It seems like yesterday that we met in front of Osborne Hill school for our first practice. I was new to St. Thomas and had never played organized basketball before, so I was pretty nervous. Being the first one to arrive, you greeted me with a smile and asked me if everyone else was as tall as I was! Even as an eleven year old kid, you know when someone special has entered your life.
What followed were three fantastic years under the tutelage of Sully. I can never remember you raising your voice, yet you commanded our complete respect. You showed such an interest in us as young men, and your passion for the game was contagious. You were a skilled teacher and truly gifted as a master motivator....I have never, ever been so determined to win at anything in my life as I was during the St. Mary's game in eighth grade!
Thirty years later, I am honored to be writing this to you and so thankful to you for being my coach, mentor and friend. I am sure that you did not set out to create a legacy, but that is what you have done. You are our John Wooden, a coach for life.
Congratulations Coach!!
Sean
