NHSACA Executive Board Monthly May Newsletter

By Dan Mitchell NHSACA President

At the time when I was writing my May newsletter for the National High
School Athletic Coaches Association, I received the news that my father
passed away. So many memories have been running through my mind that
it was hard to type through the tears.

I find comfort in knowing that my father is now in a good place, free from
pain and illness. A few weeks ago, when he was in the hospital, I had a
wonderful time sitting with him, talking about old memories and how much
things have changed in town.

When it came time to leave, I said goodbye and told him that I loved him. I
didn’t know it would be the last time I would speak to him, but I am so
grateful I had the chance to say "I love you" out loud — and that he heard
me and said he loved me too. That moment is something I will forever
cherish, and it is constantly on my mind.

These memories got me thinking about how much my father meant to me,
and so I wrote this tribute for him:

"My Father's Apprentice"
The person who had the most influence on me was my life coach, my
mentor, my biggest fan, my hero — my father.

I loved being my father’s apprentice. I soaked up everything I could — his
skills, his personality, his outlook on life, his way with people, his attitude,
his kindness, and his deep care for everyone he met. These qualities didn’t
just brush off on me; they became a part of who I am. They've carried me
through my life as a person, a husband, a father, a teacher, and a coach.
I was Dad’s little farmhand, always right there by his side. I was his gopher
on scab jobs, running to grab whatever tool or part he needed. I was his
construction intern through high school and college, sweating alongside
him, learning lessons that went far beyond nails and boards.
He didn’t just teach me how to work hard — he taught me to be patient, to
take pride in doing things the right way, and to always treat people with
respect and care.

I studied my father — not just the way he worked, but the way he lived. I
watched how he treated people, how he stayed calm under pressure, how
he gave respect freely and expected nothing in return.
Those lessons, taught not with words but with love and a steady hand,
shaped the man I am proud to be today.
Looking back now, I realize that the greatest thing my father ever built
wasn’t something you could see or touch — it was the man he raised me to
be.

And every day, I hope I’m honoring him by passing on those same lessons,
that same love, to the people around me.
"He was the foundation beneath my feet, the compass that still guides
my steps — and he always will be."

As coaches, we are fortunate to have people in our lives whom we cherish
deeply, whether they are our family members, fellow coaches, co-workers,
friends, or even former athletes. Take the time to let them know how much
you appreciate and cherish them. Life is fleeting, and the moments we
share with others are priceless.

NHSACA Update: Registration & Conference Schedule Available!
Conference Details & Registration
The NHSACA/SDHSCA Combined Summer Conference is fast
approaching this June! We’re excited about the momentum building and all
the hard work going into making this event a success.
A huge thank you goes out to Tim, Scott, and the entire South Dakota
Coaches Association team for their outstanding dedication and leadership
in organizing the conference.

Let’s make this event a memorable experience for all—a true celebration of
the passion, commitment, and impact of our coaches and their families.
Make sure you're registered!
Reach out to your Hall of Fame inductees and Coach of the Year
finalists to ensure they’re registered too.

Together, let’s honor those who give so much to our athletes and
communities.
Hotel Conference Pricing: The hotel conference price is set for 3 days
before and 3 days after the conference.

Speakers and Sessions: All speakers’ sessions are confirmed, and we
are currently finalizing the room assignments.

Board Breakfast: Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday breakfasts are
sponsored by SD Coaches and NHSACA.

Working Lunch: A working lunch will be provided on Sunday.

Sign-Up for Board Outing: An email will be sent out for sign-up regarding
the Sunday Board Outing and the Mount Rushmore Lighting
Ceremony.

Tuesday Guest Outing: Join Dave Dolan’s wife for a tour of Rapid City,
which includes visits to Prairie Edge, local breweries, and more!

Wednesday & Thursday: There will be a Pole Vault Summit.

Youth Wrestling Camp: The Youth Wrestling Camp will take place from
Wednesday through Saturday.