Dear Dave,
I’m really amazed that you have been coaching St. Thomas basketball for 30 years. Tremendous milestone! I’m extremely lucky and fortunate to have been taught the fundamentals of the game by one of the best. I have had many coaches and you are definitely one of the greatest. The techniques you taught; play every play 100%, cover your man like a blanket, court vision and mental toughness. I feel this was the foundation for me to play in High School, then switched the game (Lacrosse) achieve HS All- American and propel me to College and play in the NCAA’s Division 1 levels, I thank you. Your passion is contagious and words are genuine.
I can remember like yesterday the practices, games and tournaments. The full court presses, in bounds plays and running of offenses. Passing the ball to downtown or hitting killer in the middle. “Swing it to Kelley”, you would say from the sidelines. You picked me up one time in the blue Nissan 280z after a Pop Warner football game and we went off to a tournament at the Shehan Center. Some great memories,,,
One story has resonated with me over the years and is a true classic:
It’s an away game at the Shehan Center. In the locker room you mention to me that the referees might stop the game and give out an award, so I’m like OK, thanks for the heads up. Now, the teams are out on their respective benches, warms ups are done and the tipoff is near. The two head coaches are at half court with the referees. I notice that the refs and the Shehan head coach are doing much of the talking and they are have a conversation about how they are going to stop the game when Chris Smith scores his 10,000 career point. They’ll award him with a golden basketball, have the Connecticut take a few photo’s, etc.
After listening to what these three individuals had to say you answer; “What if he doesn’t?” I can still picture the reactions on the faces of the three,,, I know you had them thinking,,, What if…. Dave this was priceless!
Sully,
You have not only been a coach but a friend and family friend. My wife Jennifer and I are glad you and Beth made our Wedding day celebration. I wish you and yours the very best!
“Preparation breeds confidence, Confidence wins Games…” Dave Sullivan.
Best Regards,
Jim Bernstein
