Hamilton Southeastern athletic director Jim Self posted the following message on the HSE Royals athletic website and also on his Facebook page Friday. The Reporter says thank you to Mr. Self for letting us publish his message in today’s edition.
I am so thankful to be the athletic director at Hamilton Southeastern High School. For the last 20 years I have had the opportunity to combine two of my greatest passions…Kids and Athletics. What a blessing! Yesterday was a difficult day, while I know the decision to cancel school and spring sports was the right decision, it does not make it any easier. I am disappointed for our seniors, their families, our coaches and all of Royal Nation. Spring sports are probably the busiest time of the year with baseball, golf, lacrosse, softball, tennis, track and Unified track. The campus is alive in the spring, with no less than 2-3 events going on each night. I know in the past I would complain to my wife or Mrs. Clingman about how busy we are. I am not sure I will ever complain again about being busy!
Over the last two days we have conducted coaching interviews using Zoom. One of the questions that I asked was – why do you coach? Simple question but one that I think I should have to answer in this difficult time. Why am I an athletic director? I believe with all my heart in the value of education-based athletics and the life lessons that can be taught through participation in high school sports. I love that IHSAA Commissioner Bobby Cox always refers to high school sports as education-based athletics. I love to watch our athletes participate and compete, I love to watch athletes grow through wins and losses. I love to watch athletes reach their goals. I love to watch our school and community rally behind the Royals. But most of all, I love to watch our coaches impact lives.
I believe that a coach is one of the most powerful terms in the English language. Besides Mom, Dad, Grandma and Grandpa, I strongly believe that a Coach and a Teacher can have the most influence on a young person’s life. At Hamilton Southeastern we are blessed to have great coaches who make a positive impact on our athletes. They understand that relationships are more important than wins and losses. They use high school athletics as a tool to help young people reach their potential.
A wise OLD coach (Rob Cutter) used to tell his teams and his staff…Two things you can control every day, your attitude and your effort. I am writing this today because I call tell you that my attitude yesterday afternoon was not very good. Today, I woke up and thought like I have for the last 20 years. It is a Great Day to be a Royal! Yes, this spring is going to be different but I am going to try my best to find the blessing each day.
Coaches – My challenge is simple, keep impacting lives! Athletes – Keep pursuing your dreams!
One of my favorite quotes is from Maya Angelou, I read this at Carrie Colglazier’s funeral in 2003 in the Leonard Auditorium and I hope it provides you some clarity and comfort.
“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead pursue the things you love doing and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.”
Royals – I miss you!
Stay Safe and Stay Positive!
Jim Self, Athletic Director
Hamilton Southeastern High School