Goes Without Saying...

Saying "goodbye" is hard to do. It's difficult to find a way to say everything you need to say. I've never actually liked the word very much. It hardly does the task that it's appointed to do. But, it's better than saying nothing.

Since word of Coach's move started getting around, people have been saying their goodbyes. It means so much. I know that it's difficult for Bobcat fans to see him go to work for one of their most bitter rivals. I know most of them will never be able to pull for him there. That makes it all the more meaningful when someone takes the time to say "good bye" or "good luck" or "we will miss you".

Coach went to tell the team he was leaving. He had dreaded that moment for days. He waited to confirm any rumors about the move until he could tell the guys face-to-face. He wanted them to hear it from him. He wanted to try and explain this tough decision to them. He wanted to say goodbye. It was a difficult thing for him to do.

It got me thinking about how often we leave things unsaid. One of the first messages I got regarding the new job said, "...it goes without saying that we will really miss him at Woodland" and it might very well go without saying. But it shouldn't. I appreciated that message. Its hard to make a decision that you know many people won't like. She didn't have to send that message, but she did. You should never pass up an opportunity to let someone know what they mean to you, that you appreciate them. Even when you aren't quiet sure how to say it.

Speaking of how to say it, we've already had some good ones. Here are just a few:

"I'm happy if you're happy. I hate it for the kids. You are a coach that cares for the kids."

"Praying all goes well for him...and you."

"Our loss is their gain..."

"Coach will surely be missed by many but I wish you all God's blessing, much support and love during this new chapter! Congrats!"

"It's a time to motivate new players and students. They will no doubt be proud to have you! GO BULLDOGS!"

"Even if the world is burning, I'm still a Coach Bailey fan."

"At least get a black shirt so I don't have to look at you in that dang purple!"

"Best of luck with the change. You will do an awesome job in your new Purple and Gold! I would wear Crimson to support you!"

"You helped make (my son)the man he is today and I mean that. Go to Ranburne and make more (like my son) because it will make this world a better place."


I've said it many times already. Leaving is hard. Saying goodbye is impossible. This community, these people, those kids...they have meant the world to us. And only those of us who have been blessed enough to have been a part of it can truly understand what an amazing community it is. The way everyone rallies around and supports the students, coaches, and the school is unrivaled.

But, as Bella Swan pointed out, "When life offers you a dream so far beyond any of your expectations, it’s not reasonable to grieve when it comes to an end." Or, if you prefer, Dr. Suess's "Don't cry because it's over; smile because it happened." So, I'll try not to be sad. But, I cannot go without saying...

Thank you to those of you who have offered your congratulations, love, and support in this new phase of our lives. It says a lot about you as a person and means so much to us. Thank you, Woodland. For the memories, the lessons learned, the love, the support, the commitment to the kids, for letting us be part of your kids' lives.... Thanks for allowing us to be a part of it all.