outstanding coaches. Coach Troy was one of them. From the onset, Coach Troy had a way with these 5 and 6 year olds that would rival a veteran school teacher. He dealt with potty breaks, cuts and scraps, squabbles between teammates, defiance, and helicopter moms. Coach Troy did this all with a smile as long as a football field, and an infectious laugh that would cause anyone to forget what their troubles were.
I'll never forget the day that Coach Troy informed us that the Pee Wees were going on a team field trip to Hooters. "Hooters!" I exclaimed. "What about Chuck E. Cheese?" I thought. After all, they were only 5 and 6 years old. Coach Troy replied, "Grown men do grown men things. We're going to Hooters. Besides they have great wings." Needless to say, I hesistantly brought Jelani to Hooters to meet with his teammates. While I sat at the table with the Pee Wees and their coaches, I was amazed. They were sitting patiently, engaging each other in conversation, laughing, patting each other on the back...they were truly a team! Coach Troy made sure that the Malverne Wildcats were given a shout-out, and as the team stood together in a huddle, the entire restaurant cheered for them. They were celebrities for the night, and as an added bonus, the wings were great! When the night came to an end and we were going back to our car, my 5 year old son looked up at me with such excitement and exclaimed, "I love Hooties! I want to come back here!"
Coach Troy, thank you for teaching Jelani the importance of perseverance, patience, passion, and teamwork. My prayers go out to your famly. May they find some solace with the understanding that although you are gone, you will never be forgotten.