Coach Rob Davis
Nominated - Volunteer Award

Dear Coach Guy,

Please accept my sincere apology for not communicating with you sooner. I want you to know that I am flattered and deeply honored that you would think of nominating me for any award. It is truly humbling to be appreciated by a fellow Coach. Just to know that you took the time out of your day just to think of me brings me an inner joy and comfort, 

The real question that I want to discuss is; why haven't I responded? My answer may seem complex, but to me it's quite simple. Maybe I'm not that guy. When you asked me to write a Bio, I didn't feel as qualified. You see, I don't belong to any Civic organizations. I don't have any partnerships with any grass-root movements. I'm not a member nor do I run any charitable groups. I'm just a guy that blows a whistle, I Coach. I try to set up safe atmospheres for young people to express themselves physically.

I truly enjoy the interaction and development of young people, and I'll do whatever it takes to help make it a smooth, educational and memorable process. This is why I don't mind washing uniforms or cleaning the locker room. I've bought and cooked meals for them. I've given rides and bought mouth pieces. I will do whatever it takes to keep things organized and moving forward in a positive direction. I even cooked and fed the team during the tough period of Covid.

I've been associated with Woodrow Wilson now Eastside High for many years. I would say close to thirty or at least the better part of twenty-five years as I did have involvement with different High Schools and even College. 

Years ago, I had my own youth track team "RUN CAMDEN RUN TRACK CLUB". When we needed a place to practice, one of my old dean of students Mrs. Patrica Cook was the Wilson principal. She welcomed my program with open arms and we used the school facilities without hesitation. During the season, I sold water ice and cold drinks to the football team and summer basketball leagues to raise funds. This is where I met and conversed with everyday Coach Big Bill Smothers. I was to join him as a volunteer assistant in basketball the next season but unfortunately Coach Smothers passed away. He was also one of my best customers. He used to buy a cold water from me almost everyday. I then met the new Coach Lenny Carmichael. He took me on his staff and the rest is history. I'm still here. I've been blessed to do many things for the schools. 
I even gave haircuts and showed young men how to tie a dress tie. I've been here so long I know I've coached sons of former players but I believe I'm up to grandchildren, all this as a volunteer. It truly is a blessing and pleasure. As you know I went back to school to qualify for a paid position. It was never about the money. I've spent thousands over the years on this 
program and I'd do it again. However it did occur to me that I was doing more work and seemingly had more involvement then folks that were receiving checks. The schooling really helped me recover from the grief of losing my son along with being with the team. On a side note, my father passed away while we were scrimmaging St. Aug's a few years ago. One of 
the coaches rushed me back to town as soon as I got the call. I have a deep personal relationship with the school, the administrators and the students. I've seen folks come and go. Still the kids, young and old still come to me to chat, shake hands, hug and say "hi". Some are shocked or impressed that I'm still here, "kicking and screaming".

I hope this makes sense to you. It's awesome to be recognized but I know GOD sees me and I realize that I'm truly blessed.