A Coach's Impact
Bethany, W. Va. – Coaches impact players beyond their athletic careers. Some coaches have such an impact that their athletes go on to become coaches themselves. Head baseball coach Justin Thomas has experienced this first hand. Tommy Williams played for Coach Thomas at Penn State Greater Allegheny and is currently in his first year as a graduate assistant at Bethany.
"While in college I had some great coaches who served as fantastic role models such as Jim Chester (Gardner Webb University), Joe Ranalli (Bethel Park HS), Eric Kuczma (Formerly Penn State Greater Allegheny), and of course Coach Thomas," said Williams. "I know personally how much those four individuals have impacted my life not only as a player but more importantly as a person."
Coach Williams comes to Bethany after coaching at Penn State Greater Allegheny, and most recently Chatham University. In addition to coaching at the collegiate level, Williams also coaches for Team All American located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
He knew that the last time he stepped off the field as a senior that it wasn't the last time he would be involved in baseball.
"There was something left in my heart that still felt unfulfilled and coaching was the only way I could fill that void," stated Williams.
Coach Thomas was not surprised that Coach Williams got into coaching. He knew that he wanted to have Coach Williams by his side in the dugout this season.
"I know he loves the game and I know he has the intelligence to coach and teach," expressed Coach Thomas. "What set Tommy apart as a player was his fundamentals. He was as fundamentally sound as anyone I had ever seen. He has a very high baseball IQ which is expected from a good shortstop. Those skills he had as an athlete will transpire for him to be a great coach."
Coach Williams had so much respect for Coach Thomas when he played for him. He remembered how much Coach Thomas made himself available to help his athletes whenever they needed something, whether it was to throw extra batting practice or to help someone who was struggling. He admired how much Coach Thomas cared about his players.
"I remember how much energy and knowledge JT brought to our team as a coach, and it has always been something that I admired and respected him for," expressed Coach Williams.
Their friendship has helped them on the field. The players see their communication and trust in each other which translates to their players doing the same thing. Their friendship has also helped them be on the same page and allows them to bring a contagious energy to their athletes.
Both coaches complement each other as a staff. Coach Thomas has a vast pitching background whereas Coach Williams is an infield guy but their philosophies and strategies are similar. They strongly believe in the process necessary to build a consistent championship caliber atmosphere.
During their time coaching together they have learned a lot from each other.
"I have learned how important it is to set expectations and goals for your players" stated Coach Williams. "Most importantly I've learned how important it is to build a program where trust is at the center. Coaches have to be able to trust your players and players have to be able to trust their coaches."
"Tommy has taught me to work smarter, not harder and to be efficient with your work" said Coach Thomas. "You have to prepare yourself for as many scenarios as possible and to always have a game plan."
The collaboration of what could have been a great season for the Bison was cut short due to the suspension of spring sports. The Bison started off the season a little slow, but picked up three straight wins to finish 7-5-1. They look to continue to grow heading into next season with the goal of making and winning a championship together.
