Welcome to the Colorado Coach Diary!

I cannot believe we finally arrived in Colorado. This is the most difficult part of my life I will ever experience. Thankfully, my three boys Josh, Jake, and Jaiden are all doing well with the move from inner city Chicago. The neighbors in North Colorado Springs have helped immensely along with the school administrators and teachers. Josh just turned 5, Jake is 3 and Jaiden 1. Josh starts kindergarten tomorrow in District 38 at a Charter School – tough to enroll especially if you do not know the environment or have a family history. We are completely unknown with a relatively new house purchased from the bank under a foreclosure sale. Everything on the house was completed including landscaping. The owner had to bail due to illness. I offered to let him stay for a period; but he moved out of state into a relative’s basement. Our kids already have friends within 24 hours and they are playing hide and seek with a large group of kids. Jaiden just began walking so he is not competitive – though he thinks he is a serious player. The weather is perfect and I can see Pikes Peak with a small amount of snow. Some of our belongings are yet to arrive; and we are sleeping on mattresses in the living room. The kids surround me and we have been sleeping on one mattress. 

Josh asks when mommy is coming back. Jake says mom constantly; and Jaiden mutters mom also – like mummy. I frankly need a counselor for me to help with the kids and explain what has happened. We drove from Chicago; and the kids assumed mom was coming later despite me informing them otherwise. It is hard not to break out in flowing tears like Niagara Falls. I am trying to not talk on my iPhone to friends and family when the kids are around; but it is difficult. I am hearing constantly from administrators, coaches, parents, family, and the Colorado High School Athletic Association endlessly. There seem to be more school and athletic rules about everything in the day and age of political correctness, gender disorientation, participation trophy culture and grade inflation. The administrators, coaches, and parents have warned me already about pressure to allow bad-grade players to play, transgender kids wanting on the team, and potential drug issues in Colorado – like THC/fentanyl/methamphetamine. I do not expect my players to be angels; but, if they want to play, they will abide by the rules. This is a great opportunity and Colorado Sports Academy High School to have winning teams. 

I have been assigned English class. My English classes will be strict and fundamental. I will begin with middle school basics and advance to college level English.  All students will be required to know 100% of the material; and I expect all of them to master the real language from its primordial origins. I want learning to be fun and productive. Expectations will be for my classes to master all the material and advance onto college, military, or trade school. I have added phonics and cursive to the curriculum at my discretion. There will be days without computers and iPhone in my class. I informed the school, parents, and coaches regarding my strictness with coaching and English instruction. The transgender issue will be followed by CHSA rules which states that the school will determine the appropriate gender assignment for sports participation. I am not sweating this since I highly respect transgenders. If we have a transitioned biological girl playing football, I will meet with the family, physician, and administrators individually to ensure we are on the same page regarding risks and other issues (like bathrooms). I will ensure safety and privacy for all students. I dealt with this issue in Chicago; and it was not a big deal. 

My football practices at Colorado Sports Academy High School will be quite rugged. Two-a-days with one session film and bulletin board coaching fundamentals in street clothes will occur. Most of these athletes transferring into Colorado Sports Academy High School will be instructed that every position is competitive; and practice and play will determine the depth chart. The expectations for our new school (Colorado Sports Academy High School) are quite high. I have been interviewed when I walked onto our new property by The Denver Post, KOA radio, and even ESPN. Our school will play 5A in all sports due to our high enrollment (> 939 students). I like the competition along the front range; but expectedly we will be playing elite schools with a winning legacy and culture. Though I was successful in Chicago and had offers throughout the United States for taking a beleaguered inner City Chicago team to the state championship, I have an uphill fight in all the sports I will coach - including football, basketball, and golf. My salary has doubled; but my stress has quadrupled. 

Janae, my wife, left our world early. We tried every imaginable treatment for her metastatic and painful breast cancer. Nothing worked and she just worsened clinically. The home hospice was very difficult on the kids because none of them understood the gravity of Mom’s fatal illness. I needed to provide her morphine constantly to barely dull the pain. It required her to be asleep nearly 24/7. We discussed delaying the Colorado move for a year; but she insisted the job would not be open. Janae wanted to move back home to Colorado and have our kids experience skiing, hockey, and fly-fishing. We kept hoping she would improve and rid her body of this scourge. Despite the illness, Janae made me promise to take the job, move, and love our kids. It is difficult for myself to go on; but I am doing this out of total respect for my wife. Staying in Chicago I would have had day care, a nanny, a winning team, and plenty of perks. Finishing settling Janae’s estate after the funeral and dealing with endless amounts of family affairs with small kids was difficult. Thankfully, it was during the summer and I had time to deal with Janae’s death. Colorado is a new start; and I will move on per Janae’s directive. I will survive. Janae made me promise to write a diary and publish it in her honor - perhaps do a podcast. I love English, cursive, and writing. I will “flat-out” do it in her honor. 

I received a call from an assistant coach in Denver who removed himself from the Denver Cherry Creek High School coaching squad due to an incident with a girls track team. He is an excellent and renown coach in many high school sports. A female track star accused him of discrimination and playing favorites after she was removed from a relay team. The Cherry Creek School District met; and before the hearing was completed, the coach decided he would leave to find another opportunity. The school released him with a mutual release and severance with no further hearings or litigation planned. The gal on the track squad later admitted she lied and she was appropriately demoted due to slower track times and not discrimination. Her times in the 100 meters had fallen to 5thon the team. Thus, she was made a substitute and trained with the team daily. Previously, she had been the anchor of this state winning girls 4x100 relay team. Now I have got my first mess. I would like to hire this guy (Hal Stevens) to begin with football. I do not want distractions nor the media following our team and him around looking for creative journalism. I want our squad to be about winning football; not personal matters or enlightened gossip. Thus, I will discuss this with the school board and Superintendent. The school has provided myself free reign over the hiring and firing of coaches as I am also the athletic director. They have combined the positions for now to save on salaries and duplication. My 6-figure salary is enough for me to survive and maintain a family. I am wading water somewhat, nervous, and anxious about the future. I would have stayed in Chicago if Janae had not made me promise her to raise our kids in Colorado. I will make the best of the situation. 

Janae’s parents live in Greenwood Village – the upper crust area of Denver. Janae detested some of her family’s wealth; but was close to her parents. I get along great with her parents (Sherry and Herb Tompkins). They were successful oil shale business partners and sold their company to a conglomerate for a wonderful parachute at the end of their career. They love sports and loved me because I was a coach. Janae and I met at a turn style in Soldier Field. She was an accountant for the Wrigley Family. Janae’s perk was two free Bears tickets. She was running out of Soldier Field and her lengthy purse caught on the turn style. Janae fell to the ground in an awkward position. I thought she really hurt herself. Janae was more shocked than hurt. Her supposed boyfriend just stared and essentially did zero. I helped her to her feet and she smiled at me and frowned at the boyfriend. We talked for a minute as I picked up her coat, purse belongings and said good-bye.

I never thought anything about her until at the end of football practice two days later she revealed herself and asked if she could observe. After I recognized Janae, I informed her if she was not a spy from a neighboring competitor; it was okay to watch. Recording on her iPhone was not allowed. She wanted to thank me for picking her up at Soldier Field. I felt it was the right thing to do; and it was not that big of a deal. I asked her how she found me. Janae said I had a shirt on that read Manion Prep Coaching. Her office is not far from the practice field near downtown Chicago. She wanted to thank me by purchasing supper at a nearby café. I said this was satisfactory and would work. Unfortunately, I had an injured player that needed an orthopedist tonight. I was taking him to Cook County ER. She then asked if she could tag along; and I agreed. I met his parents there and it revealed an ankle fracture requiring a pin the following morning – season over for our starting tailback. The parents took him home and Janae and I late traveled to the hospital cafeteria for my “thank you” supper. 

Janae basically dumped her boyfriend the day after the incident at Soldier Field. Janae and I never really dated and fell in love apparently at Soldier Field. We meshed with friends, coaches, families, and jobs. Janae always made football practices as our team won the most competitive class state high school football (5A). She had more fun spectating than I did coaching.  She missed a monthly period, I proposed, and we were married 3 months after we met. I was extremely fortunate in finding such a great all-around spouse. Janae knew what she wanted. She strongly desired kids, Colorado, and me. I felt fortunate in having a beautiful blue-eyed Catholic blond chasing me. My family in Chicago loved Janae. Janae loved all my Tremby brothers, sisters, and parents. We all “got along” well and saw each other frequently. Janae loved that my family was middle class and lived-in inner-city Chicago. Underneath, my mother was worried about us leaving for Colorado and the 1000-mile separation. Mom loved the grandchildren and was a worthy frequent baby-sitter. Dad also helped a ton. Now, I am on my own living in Colorado and living out Janae’s dream.

My in-laws, Sherry, and Herb Tompkins, have been down to see the grandkids some; and it has gone reasonably well. Sherry (Mom-in-law) has already intimated that she has completed scouting and background checks on available “suitable” women in her area. I am under-reacting to all this surrounding fluffiness. I am not even close to another relationship, want to concentrate on coaching and the kids, and barely have enough time to get my work as AD completed (hiring a girl’s JV volleyball coach in the morning if all goes well). I am trying to be nice; and will fend off Janae’s mom from diverting my focus on coaching. I could lose all 12 games this year and be media, parent, and player blasted…potentially removed. This school is an experiment for the Colorado Springs area to attract great student athletes and compete against Denver superiority on the athletic and academic fields. Sunday afternoons I will be diagramming plays instead of sitting in a girlfriend’s living room in Greenwood Village with everyone staring and evaluating me. I am a guy and a coach…now a parent. I can figure life out without intrusions; and I do not need another distraction in my life. Perhaps in a few months, I can date, but, assuredly, not now. The phone is ringing with the district superintendent on the phone about hiring Coach Stevens; and our younger child is crying. Enough for today. 

Wow! The superintendent said that the Denver Post already reported that we were hiring Coach Stevens. I will need to get to the bottom of this issue. Coach Stevens may have thought it was an easy extra point in procuring this job. Coach Stevens has not gone through the background check nor an interview yet. There is my phone ringing and it is the Denver Post asking me when Coach Stevens starts? I asked the reporter where he obtained the information; and he replied that was from Coach Hal Stevens himself (Whoa!). The reporter then asked me about Stevens’s if I was aware of the girls’ track squad discrimination suit that Coach Stevens walked away from. The reporter asked if I had any other knowledge of Coach Hal Stevens discriminating while coaching. I told the reporter I was not aware of any of any further discrimination or wrongful conduct. The track squad girl athlete was appropriately demoted due to her slower times on the relay. The track athlete later stated she lied; and most probably Coach Stevens would have been exonerated within the upcoming hearings. Coach Stevens elected to move on, obtain a severance, and find another coaching job. I was not aware of any further allegations. Coach Stevens needed to still undergo a routine background check and interview. Finally, the woman reporter (who was very nice) asked about Colorado Sports Academy High School using a pro-set on offense and a 3-5 on defense. I informed her that we just are becoming organized; and, I would let her know depending on personnel.

We discussed that many skill players on offense on my recent football teams had the ability to run, catch, and throw the pigskin. On defense, I loved the 3-5 because per football rules you must have a minimum of three players on scrimmage. I also felt the 5 linebackers could shift into their power zone with some players entering the line and others following receivers in the flat. Generally, we zone with shallow and deep cover 2 or 3 depending on the opponent. The gal seemed very knowledgeable about football. She left the phone conversation saying she would be quite neutral in Coach Stevens’s treatment in print. Off the record, she informed me that she lost her husband back-country skiing last year. The woman reporter inquired how I was coping with the Colorado media exploiting my widower status. All I could say is that I dearly miss Janae, I am tired, I am looking forward to the season, and there are plenty of unknowns ahead. She said she would be covering The Colorado Sports Academy High School games with the Denver Post.  The gal, Missy Bradford, then asked if she could interview me, Coach Wilford Tremby. I became a bit nervous and reluctantly said yes. I have just moved here and am barely getting my feet on the ground. Most of my furniture is on a moving truck! 

I hung up the phone and felt I performed adequately. I reasoned that much of this was forthcoming since I was a heavily recruited coach from Chicago. I am just a high school coach and AD; nothing more. I am worried about getting spanked by Denver 5A teams ready to crush our school off the map. I could ski right off the mountain and back to Chicago after the first football season. Fans are not of the mind-set about building a program – only immediate wins count. Losses are akin to a black mark on your soul – like a Baltimore Catechism mortal sin mark on your chest – hard to remove. I said I would never do this; but I did check out Missy Bradford on social media. Surprisingly, she is great looking, popular, and was pregnant with her first child when her former husband had the skiing accident. Again, I said I would never resort to this stuff; but here I am already showing a sliver of interest in a girl. Enough for tonight. Tuck the kids in and hope our furniture gets here tomorrow since we are tired of sleeping on floor mattresses. 

The team meeting with the parents is tonight. Everyone is anxious. Despite our team winning the Illinois state championship last year, there was no media surrounding practices or team meetings. We were unknown and just played football at Manion High School in inner city Chicago. There are many days I wish I was there and coaching football again. Sadly, I left after a 5A championship high school football run. Most people questioned the move – especially after Janae’s untimely death. I told the Chicago Tribune the absolute truth about the Colorado sojourn. Chicago is over and I need to move on. I am dealing with diapers, pre-school, not having much of our personal stuff due to moving truck screw-ups. Now, I am dealing with endless school issues surrounding the team, transfer players, presumptive hire of controversial Coach Hal Stevens with an interview, and pushy parents. I am overwhelmed at night dealing with the single parent thing, Colorado Sports Academy High School expectations, lesson plans and three babies needing their mom. I will somehow get through this ordeal. Janae’s parents are consumed by me being single and available. They do not understand I need some grieving time and restructuring of my emotions. I am not interested in forging into some half-baked relationship currently. 

Well, the football meeting with the parents was interesting. I received a mouthful from parents, student-athletes, teachers, and administrators. Everything was discussed including my playbook, rules, grades, depth charts and of course, Hal Stevens from Denver. Many parents expressed concern having this guy in the building or on campus. I felt he needed to be given a fair shake. The superintendent then stood-up and said Stevens was implicitly and explicitly exonerated; and there were no other issues forthcoming. The Coach Stevens issue attracted a ton of conventional and social media attention in Denver – though it ended rightfully. The superintendent then said that CoachWilford Tremby and himself would be interviewing Stevens and treating him like all the other coaching candidates. That issue was solved excepting one parent who had a frosh gal attending Colorado Sports Academy High School on the soccer team. She had grave misgivings about Stevens. I felt she was entitled to her opinion; and that she could become pro-active on the school board or PTO. She said she was attempting both. 

I tucked my three little guys in on the mattress in the living room. Josh said while at kindergarten today that all moms would be coming on the field trip on Friday – the very first week of school. His new friend, Kent, down the block asked when Josh’s mom would show up. I had to inform Josh again that Mom went to heaven, would not ever be back until we die, and then we would be reunited. Josh wanted to know if I was being the mom on the field trip. I said I had football practice and English class. We then stared at one another with tears in all four eyes, hugged, and I said I would be the mom on the field trip. I would advance my English class the next day’s lesson and have a film session with the other coaches and players until I arrived home. We open next week against a very tough north Denver team on the road. Our football team needs to be ready. 

I could not sleep now and thought about the team meeting. A dad brought up from his research that I ran a ton of RPO (run-pass options). His question was about containment of the defensive end or outside linebacker. I explained that our athletic quarterbacks would make decisions based on the immediate gap created. I love speed around the outside. Outside containment by the defense requires our flanker, tight end, and wideout to have the outside shoulder of the outside linebacker and defensive end blocked on outside defensive containment. Our QB with field vision does not necessarily have to follow the blocking scheme. Our offensive line is blocking down. If we pull a tackle or guard the middle linebacker and safety will immediately follow. The QB will take the crease inside or outside if it develops. If the contain comes towards the QB, a pitch to the trail back occurs as the flanker and wideout are blocking inward. The RPO (run-pass option) also has an immediate or delayed pass option with the weak side speedy end doing a post pattern across the middle of the field. This will be open if the deep safety commits to the run. The pass must obviously lead the streaking wideout. We have got a ton of practicing ahead of us! Goodnight Janae. 

I awoke today amidst a sea of rain. These Colorado storms can be brutal; and near tornado weather occurred prompting the school district to delay classes two hours. I will get Josh to school and Jake to preschool. At least our clothes are here; and the rest of our personal belongings are arriving this afternoon. The nanny caring for Jaiden has arrived on time; and we are reviewing her salary/hours/duties. She is a UCCS student with night classes – full time three days per week. Her friend subs as nanny if I need her for evening meals and babysitting if I am gone. I found both on the internet. The kids think they have a new mom; and I am good with that. The storm appears to be receding. I am busy and will keep moving on. If I was in Chicago, my mom would have been here; and I would not be dealing with all this myself. I need to get these thoughts out of my mind. 

I have a late football practice and coaches meeting. The coaches have already warned me about Coach Stevens from Denver. Further allegations have surfaced. I called the superintendent and we both decided until the allegations went through hearings, that we would defer the interview. What a relief! I feel bad for Coach Stevens; but within our society with allegations within coaching equates to guilty until proven innocent. I hope Coach Stevens gets through this mess – my research informs me he is an excellent coach of multiple sports. Thus, at the coaches meeting we will just discuss players, depth charts, offensive and defensive schemes, and prepare for the game this weekend. I want Colorado Sports Academy High School to be respectful.

I finished my lesson plans for the year and submitted them to the school board and administration for my English classes. There was some fluttering regarding the phonics, cursive, and bulletin board competitions. I explained we would all learn by having one-on-one by teams go to the blackboard and answer questions individually and through your team if needed. If Team A can get the correct adverb with proper spelling and syntax in a phrase, the team receives two points. If the team collectively gets it correct after the student is not 100%, then it is one point. If the opposition gets it correct after Team A fails, it is three points to the opposition. I am testing grammar, spelling, literature, vocabulary, phonics, proper English, and common sense. English is the global language; and it never stops expanding and yearning for us to learn common and intellectual use. Our students will know the basics and more upon finishing the year including some of the very best writers and linguistics historically – like William Shakespeare. 

The field trip was great this afternoon after I hustled back to late football practice. Josh was happy as I dropped him off with our Nanny. As we left the bus, one of the apparently single recently divorced moms came upon me quite strong and asked a multitude of questions. I tried to be nice and inform her that I was not interested. She was cute and did not mind registering for a rain check. Oh my God! A single guy (now a widower) is out there waiting for a match. I want none of this now. I am not a fan of blending families since I have enough on my plate and do not need to assume another family’s misgivings or life failures. Time to sign up for regular Sunday mass. 

We won the game Saturday night v a great Denver team and program. The game was fast and furious. I felt we had the better prepared players; but the ability of the opposition was perhaps a step above our team. We employed on defense a 3-5 set-up (3 down linemen and 5 linebackers). We played Cover-2 (2 deep safeties) most of the game. Their QB was dynamic and I placed our spy defensive back on the QB to follow him on sweeps, drop backs, run-pass options, or any play coming from that offense. It worked fabulously since our spy had 12 tackles and 6 on the QB. Our aim was to limit the QB and allow our air-raid offense to flourish. When we needed plays, our offense produced some great ingenuity, power, and finesse. All the drills to evade tacklers after a hand-off or pass reception worked wonderfully. I cannot be prouder of our team since we only had 2 weeks to prepare for the season opener. We now have 1 week to prepare for another Denver powerhouse. The parents, players, and school administrators were quite excited after the win. Our very first school win in any sport. Cheerleaders were incredibly excited to bring on their athleticism and energy to our team both to and from the evening football game. 

Missy Bradford, the Denver Post woman reporter grabbed me before I stepped on the bus and congratulated me on a great game and plan. She twinkled at me with her eyes; and admittedly she was startling in her appearance. I thanked her and was spellbound for a moment. I jumped on the bus as the bus driver said we are leaving. The coaches all questioned me about the young reporter who was gleaming at me. I told them she came to practice a couple days out of interest for the team. Her name is Missy Bradford and she will be following our team for the Denver Post. The coaches all felt there was more than professional interest. I scoffed at these ideas and said I have plenty of issues at home. We then planned 0700 coaches meeting and film session Saturday morning for two hours; followed by a light practice with the team including light pads and film. We escaped with an ankle sprain to our punt returner; but I feel he will be ready to go in one week– our next game. 

I arrived home and thanked the Nanny. I discovered that the kids really liked her; and were calling her mom. I was so tired, thanked, paid and bonused the Nanny, and then placed the kids on now their own beds. Jayden had dirty diapers and a rash. I used Janae’s special ointment and hopefully by morning it will have receded.  I am on my way to bed and my text went off from Missy Bradford stating that your defensive spy on that great Denver quarterback won the game. I gave her a return thumbs-up. Reporters are graded on neutrality and fair reporting. This is not within the rules, is biased, and not even close to neutrality. I will have some future decisions to make. I am going to bed. 

The coaches meeting went well despite the nanny showing up a half hour late. I am at a crossroads with having to obtain a nanny for every step out of the house. Nannies have schedules also. Perhaps I do need a woman in my life; however, most of the women modernly are professional demanding a nanny for them. Daycare is a possibility; but daycare on weekends in expensive and tenuous. Perhaps, I just teach and not coach until these kids are older and can care for themselves. It is stressful worrying about whether the nanny will show or not show. I am at a real professional and family crossroads. I know I do not want Janae’s parents here 24/7; as that would be a disaster and an opinion or ruling on everything we do here. Janae’s mom would be critical of meals, hours, lifestyle, clothes and perhaps even if I went on a date. She never stops troubling myself regarding the available high-profile gals in Greenwood Village. These gals have become known to myself through social media and other avenues the Tompkins have established. 

Practice with our team was tremendous. We have two full weeks to prepare for a very difficult opponent. Their skill positions, blocking, tackling and play schemes are tremendous. It will be uphill to defeat this team. We discussed surprising them with a wishbone offense and running that until they can stop the triple threats. Our QB last game with RPO (Run/Pass Option) was tremendous. We discussed the hand signal change pre-snap with the hand pointing towards our goal if scheming right and hand pointing towards our end zone if we scheme left. Attention to the contain player – be it outside linebacker or defensive end was emphasized. Players asked about sign stealing; and I said we would periodically huddle and raise our arms meaning nothing. The QB would in the huddle or with audible or hand clap signals would call the direction of the wishbone. All plays on offense would be initiated from the same backs, gaps, and schemes as our pro-set. Clapping snap counts mainly would be schemed. Barring a needed departure from our ongoing structured plays and schemes, I remain quite optimistic about maintaining integrity on both sides regarding stealing coaches sideline signs. 

Josh has his first birthday party from school at 2 PM today. I will drop him off with a book present I just received on Amazon. I want to watch some early college football. I have received some very good offers from some high school and collegiate elite programs to join their staff soon. That is another move, outside of Colorado, and against Janae’s wishes for our kids. I will reply due to family obligations that I cannot consider the job at present. My text rings and it is Missy Bradford asking if she can call regarding a few questions the Denver Post has regarding our team. Jake is crying and Jayden is sleeping in the back kids’ car seat. Despite this, I call her back and inform her that once I pick up Josh from the birthday party and get them settled with Saturday evening meal, I will call (6 PM Ish). I am still wondering about this Missy Bradford. I think she wants a date; but it is too soon after Janae’s death. Missy is a few months after her husband’s skiing death; so, she is ready to move on in a relationship. I really do not want to go down this road – even though she is attractive and a good person. I need to concentrate 100% on my kids. 

I awoke on Sunday morning after staying up late with the kids playing games last evening. They had tremendous fun and slept well. Since we have received our furniture and the rooms are now all well fitted, you would think the kids would sleep in their beds. All three slept with me; and I finally fell asleep. Missy and I talked after the kids went to sleep nearly two full hours – mostly about football off the record. She explained her situation in Denver with her parents bringing her up in Highlands Ranch – near Greenwood Village. She was on a cheer team in high school and competitively cheered against Janae’s team. Missy remembered her well because they were both captains. The cheerleading state competition was in the Denver Coliseum with those two teams fighting for the state championship. Interesting, their families knew each other additionally through social connections. I nearly asked her for a date; but then came to my senses because I am just not ready. Missy asked if she could attend a couple practice sessions. I warned against any recording devices and she agreed. 

Sherry and Herb Tompkins arrived at our house Sunday at 4 PM with a basket of food and presents for the kids. We talked about the job, schools, and daycare for the kids. Sherry Tompkins inquired about my love life. I under-reacted to Janae’s Mom and said I was not ready. This was somewhat upsetting to Janae’s parents as they cannot possibly understand how I can cope with the child duties, coaching, and teaching responsibilities. I informed them that I appreciated their sincere interest in my wellbeing; but the dating and personal stuff would be on my own per Janae’s directives. The Tompkins grumbled and moved on. I let them know that Janae knew her parents would be intimately interested in my private life. I certainly appreciate their family interest; but it is difficult and uphill to inform relatives that you are just not ready for a relationship. 

After they left about 1900 hours the kids laying on our bed repeatedly stated they wanted a brand-new puppy – just born. I said with reluctance that we would seriously consider a family pet puppy. The neighbors down the street had a cocker-spaniel baby and were quite happy. The puppy was house-broke in two weeks. I feel the kids without a mom deserve a puppy – though I know I will be the caretaker and master. I will deal with the issues as long as the kids remain happy. I will scout out the litter; and hopefully they still had a baby puppy not sold. 

My assistant coach as offensive coordinator called late Sunday evening with concerns over the wishbone. He felt the offense was too predictable and without a consistent passing attack. I explained for our team to beat a powerhouse, we had to control (hog) the ball, not allow their offense on the field, and our only hope of winning was to keep it close until the end. He understood as we added a passing wrinkle over the phone. I also added a double reverse to keep the defense honest – making that play in the first quarter. I love football!

School has been very busy with my English, phonics, and literature classes. I have full classes and have been asked to add more students and classes – though my schedule is stuffed this semester. I enjoy teaching along with coaching. All my classes begin with basic spelling, phonics, cursive writing (no computers in many classes), and literature. I feel all our students need to be aware of all the great writers, emulate these masters and begin to create grammatically correct writings. Our classes delve into music with Renaissance and post Renaissance writings and music. The father of the Baroque period was Johann Sebastian Bach – who wrote, performed, and instructed classical music with the addition of appoggiaturas, trills, embellishments, and poignant resolving dissonance throughout his pieces. It would require a student to play 60 years 24/7 non-stop to capture all that Bach wrote. Culturally, all of today’s music of many genres emanate from Bach. I studied music for many years. Many parents wanted myself to instruct piano; but the music department is just down the hall. Perhaps after coaching is music instruction. 

Writing takes many forms in the English language – be it a novel, short story, musical or theatrical script play, letter, email, book report, journalism, or text message. I want our students to be educated and master the basics of English and literature. I sent home a homework assignment on Stephen Sondheim, the Father of American Broadway. After lecturing the students about his musicals and written and performed classic Broadway tunes, I wanted them all to bring a piece of Sondheim to class tomorrow. I led by informing the class that Sondheim was nearly abandoned at age 10, grew up with Oscar Hammerstein II, and wrote the music for 16 Broadway musicals such as West Side Story, Sweeney Todd, and many others in collaboration with the very best writers on Broadway. I wanted the class to expand on the genius of Sondheim by bringing one fact about Sondheim to class. My pearl is that he played the 16 Bach Invention pieces daily. 

Tomorrow is puppy day. I am prepared; and the kids are so excited. Football practice is intensifying with many players becoming far better than expected. I feel we can compete. Good night!

Life can be tumultuous teaching in high school modernly due to social media, parental, and administrative pressure. Working as a high school teacher, you become a mini-celebrity. As a coach, you become the icon if you win; and the toilet if you lose. If you are 500 and win half your games, you are unmistakably mediocre and need to be replaced. I have a new school with new athletes and expectations. I do not feel my guys on the football team are anything close presently to my Chicago championship 5A team from last year. My job is to get them there – at the premier of their potential. Unfortunately, this is not easy with variable work ethics, parents, high academic standards at our new school (Colorado Sports Academy High School) and other distractions. My main theme has been to keep practices at a reasonable length and focus on improvements in times and efficiencies. If the wheel route is not completed without defense on 10 out of 10 throws, we start a new sequence. I want my players prepared for competition between and among themselves. Weekly, we are having NFL combine drills with strength and conditioning, pass routes, tires, special forces drills – the works. Some players and even coaches complain by their actions; but I need to go beyond the limits and develop a winning attitude and culture through a hard work ethic. A missed routine tackle could mean the game and potentially playoffs.

I am adopting an old wishbone set to confuse Colorado High School football. Few teams coach and most cannot defend the QB runs, pitches, off tackle handoffs, and passes – truly offensive options. Most passes will emanate from our pro-set. The pro-set had a single I-back, flanker, two wideouts, and tight end. If the tight end is not lined up against a defender, I will pull an audible directing the tight end to slant inward or outward depending on the opposing linebacker. If open I will have an immediate pass thrown to him off the line of scrimmage. Otherwise, I will pull him back into the pocket for pass protection – an unusual blocker for the QB pocket protection. Confusing the defense, I will utilize in the 4th quarter a tackle eligible – which, if successful, brings enormous complaints from the opposition. My standard is to inform the refs, maintain the tackle eligible with a number between 50 and 79, and line him up as a tight end. It works generally in the 4thquarter because nobody is expecting the pass play to an offensive tackle. When I am third and short, I will shoot the tackle eligible in the flat with linebackers crashing and defensive backs worrying about fake runs and deep threats. Our tackle eligible must be able to catch with gloves on; and endless practice for the one or two plays per game is needed. Occasionally, I will pull the stunt in the first quarter. Tackle eligible is an amazing part of football lore; and catches very good defensive teams off-guard. 

Josh woke up this morning on the weekend and had already scouted out the neighbor’s cocker spaniel pups. They were all sold within 48 hours; but one male was returned last night. He is pulling at my shirt to travel down the block as a family and purchase this puppy. It is 0530; and a phone call would be appropriate. I need to discover the pup owner’s phone number; and besides, Jake and Jaiden are still sleeping in their bunks. I then informed Josh I was walking around the block for stretching. I walked out the back door and headed towards the neighbor who has the pup (who I do not know). I will just guess that he is house breaking the new pup and is outside. I find him outside coercing the new baby cocker spaniel to pee; we introduce ourselves and he already knows Josh (playing outside in the backyard). The neighbor, Thomas Whitten, informs me that the owner returned the pup without any reason and did not want his money back. The pup is worth $400 or more; but he states he will donate to a new owner so he can get his life back to normal. I said we were in the business of finding a new puppy; and immediately he offered the cocker spaniel pup with papers as a freebie. I offered to pay; but he said win some games and we are flush. I thought there is now neighborhood pressure to win. 

I carried the pup back home and walked in the door as all three boys were waiting. I informed my kids I found this little guy down the street needing a home. They fell in love and poured some milk in a large bowl of which it required 30 seconds for the pup to drink. I said we need a name for this guy (he was a male). Josh and Jaiden said Spark; so, it is Spark. We need a dog bed, leash, blanky – the works. My day is at the pet store or Amazon. I am now a superhero in my own house. Janae would think I have done the right thing. I realized my kids are far more important than my English teaching job or coaching. Again, Janae is looking down thinking I have done the best I could without her. I cry a touch wishing Janae could be here with me to relish the moment with our kids. 

Today was a crazy day for myself. I am struggling to keep my diary continuing – always thinking of Janae wanting me to record our family for our future kids, grandkids, and other family members. Diaries are mainly for females; but now I am starting to think this was a great idea of Janae’s. I sit up and night and try to read after my diary is completed. Some nights I honestly cannot sleep; but that is expected after losing my beloved wife. Janae’s not coming back; and I will grieve the rest of my life to a degree. I need to move on, not be depressed, and involve myself with meaningful relationships. It does not help having Janae’s parents upstream in Greenwood Village. In time, they will have to accept me and my family with life matters. Sherry, Janae’s mom, never stops wanting to “line me up” with a wealthy reputable family’s daughter. I have implicitly and explicitly said I was not ready; and perhaps could develop relationships by myself. I am far more concerned about my three kids, teaching, and coaching job at Colorado Sports Academy High School. At present, I do not have time for a relationship with a gal; but in time perhaps I will develop a partnership. I need to keep moving on. 

My English students are the very best. We are studying basic grammar on an expedited scale. Students and athletes are transferring to Colorado Sports Academy High School with varied backgrounds. I want 100% of our students learning basic English, learning to write (Including cursive), and develop practical use of phonics. These are “old school” courses which prepare students for life skills. Despite computers which can be programmed to do anything, computers cannot reason like humans. Written prose captures moods, feelings, and the tenor of the writer and the subject. I want to inspire our students who attend our class to be totally prepared for college and life. My lessons in literature, phonics, English, and written prose are intended to last a lifetime. I expect our students to publish, write books, communicate with articulation, and enjoy life. I set my pen down and I receive a text from Missy Bradford who wants to talk. I call her back and she wants to attend football practice tomorrow since the game Friday night is receiving tons of media attention. I texted back and said she could attend practice with no phone on or video equipment. I’ve also need to be prepared to attend Josh’s parent – teacher night tomorrow. The back-up nanny is coming; and I am looking forward to meeting with Josh’s teacher. He is doing well in kindergarten. Spark, our baby puppy, is barking and needs to attend to his bathroom duties outside. Tomorrow is a big day!

What a day! Practice was great because our team hit the blocking sleds with motivation and spirit. These guys want to win football games. I can handle a loss if our team gives 110%. I feel we are now focused and I have stressed our peck order of God/family as #1, academics #2, and football #3. These guys need support from all angles including the administration, teachers, coaches, fans, and media. Normally, I am not a fan of having media at practice; but Missy Bradford from the Denver Post has been quite helpful and positive in her coverage of Colorado Sports Academy High School. Her articles discuss our approach, strategy, training, and she has been quite upbeat and thoughtful covering our coaches. People know I coached an inner-city Chicago High School football team to the state championship. I plan on completing the same task in Colorado. I am finally impressed that our team is jelling because we have a tough opponent Friday night in Denver. Our QB has caught fire with his run-pass options and overall field and situational awareness while playing. He has made some great QB runs which have turned the tide in our first two games we won. We have utilized conventional and non-conventional defenses to confuse the opposition. Our turnover margins are positive; so, our instructions over ball security are succeeding. 

I received a call from Janae’s Mom about an afternoon social at her house in Greenwood Village. I am certain Sherry Tompkins (Janae’s mom) wants me to meet an eligible family friend’s daughter. This will not ever stop; and I will just have to deal with Janae’s parents. Perhaps I should not have moved here while trying to admonish Janae’s desires to have our kids raised on the front range of Colorado rather than inner city Chicago. I want to get along with Janae’s parents; and her mom will never stop until I have a replacement mom. I have told her repeatedly I am not ready for a relationship; and her response has been that I need to be involved in a relationship, marry, and live happily ever after. Thus, if attend this Sunday afternoon social, I will need to dress up (not my favorite for Sunday afternoon), hire the nanny for more weekend coverage, and deal with asking for a date with someone I do not know. Alternatively, I will have to deal with Janae’s parents if I do not respectfully ask this eligible person for a dinner date. I do not have time for any of this with three little kids. I need to think this matter through. 

I received a call from one of assistant coaches just before falling asleep. He informs me that most of our offensive line has influenza, will not be at practice the rest of the week, and the docs are informing them to bag this weekend’s game. I am frozen because our replacements are a big drop in ability, maturity, size, and overall game. We cannot afford false starts, off-sides, holding, or any other mishaps. I will talk to the parents and docs tomorrow morning and we will formulate a plan of attack. I realized illness and injuries are part of the competitive game, and our team and coaches will just deal with the issues and situation. Initially, I thought I would inform Missy Bradford (the Denver Post Sports Reporter following our team). The more I contemplate the situation, I will need to adjust and perhaps say out second-string line is “stepping up” if I am asked. I will deal!

Love is the very last thought on my mind. I am struggling with my job, the kids, coaching, and impediments emotionally and physically. I have started to jog (a millennial sport). I think a ton when I jog – especially about my football team, the loss of my wife (Janae), our kids, and whether I need to delve into the “singles” market. I feel I am still grieving over Janae (it has been 3 months from her death from metastatic (everywhere) breast cancer). I cry at night with many nights my body receiving minimal sleep. This is total grief; and it seems I will never get through this. A new female relationship may guide me through this grief; but then again, I will end up in a funnel into marriage relationship. There are obvious risks to any relationship. I do not want to attend to a gal; and then risk one of us “dumping” the supposed partner. I need to get over this thought. Janae has passed; and I need a new life. Perhaps I need to move back to Chicago. This idea is moving backwards because Janae wanted our kids to be mountain Coloradoans as youth. Janae wanted these kids skiing, playing hockey, snowshoeing, throwing snowballs, ice fishing, and cycling on mountain trails. That sounds great; but it seems my stress level was less because the teaching and coaching in inner city Chicago had few expectations. There was no football legacy at Manion High School in Chicago; but I created a monster with ever-increasing crowds, student body support, and Chicago media exploding with coverage for our high school championship 5A team. We loved it! Nobody knows and respects that in Colorado. Instead, I have received a startup venture (Colorado Sports Academy High School) with parents dreaming of Olympic gold. We have won two close football games by the seat of our pants. 

I arrived home and Sherry Tompkins (Janae’s mom) had dismissed and paid the nanny. Janae’s parents (Sherry and Herb Tompkins) have a house key. Sherry was helping Josh with his kindergarten homework of numbers, letters, and early spelling. I loved this scene. Sherry was cool; and after she made supper and settled the kids into bed with nighttime stories. Sherry proposed that I arrive on time and dress appropriately for her social Sunday afternoon in Greenfield Village. She admitted there would be eligible young attractive women who would fit what I needed. All Greenfield Village knows of my situation; and there are plenty of young women of means willing to step into Janae’s shoes. Sherry said she realized they would never be a biological mom; but it would be the very best thing for our family if I settled, married, and had a life-long partner. Sherry then discussed Missy Bradford, and knew she was “flirting” with me. I informed Sherry Tompkins that nothing has occurred and may never occur. Sherry then explained that it was important that my next partner or spouse be from the correct family. This would be an upgrade from Missy Bradford’s family roots. I was shocked, but under-reacted. Moving to Colorado I expected a little from the Tompkins as Janae’s parents with nearness to me regarding the “girl” thing. I never expected the immense pressure mounting on this formal Sunday afternoon greeting party where I am supposed to meet, request a date, and ultimately connect lifelong with an eligible mate in Greenfield Village. Sherry tucked the three grandkids into bed and left accomplishing her mission. I need a cold Coors beer. 

I awoke the next morning early and arrived at a thought of playing with nine men on the line offensively for the upcoming game. My offensive line is still virus ridden; and will not be playing on Friday night in Denver. I have received calls from Missy Bradford (the Denver Post reporter) asking questions about the team strength with the upcoming duel in Denver under the lights. I was reserved and felt that giving away any ammunition to the press and subsequently to the Denver reining champs of our league would be disaster. Our subs have begun to surface and play quite well. I am altering our attack with one tailback, the ends not so split, and the line double teaming everywhere they can for both passing and running. Some of the pass plays will have one eligible receiver downfield. The QB will have run-pass options continuously through the evening; and understands his role as a “gamer.” The assistant coaches have firmed the defense with only a couple starters potentially missing some or all the game. The replacement defensive subs are quite good and “game ready.” The team is hungry and wants to prove they belong. I am loving the attitude of this youthful team. The grades on our football team are superb excepting our great punter. The punter has been “talked to” by our assistant coaches and a tutor was readied. This has helped the punter’s grade situation immensely. All our footballers know how I feel about grades. There is no football without the best grades they can produce. I want 110% in the classroom and field. 

I ran early this morning – covering 7 miles in a little over an hour. I passed Spark’s (our cocker-spaniel) original home. I noticed the philanthropic owner Smitty working out in the backyard and he waved at me and came running. Smitty thanked me for our kid’s friendship and I thanked him for the puppy. We talked openly; and he admitted he was just coming around after a tumultuous relationship with his former wife. Smitty’s former wife suffered from addiction and refused treatment. She needed to be hospitalized and eventually placed in an institution with a diagnosis of bipolar schizophrenia that developed shortly after their three kids were born. Smitty was a highly successful IT engineer; and very intelligent. We both talked openly; and he said he would not be on the planet if he had not enlisted an on-line life coach. Smitty’s catharsis on life was compelling. Smitty moved on from a disastrous family situation. The entire neighborhood knew my situation; and I was a topic of discussion over the neighborhood fences. I admitted being ambivalent about relationships so early after Janae’s early death. I jogged home and got the kids ready for the nanny and school. Perhaps I do need a life coach to ease my transition as a widower. Smitty gave me the name of his life coach – whom he periodically reconnects. I will think on this one because we have got an upcoming big game in Denver this week. A life coach…hmmm…interesting. 

We prepared well with second string lineman and won the football game on a fumbled 2-point extra point attempt after the favored Denver school drove 80 yards in the last 3 minutes to get within a point of our school, Colorado Sports Academy. The game was crowded and I was quite happy with our team excepting the last drive because they kept converting 3rd and 4th downs on the last-minute offensive drive. I intended to stop this team with everything in our defensive playbook but we could not develop a plan of blitzing, zone defense by rushing three linemen (the rule minimum on scrimmage) with an 8-man zone. We lost outside contain on three occasions which resulted in first down with substantial gains. I was upset with myself and the fumble bailed our team out with a bad snap that we recovered on the one-yard line. I somewhat felt sorrow for the opposition because I have been on the other side when we call a play that works 99% in practice – yet game emotions enter just a simple snap or hand-off. Football is a funny sport because it excites us all with its pageantry, gladiator mentality, and the nuances of offense/defense/special teams. Football is such a big part of my life; but also highly interested in English/phonics/literature instruction – my true love. Eventually, I want to teach music part-time; after the kids are gone. Janae loved music – perhaps it is time for Josh to begin piano lessons. He has got a lot on his plate with the neighborhood soccer team, kindergarten all-day, and just playing with his friends on the block – like Smitty’s kids. 

Smitty’s catharsis on life with his on-line coach made me think I need to contact his life coach. The coach’s name is Sandy Swift. She is from Seattle; and runs a professional service for a reasonable price. Sandy is a trained psychologist who does not believe in psychiatric meds – barring severe mental disease. Her counseling redirects the mind into a positive frame – allowing difficult decisions to be straightforward and sensible. I believe I need that advice because I am confused regarding dating, in-laws at Greenfield Village in Denver, and my role as a coach and teacher at Colorado Sports Academy. The biggest part of me that needs help is my grief. I need to move on; but I still see Janae daily, talk to her while taking a shower, and occasionally cry. The kids still feel Mom’s returning; but eventually they will understand about breast cancer.

Missy Bradford called and wanted to know if I wanted to attend a block party in Castle Rock at one of the former Bronco’s home Sunday afternoon. I did not know what to say because that is a date – though informal. I told her I would get back to her asap because I need to check my kids schedules. I feel it is too early to date; but I like Missy Bradford. Once I plunge into a relationship, it is on a serious tract towards you know what (marriage). I will call Sandy Swift tomorrow and do a Skype life coach relationship. I just do not know about dating. 

On the very first life coach encounter I was quite pleased. Sandy Swift said I had a few issues to resolve. Grief is still highly present and can linger and destroy one’s life. The life-coach highly mentioned to essentially place Janae into a celebration of life context, be happy we had the time together, and move-on. I discussed the Missy Bradford date and block party. Sandy, the life coach, mentioned that if the setting is right for a relationship, then take it. The next relationship may be years – if ever. The relationship with Missy Bradford may be friends, girlfriends, or something more. Remember, she has issues of grief and moving on from her husband’s death. Missy may have issues with a relationship with a guy that has three young kids and her being a de-facto Mom. The on-line coach (Sandy Swift) was wonderful in helping me deal with my in-laws, Sherry and Herb Tompkins. Thus, I need to inform the Tompkins that despite me having a great time at the Sunday party last week, I had no immediate interest in any of the available single gals present. That my upset them, but it is also my life. I am not marrying Janae’s parents. I do appreciate their strong interest in being good grandparents. I feel the Tompkins pushing me into a relationship is their way of dealing with Janae’ death and moving on. I am more comfortable discussing this with them openly now. 

Our Saturday coaches meeting was superb. New plays, redesigns of the wishbone and pro-sets on offense were completed with more misdirect against advancing teams with real team speed. Colorado Sports Academy has an uphill fight against the football powerhouses; but we are holding our own on offense, defense, and special teams. The defensive coaches have added a new wrinkle with a free safety blitz on one side; while the corner blitzes on the other side. Our linebackers have been replaced with backup defensive backs for pass coverage on these special defensive schemes. We are at risk for runs; but when it is 2nd or 3rd and long, we are going with the opposite defensive back blitzes to confuse the offense. The opposition has seen film of us and already planned their playbook opposing our strengths when we ultimately meet and play. 

I am quite happy with the early parent-teacher conferences and how the parents have responded to the phonics, fundamental English, and literature presentations. I want my students reading and learning. Students are wanting to transfer into our classes; but I am full and stuffing the classroom makes life difficult for the rest of the students and myself. I am honored that I am in demand; and it makes me quite happy that the students are virtually all thinking college with humanity studies as part of their curriculum. Tucking in the kids with reading “A Cat in the Hat” for Josh, Jake, and Jayden resulted in all three falling asleep in their bunks. I love it! 

The kids all came down with red cheeks today; and all had runny nose, slight cough, low grade fever, and congestion. I obtained a pediatric appointment early and was not late for my English class. The pediatrician (Alison Maples DO) was compassionate, knowledgeable, and cute. I noticed from wall plaques that she obtained her medical school in Kirksville. Missouri; and residency at Iowa City. She just started with a small pediatric group and had very athletic pictures of her cycling, skiing, running, and swimming about her office. I asked her about the pictures and she said prior to residency (a killer), she was a gal jock. Now she just works out at Lifetime Fitness, skis, and cycles on weekends, and occasionally does the triathlon circuit. Dr. Maples reviewed our charts and mentioned under family history that since Janae died from early breast cancer, our kids may be at risk for cancer genes. In time, that will need to be evaluated with blood and genetic testing. Dr. Alison Maples then asked me how I was doing/coping with the loss of Mom. I retorted that I had misgivings about moving to Colorado; but I am intent on making it work. I noticed no wedding or engagement ring on her finger; and she smiled at me a ton. She diagnosed the kids with 5th disease with the slapped cheek appearance, gave me an education sheet, and will see all three kids in a week. Tylenol, liquids, and home school was prescribed.

As I was rescheduling with the young noisy front office scheduler, Harper Smith, she mentioned she was following our team (Colorado Sports Academy High School). Harper’s boyfriend had read my book on quarterbacking; and she loved the Broncos. And Harper mentioned with a smile that Dr. Maples liked me. I walked out with my three young guys wondering what all that meant. What is like? Like in the English language can be a noun, preposition, conjunction, adjective, or adverb -depending on how it is applied – meaning the context of the speech. Thus, being liked could mean similar characteristics, similar ways, reference, a meaningless filter, or to convey an attitude. Like could mean our family is normal, not unprofessional like many patients are, or fondness – similar to a girl liking or having a crush on a guy. Why did Harper Smith at the front office inform me of this so quickly. I now must return in a week to the same front office and physician who “likes” me. It is embarrassing! I can be cool; deal with this gorgeous professional; and get these kids through 5th disease. I am thinking this is how I met Janae – serendipity. Dr. Maples being seen at football practice like Janae? No way! Onto school.

We experienced an intense coach’s meeting today after practice. We have a couple linebackers with grade issues. Thus, we are bringing in their parents and discussing the situation. Both players need to advance and improve their grades; or, they are not playing or practicing football (the rule). I am insistent that all players obtain a minimum of a B average. We are undefeated entering our 4th game at home against a tough Colorado Springs opponent. Our opponent has a strong legacy of winning football, places a few players in all college divisions yearly, and has a stubborn head coach. I feel we are well prepared, in game shape and we are now ranked 7th in Class 5A within the state of Colorado. I could not be happier. We are favored in the Friday night contest; but I feel any wrong bounce of the football could lead to a close loss. All our team can do is play hard and strive to win the game. 

My life coach, Sandy Swift, was quite good and knowledgeable about my situation. I told her about our kids’ pediatrician. The life coach mentioned that relationships blossom unexpectedly; and can occur at any moment. She did mention the Berlin Wall code between doctors and patients; and if anything happened beyond friendship, that we would be required to find another kiddy doctor. I am perplexed by all of this; but feel perhaps I need to start dating. My life coach feels it is acceptable and a manner of dealing with grief, unhappiness, and a need to have relationships beyond acquaintances. This was a great session; and I feel I have a log laying on my brain removed. 

I saw Smitty down the block while jogging early today. We discussed the life coach and the pediatrician. Smitty’s advice was to take it slow, weave into a relationship, and let things naturally happen. Smitty asked if I had checked out the pediatrician on social media. I had not dug into that aspect of her life; and besides, all I know is that the front desk person liked football and said the pediatrician liked me. Smitty had already drawn up a Tik-Tok account of her; and she moved to Colorado from Des Moines after being dumped by a real estate guy. Smitty said, “There you go. She is available!” I am spell bound; and forgot that Missy Bradford wanted me to attend a former Bronco player’s house party Sunday afternoon. Smitty laughed as we discussed the situation – replying it is better to have two than zero. I am befuddled. I need to get breakfast going for the kids. 

We won the game Friday night on a late field goal kick that hit the upright and fell through. Our team was extraordinarily happy because we are undefeated at 4 games into the season and now ranked #3. The Denver Post with Missy Bradford covering us has highlighted our team players and coaching staff. The school (Colorado Sports Academy High School) has been highlighted as an academic yet sports school. They have placed me as a professor with rock hard English and Literature classes; and one who still teaches cursive and phonics. We have now had many more parents and students wanting to attend our school; and my classes are stuffed. Missy Bradford called about the former Denver Bronco player party she wanted me to attend. Missy’s coverage was so incredibly great that I said yes. I do not know if this is a date or a gathering? I will find out and just enjoy the day (tomorrow). Our coaches meeting went well; and our assistant coaches are on high ground with many wanting a state championship. I said one play at a time on special teams, offense, or defense. We worked on special cover 3 defensive zone defense on the blackboard. The division of 1/3 in the defensive backfield would depend on where the opposition receiver’s line up. We mimic man-to-man defense by lining up against the receivers when they come to the line of scrimmage. Suddenly, when cadence begins, we snap into zone coverage confusing the quarterback and receivers. Occasionally, we stay with man pass receiving defense creating more confusion. I love it! We discussed on offense getting our speed receivers the ball in the flats in space to overcome slower linebackers and defensive backs. Our snap counts were being anticipated by some defenses. We placed a color within the cadence to confuse the defense (it means nothing and our audibles remain the same). 

Herb and Sherry Tompkins came down to babysit for the kids while I was at the coaches’ meetings. Sherry again inquired about my love life and if I had any relationships. My life coach, Sandy Swift – Nurse Practitioner, advised me to confront the Tompkins on this issue, and allow them to understand that I need to live my personal life within myself (it is not public). Thus, I told Sherry and Herb Tompkins that I had a date tomorrow in Denver with Missy Bradford. They read her sports columns daily; and like the press coverage. The Tompkins neighborhood is quite excited about our team; as is Smitty and the neighborhood within our immediate housing area. I also told the Tompkins about Alison Maples DO pediatrician. That woke them up! Sherry just assumed I would be chasing the doctor! I informed her that the office secretary informed me that the pediatrician liked me as we were leaving. And I again informed Janae’s parents that could mean we were good patients comparably, we were friendly, she was getting paid for her services, or perhaps she really did like me as in wanting a relationship. That aroused the Tompkins; but I assured them that there is a Berlin Wall between doctor and patient. That is no different than myself knowing a wall exists between my students and staff peers and myself as a teacher. You do not go there. Sherry insisted that there was something there, and I need to follow up. It is undeniable that Sherry wants involvement in her grandkids potential next stepmom. At least I had the guts through my life coach to discuss openly what was happening to my personal life. I need to hit the bed after bedtime stories for Josh, Jake, and Jayden.