To the Editor:

This past weekend I went to a gathering, a celebration, for Bill Lewis hosted by his former student/athletes. They came from all over the United States: California, Indiana, and Florida to name a few.

They came to honor a man who was more than a coach. While teaching physical skills he taught life-long lessons. Being on the track & field team was more than being on a team; it was truly an extension of the school day. Lewis instilled a work ethic that encouraged every individual to become all that they were capable of becoming.

Lewis kept record of everyone’s personal best efforts then rewarded them with praise and encouragement, no matter if a scoring athlete or not. He taught leadership by having seniors act as student captains in all the events. These seniors became role models that the younger athletes could look up to as examples.

There already have been a number of letters written about him and many of the events that have impacted the lives of his former student/athletes. These examples are much too numerous to describe in a simple letter.

I am writing to encourage the Potsdam Central School Board of Education to pass a proposal to name the track after Mr. Lewis. There could not be a more deserving person.

David Wilson

Potsdam Central School Class of 1973