EDUCATION NOTES

Welcoming differences, challenges



Stephanie Foerster is coach of the Port Aransas High School Lady Marlins basketball team.

Stephanie Foerster is coach of the Port Aransas High School Lady Marlins basketball team.

I would first like to thank everyone for the kind words and generous welcome I have received since I have entered your community and school. I have enjoyed getting to know many of you and your families, and look forward to meeting many more.

Moving is always difficult, but it helped to learn I have been blessed with a wonderful group of wellrounded young ladies who represent our basketball program. Many of these girls have been participating in cross-country, while others are coming in the morning and afternoon for open gym and to use the weight room. I was also pleased to see four of our young ladies recently inducted into the National Honor Society and many others on the honor roll for the first six weeks. I cannot wait to see this same excellence spill over onto the court.

As our first practice approaches and we start the new season, we have begun to talk to the girls about “being all here.” We mean this not only in the form of physical attendance, but rather in body, mind and heart.

First, with the body, we are asking our athletes to come to practice daily, willing to push themselves to and even past their limits. How many of us show up daily and simply go through the motions? Why do we become content with the same routine?

Next, we ask that they come with open minds ready to listen, learn and think. Basketball is a game of skill, but it is also one in which the mind becomes part of the competition. The constant decision-making and strategic changes make for an amazing challenge for the mind.

Finally, we ask them to come with their hearts. This expectation means competing passionately in all aspects of our game. They should have a true caring for their teammates, coaches, managers, fans and our program. If our hearts are in it, we are on the right path.

Since my move back south, parents, friends, former players and other community members often approach me. They all have the same question, “So how do you like it?” After a quick smile, my answer is usually the same. “I love it. It is very different, but I love it.”

I think the many differences of Port Aransas are what attract people to come here. The outpouring of community support is rare in other places and is one of my favorite “differences” about Port Aransas.

So with these differences, I would ask you now to challenge yourself. Challenge your athlete, your student, and each other to be different…to be all here.

Go Lady Marlins!

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