Smiles lit the faces of the audience at Wednesday evening’s Valparaiso School Board meeting as new Varsity boys’ basketball coach Matt Thomas accepted the position.
Introduced by Assistant to the Superintendent Jim Doane, Thomas’ qualifications and personality quickly came shining through.
“He’s one of the finest English teachers, and one of the finest young coaches,” Doane said. “We can expect great things out of coach Thomas.”
Thomas, sitting with his family, handed his sleeping son to his wife so that he could stand to say a few words.
“This is a humbling experience,” Thomas said. “I’m so used to being around amazing people, and I would really like to thank my wife and my family for supporting me.”
Thomas went on to thank many family members and mentors who encouraged him along the way, and enabled him to strive to achieve.
Thomas grew up in Valparaiso, and played basketball for Valparaiso High School during his youth. He credits much of his love of the game to coaches he had early on in his childhood as well as many excellent coaches during his time at Valpo. He is regarded as a favorite teacher among students at the high school, and his enthusiasm and dedication to education never fails.
“I work really hard,” Thomas said. “Both in the classroom and on the court.”
An English teacher at Valparaiso High School, Thomas began teaching at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, before making the leap to the high school level. He has coached freshman boys’ basketball, and worked with the coaches at VHS to help take the Vikings to victory.
“The coaches at VHS, they’re not just great coaches,” Thomas said. “They’re great friends.”
Throughout his speech, Thomas demonstrated his humility and amiability. He tries to live his life with enthusiasm.
“There are no ordinary moments in life as long as you have enthusiasm,” Thomas said.
Thomas ended his speech quoting the coach of the Miami Heat: “I don’t motivate my players; my players motivate me.”