When asked why she coaches, Erin stated “I think about it … high school coach … position of power and influence .. .it seemed like a good fit. Me, loaded with all that wisdom; them, a captive audience of young naive minds just waiting to be molded (evil laugh).” Erin has always loved sports and had such positive experiences with volleyball on post secondary teams that she felt she would love to share that experience.
When describing her secret to successful coaching, Erin said, “Red wine, Birkenstocks and socks, and having the good luck to find the most incredible athletes in my gym! That, and an overly developed competitive nature.” She believes that learning to be a team player is a virtue that umbrellas and leads to the acquisition of so many other values. Specifically, teaching student athletes how to get along with others, to properly communicate, to respect and accept diversity. To teach them to have the confidence to meet challenges and to be determined in problem solving and help student athletes to grow an understanding that sometimes there are things that are more important than self; that giving and helping others succeed makes us all better.
Reflecting on her fondest memories, Erin stated, “I will remember all the winning! This is what we won: a quiet little gal getting her first big kill, satisfaction of completing a drill correctly for the first time, receiving sportsmanship awards, life-long friendships formed, outrageous fundraising activities, we learned so very many things, acquired so many skills, a dig so incredibly amazing they are still raving about it today, the discipline and the Royals pride, taking home a medal, always having the neatest team bench, the zany madcap fun of team building, playing the best we ever could as a team, appreciating the quirky characters, being thanked after every practice, working together to overcome adversity, and all the smiles”.
During her time coaching, Erin hopes to have shared her passion: the love of sport and the joy of being physically active. She wishes everyone could feel the euphoria of corning together in the middle of a court, embracing in excitement knowing they just reached a goal and accomplished something great together as a team. She also hopes to have shared a few good laughs.
Through ASAA, Erin feels she has been able to grow as a coach and as a person. She is extremely grateful to Scott, Myles and “their cronies” who put forth her nomination. She feels blessed to have a husband and family who not only supported her, but understood the value of what she was doing and were a part of her journey every step. Thank you Royals, you have made it all worthwhile.
https://youtu.be/WAPzWcG9eAY