Here is a coach and a mentor who makes a difference in the lives of kids. Unassuming, seldom raising his voice but always supportive and positive toward his teams, Schmipf has been a very positive influence in my high school seniors' life.

Although my son was injured at the start of the season and missed the end due to a kidney stone followed by an ATV accident where he broke his collarbone, he always felt part of this team even when he wasn't running or even practicing. He got constant support and was always, always made to feel part of the team.

Part of the credit for that also goes to the members of the team who were positive, enthusiastic and one hundred percent supportive to one another through heat, rain and cold.

Cross Country is not an easy sport nor is it really a team sport. Runners are battling against themselves to beat their own times. It is a grueling, long trail and a sport, I admit, I never found interesting to watch--at least not until my own kid took part in it.

You don't get to see the runners very much. Sometimes only 2 or 3 passes and that is if you move around the course. There is no official cheer block and certainly never any cheerleaders. Very few spectators come to these sports events--only parents who cheer for each team member as if they are their own child.

My son started out running cross country to train for another sport and ended up considering it his favorite sport. I credit that to the coach of this team--Mike Schimpf.

My son has been involved in sports since he was four-years old. Some of it positive and some negative. But never has his attitude been better or his sense of camaraderie and team support better than when he is with group of athletes and this coach.

Thank you Mr. Schimpf for your time, talent, support and influence.