HODGDON, Maine — Sarah Williams, a Hodgdon first-grade teacher and high school softball coach, continues to be amazed by the support she has received from the local community as part of U.S. Cellular’s “Most Valuable Coach” campaign.
Williams, who on Oct. 11 was announced as a top-15 finalist for the campaign, was in third place in the voting as of Thursday morning. She is the only remaining finalist from Maine and is one of just two women in the top 15.
Representatives from U.S. Cellular were at Hodgdon Middle-High School on Monday to present Williams with a $5,000 check for the school during a pep rally.
“We are very glad to have U.S. Cellular here today way up here in northern Maine,” SAD 70 Superintendent Scott Richardson said. “I hope you enjoy your visit here, and sorry if it is a little cold.”
Kelsey Saunders, tour manager for U.S. Cellular, gave a brief explanation of how the “Most Valuable Coach” program works.
“The U.S. Cellular ‘Most Valuable Coach’ program highlights and recognizes head and assistant coaches who have made a profound impact on an individual, school and their community, by connecting with the good in all of us,” Saunders said.
Last year, Luis Ayala of Dover-Foxcroft won the national award and a $50,000 check that was to aid sports programs at Foxcroft Academy and local schools.
Saunders explained there were thousands of coaches nominated across the country. The top 50 were selected and put out for public vote.
“This is indeed an auspicious celebration,” Hodgdon Principal Steve Fitzpatrick said. “We celebrate for many reasons, but for me the most important reason is to accent the role of coach and teacher within our community. When I think about the essence of outstanding coaches, I break it down to the fact that a great coach is able to inspire greatness in each of us. In the case of coach Williams, it is her actions of kindness, fairness and a great heart that inspire her charges to be all they can be.”
Kora Lambert, one of the softball players who has been with the coach since middle school, said she looked up to coach Williams as more than just a coaching figure.
“Coach is an incredible softball coach and a real role model for all of us,” Lambert said. “She not only taught me about the game, she has taught me about life. She has always tried to instill a sense of leadership in all of us.”
Allie Winship, one of Williams softball players, was the student who nominated her for this award. Winship became emotional when expressing her feeling toward her coach.
“Coach Williams has not only taught me how to be a strong player, but to be a person who brings positivity to her community and the people around them,” Winship said. “Coach taught us to love everyone, even with their flaws, and to never give up, even when the going gets tough.”
Williams said the experience has been one of the more humbling moments in her life.
“You have made me feel truly loved and supported,” Williams said of the community support she has received. “Thank you for recognizing how important our students and school are, and how deserving they are.”
“I am no more than a small example of how we live life here in Aroostook County,” she continued. “All of the character traits and leadership qualities I have been recognized for throughout this contest are the traits of each and every coach here at SAD 70. This is a Hodgdon way of life, and I am happy to represent it.”
Stacey York, local marketing and brand activity manager, presented Williams with a new Samsung Note 9S tablet at the conclusion of the ceremony.
The top three coaches in the Most Valuable Coach contest will receive a donation of $50,000, $20,000 and $10,000, respectively, for their schools. The winners will be announced Nov. 20.
The 15 finalists are listed on TheMostValuableCoach.com, and the public can vote daily through Nov. 13.
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