Luke and Isaiah's team headed to Dallas for an end-of-season tournament. The girls, dog, and I decided to stay home. Covid is still making life extra challenging, and we decided to limit exposure. The team had a good time - one awesome game, with a buzzer beater in overtime! They lost the other games, in part because of a particularly short team this year. At 5'8", Isaiah was the tallest.
It was definitely the end of an era. It's the end of Middle School basketball for Isaiah, and the end of Luke coaching his team. I don't know if you could find a more dedicated and thoughtful volunteer coach than Coach Tallon. He has spent so much time over the last 3 years in particular, trying to coach well and really help each player improve, while still winning as often as possible. He is gentle and encouraging, but firm and loud when he needs to be. He works with the team to learn plays and understand the game. He is in constant communication with the players in play - guiding, directing, encouraging, correcting. He never belittles, He never yells. He expects players to listen and do their best. He includes everyone and invites Isaiah's observations an input on the many car rides to and from practice and games. He does not think he's the best coach, and he feels his expertise peters out after MS ball, but we sure are proud of and thankful for Coach Tallon. I have had many parents tell me how thankful they are for the time their sons have spent under Luke's coaching. Next year... MS Girls!!
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