Coach Moore

Going into my sophomore year at Arrowhead High School, I needed a change. I had been rowing since sixth grade. It was a sport that defined me, and I thought I would be participating in it for many more years. However, my health deteriorated. I realized I could not keep up with the uber competitive atmosphere of rowing. I had to quit, and that led me to join cross country. 

But I was not a runner. I remember dreading my first cross country practice. I remember the heat of the late August morning; how the sun beat down on the asphalt at Lisbon Park. 

I remember the dread, as I had never ran competitively before. And I remember feeling lost; I did not know a single team member. 

Coach Moore was the first person I talked to. He came up to me and asked if I was comfortable running three miles with his group. Reluctantly, I agreed. The team warmed up and then jogged over to the trail to begin the run. It started off easy enough, but soon I struggled with the pace. I began to hear the familiar voice of self-doubt in my head. You can’t keep up, slow down. As the voice continued, Coach Moore was at my side. He stayed with me throughout the rest of the run, making conversation and distracting me from my negative thoughts. He refused to leave me behind and to my surprise, I finished the run with the rest of the group. 

My first interaction with Coach Moore indicated he was someone I could trust. Throughout the years that he was my coach, he proved that. He showed up to each practice ready to make the most of the time we had. He prepared me for races, motivating me by building my confidence through training and support. He noticed my struggles and celebrated my achievements. For me, Coach Moore was the person I looked to during the pain of a 5K. He continuously reminded me I was capable, and I have learned from him. He taught me the power of positivity; that a good outlook can do wonders. He taught me perfection is not the goal, and that it’s ok to give yourself a break. He taught me self respect comes from how you view yourself, not how others view you. 

Coach, thank you for showing me that my best is enough. Thank you for taking the time to know me, for seeing me as more than just an athlete. Thank you for listening to me, for supporting me through success, injury, and doubt. You truly have impacted me in a way that I will forever be grateful for.