Coach Stevie Phillips honored by athletes

JOHNSONVILLE - Johnsonville High School Principal Stevie Phillips, better known as Coach, planned a special night to honor members of his track teams from 1991 through 2008, not realizing that behind the scenes, these champions planned to honor him as well.
The evening began with a banquet during track recognition at the school’s home coming game. At half time, the teammates of this year’s successful girl’s championship team received their 2008 rings. It was also at this time that Casey Wall read a proclamation celebrating Coach Phillips’ success and presented him a gift, something he could share with his family.
Tonight we celebrate the accomplishments of current and past track teams. As individuals and as a team, we have accomplished many goals set before us. The Johnsonville track team would like to thank all of you who have come out to watch our meets or just given a word of encouragement going down the hallways. Without the dedication and determination of Coach Phillips, we would not be here tonight.
First and foremost, we thank God for giving us the ability to run, jump, and throw, but if it had not been for you, we would not have known how to use the talents in the correct way. You have taught us how to use our talents and abilities not only on the track, but also throughout life. In 1985, when you were given the assignment of becoming the track coach, you never knew that 23 years down the road, you would have 13 championships to represent your hard work and dedication. You have known most of us since we were in 5th grade running around in your PE class. To your advantage, you were able to see our abilities and to encourage us to use them to better ourselves. No matter how we came to be a part of the track family, we have all left with valuable experiences that will continue to help throughout life. We will always remember the famous quote of “such it up” to carry us through life’s hurdles.
One parent’s comparisons to The Wizard of Oz truly reflects how you have helped shape and mold us into the women and men we are today. Like the lion, you gave us the courage to go out and achieve goals that we had never dreamed of accomplishing. Like the scarecrow, you gave us the brains to map out our plan for success. And like the Tin Man, you gave us the heart to love our team and know how to be a family.
We also want to take this time to thank your family for sacrificing their time with you. During the school years, we were too young to realize how valuable family time was. Now that most of us have a family of our own we can look back and appreciate the time that your family allowed us to have.
Isaiah 60:17 states, “Instead of bronze I will bring gold, Instead of iron I will being silver, Instead of wood, bronze, and instead of stone, iron…”
Every one of us on the field can relate to this scripture. Many of us have achieved the individual accomplishments of receiving a bronze or silver medal, but we have all had the honor of receiving a GOLD medal as representation of the JOHNSONVILLE FLASHES as STATE CHAMPIONS.
On behalf of all of the teams represented here tonight, we have a gift certificate of $100 for you and your family to enjoy a nice meal together at Miyabi’s.