All tagged coaching

A True Believer: How Coach Sam Mackey Inspires Greatness

can still recall the first time I met Coach Mackey. Our interactions were filled with jokes and laughter, a testament to his genuine and approachable personality. He has a way of making you feel at ease, of brightening a room with his infectious humor. But beneath that lighthearted exterior lay an unwavering intensity and a fierce dedication to his craft. When it was time to work, Coach Mackey transformed. I remember the days of him yelling "set up for power cleans," pushing us to give every ounce of effort and leave nothing behind. He instilled in us a work ethic that was, above all, rooted in belief. He believed in our potential, and in doing so, he taught us to believe in ourselves.

The Unforgettable Fire of Coach Johnson

Coach Johnson was a man of intense passion. He didn’t just coach football or track; he lived it, and he expected the same from his players. There were no games, no shortcuts. His presence on the field was a constant reminder that mediocrity was not an option. He pushed hard during practices, on the track, and even through our most troubling days, and you couldn't help but respect him for it. His passion wasn't just for the sport; it was for the person. Coach Johnson joined the coaching staff with the late, great Coach Chris Deal after coming from Salisbury, bringing a new level of intensity and discipline to the team.

The Heart of a Champion: A Legacy Built Beyond the Scoreboard

That simple philosophy of treating people with respect and kindness was the foundation of his coaching and teaching. It was also the secret to the success of his girls' basketball team. Williams's first year was a challenge, with the team securing only one win. But he was relentless, and he assembled a coaching staff that shared his vision: Coach Maury Holt, Assistant Coach Angela Pittman, Assistant Coach Tyrone Terry, and later, Assistant Coach Alexis Fowler. Together, they transformed the program, with the team going undefeated in their fourth year—a historic first for Lexington Middle School.