To: Coaches
From: Spencer Hoffman
Re: Coaches Club
Date: May 15, 2000


This Spring I had an incident happen to our program that I can honestly say I never imagined. I spend a lot of time thinking basketball and about my program but I never thought a tragedy of this magnitude could happen. We were playing an AAU scrimmage in April. It was a typical scrimmage. As usual I was wearing two hats. I had to officiate and coach this particular scrimmage. I was standing at half court probably 6 feet out on the floor and as one of my players was making the transition from one end of the court to the other she raised her hand. This is an indication she wanted a sub. The whistle blew and I subbed for her. She came off the floor and sat behind me to the left. After the free throws were shot. I turned to address a situation that had occurred on the floor she was involved with and as I did she stood up. As I focused my attention on her it looked as if she were going to faint. I reached out and put my arms under hers and she collapsed. She died in that very place.

her name was Cynkenya Diane Cole. She was 15 years old. She was freshman class president, Student Council member, Honor student, and a true Christian. In a matter of moments we lost one of the most vibrant, hard working, energetic young ladies that has been a part of our program. The doctors said it was a heart problem that could not have been diagnosed.

has it ever crossed your mind as a coach that you could lose one of your players that quickly. I had never given it a thought. Things like that don't happen to me an you. That's what I thought. Well, I want to take this opportunity to remind you how special the kids you have are. Yes, I know they are not all straight A students, or that they may be late for practice occasionally, or their crossover may not be as low as it needs to be but they are the players you love anyway. Remind yourself of the good things they do. Remind yourself of the good things they say. Remember the look in their eye that tells you they just want your approval. We all love our players. People around us don't realize the relationship we as coaches develop with our players but they shouldn't. It's special. Take the time and tell your players you love them. There are many ways to do it but just make sure they know. Make sure it is part of your program. Your kids knowing you love them is as important as any offensive skill you will ever teach them. We are lucky to have the opportunity to build relationships and help develop young people. What profession is more important. Take time to evaluate your program and see if it includes a team building time. a spiritual aspect, or activities that let the kids know that your ability as a player does not determine how much I care about you.

Northern State Wolves Basketball