Joe The Coach; My View Of Sports

I got a real treat last week, because I went to see the Greenbrier Middle School Team play football against Eiyria Middle School. It was really refreshing to see the youngsters play for the love of the game. My neighbor Joel played, and he loved it. He has never had equipment on in his life, so this was his first real season. He had a grin from ear to ear, and Mom said he loves it. Joel is my snow shoveler in the winter, and when I would bug him, he would tell me that he would rather play basketball; I asked him, "Why not do both?" I also told him that if basketball didn't work out that he should wrestle. The youngsters have to pay $75.00, but I think it is well worth it. He has a  stocky build and probably is better suited for wrestling, but I think they should try them all. I never got the chance to play football until I was in the 9th grade at St. Edward but finished at St. John Cantius,and went on a full scholarship to a division 1 university with a football scholarship, so give yourself a chance. Girls - you too. There are many girls' sports, so give them a try.

The older boys in high school suffered by not having middle school teams; numbers were down, but the price went down, too. What they missed in middle school were a lot of fundamentals in the game. The high school coaches had to pick that up and teach some who had never played. More power to them; that is when you really have to know the fundamentals of the game. Up to this 9th week, Parma has an edge on the other two schools. Records don't mean much, nor are they important at this point in time. Parma has a impressive back by the name of Aaron Horak. He had 372 rushing yards in his last game, and he is only a junior. I will have my eye on him next year. I was a high school fullback at about 200 pounds, but slow. He is 170, fast and shifty. Hope he gets bigger -- and he should thank the line. Normandy is in second place: they are well coached but lack size and numbers. I am sure the coaches will beef them up. The Vally Forge team plays Normandy and should have a great game.  I see that there will be some fundamentals taught this week.

Congratulations to Lady Invaders for winning the division volleyball title! Keep it going, girls; we're rooting for you! I also see that the cross country runners from all three schools are to compete in the NOC  championships. Good luck!

Padua and Holy Name are having good years in football, but losing a key game or two is a shame. Finish it off with wins, maybe a playoff berth. I played in the Catholic school system and I know it's tough, but so are you. I played in your conference when it was called the North Central Conference, made the all-star team and dream team. Those days are gone by 50 years. We are proud of you.

Maybe no NBA this year; I am sure those millionaires need more [tongue in cheek]. As for the Browns, I hope Colt can get it together for a whole game. I am disappointed with the offensive line. He needs time to throw and needs a healthy Hillis. You're only as good as your line. When I made guard in college, I found out how important blocking is.

Hey, if you ever disagree, or just want to talk sports, give me a ring, or email.

Joe Finding  440-886-5136     COACHJOE61@COX.NET