Gene Lewis

Sports quickly became a central part of my childhood, shaping my character and teaching me valuable life lessons. The thrill of competition and the camaraderie with teammates made every practice and game memorable and fueled my passion for athletics.

Playing catch with my dad was the only “sport” I knew until 10 years old when my parents took me to Little League tryouts. Somehow, I was placed on a Major team which, although a surprise to my parents and me, ignited my love of baseball.

Next, I tried Pop Warner football. The helmet hurt my head, but I “toughened up” and tolerated it to play and found my second sport.

YMCA basketball came next and was even more fun. Moving into high school sports at Jefferson, a school with such a sports history and reputation, was like a dream.  I remember the classrooms too, but, my heart was on the court and the fields.

The coaches were my role models. Not only did they teach us athletic skills like running, throwing, catching, shooting, hitting, blocking, batting, sliding etc., they also demonstrated being a good team player and human being. They emphasized what I heard at home.  Those lessons include: to show respect to your teammates and your opponents, be responsible, keep your commitments, be kind and fair to others and always to give your best.  All are life skills worth learning.

I have had the opportunity to participate with sports teams as an adult which has expanded my circle of friends and been a lot of fun. Also, to coach youth including my daughter and my son.  I am proud of the good human beings my kids and their teammates have become and hope I have given them some of what I was so fortunate to have received.  

Thank you to my role models for their influence from youth to varsity: Mom and Dad, Ken Lasalle, Louie Langdelle, Cole Gardner, Bud Chase, Jess Edwards, Pat Clock, Gary Seaney, Bob Hull, John Neeley, Jack Riley & Andy Pienovi.

‍