Coaches, athletic directors, teachers and other district staff who help make the Langley School District's athletic programs run smoothly and successfully were in the winner's circle Friday at the annual District Athletics Evening.
The event, held at the Langley Events Centre, served as an almost-year-end celebration of all that District teams and athletes have accomplished this year on the field, court, pitch, track, ice and in the pool.
Emceed by Langley Secondary vice-principal Greg Kilvert and Brookswood Secondary principal Lisa Ellis, the event began with remarks from assistant superintendents Marcello Moino and Lisa Lainchbury, with the latter taking a moment to recognize all the first-year coaches who gave their skills, time and energy to teams across the District. Deputy Superintendent Woody Bradford also spoke, thanking all the athletic directors for leading the way, en route to another successful school year - one that resulted in dozens of championship banners for schools at all levels.
Service awards were handed out next, with 10-year coaches honoured: Dan Allingham (basketball, cross-country, golf); Chris Bertoia (basketball, track and field); Aimee Corrigan (cross-country, track and field); Alfonso Ocampo (basketball) and Dave Sheppard (basketball, rugby, soccer, ultimate).
Longtime Walnut Grove Secondary coach Gary Lutes (basketball, cross-country, track and field, volleyball) was also recognized for 30 years of coaching.
This year's Jim Ehman Memorial Difference Maker Award went to Harry Frank, a longtime coach at both Betty Gilbert Middle School and Aldergrove Community Secondary.
The Difference Maker Award is handed out to "someone who has exemplified the Langley School District's core values in integrity, courage, community and excellence throughout their coaching career," as well as to someone to has "made a significant difference in the lives of students, staff and the school community."
In speeches as well as in a tribute video, Frank was good naturedly chided for telling the same stories over and over again - often about his early days growing up in Windsor, Ont. - but more than anything, he was recognized for an unwavering commitment to his players and District students, always giving his time by being willing to open the gym early or stay late so students could work on their skills or simply enjoy a pickup basketball game.
The evening wrapped up with closing remarks from superintendent Mal Gill, but not before another tribute to a longtime District coach - D.W. Poppy Secondary's Greg Leino, who this school year surpassed the 50-year coaching mark.
Leino was introduced by D.W. Poppy principal Jono Harris - who was a former student of Leino's. In addition to Harris thanking Leino for helping guide him as a young student and again as an adult, there were also video tributes from former players, including Jon Fast and John Hantke, both of whom are now teachers and administrators in the District.
