Why I coach, by Tim Husted

I don't have any platitude like "for the kids" or "for the game".  
 
When I was growing up I had great coaches including my Dad who were instrumental in helping me to learn life skills that have helped me be successful in life.  Sports was a vehicle that allowed me learn so much about myself and my potential.  It gave me discipline and helped me to understand that "hard work ain't easy" and "integrity and teamwork" mean something.  
 
When I got older, I wanted to stay involved in sports.  I wanted to do something that allowed for me to continue to learn while passing on the lessons to others.  
 
So I started coaching.  And now what motivates me to drive up to LaCrosse and Black River Falls for clinics or to Rosemount for Dome Ball or anywhere else the Danes need me is because I have the most grateful and appreciative group of athletes anyone could ask for.    
 
It kinda started and now it rolls downhill.  Each year I hear from many many former players who thank me for the opportunities the Danes provided.  Each year I hear from parents who thank me for the opportunities their community couldn't provide.  Each year I get the opportunity to work with some of the most wonderful and talented athletes and young women.  
 
I also love the game.  I find softball to be an outstanding sport that when played at a high level provides wonderful competition, challenge and great strategy.  
 
I am motivated to be the best coach I can be and certainly have personal goals around coaching.   I coach for self-gratification.  
 
I am motivated to win any National Championship with players from WI and MN.  My goal is to help each player find college softball opportunities if they so wish.  My goal is that the Danes reputation be one that is generally respected for great softball, grateful people and strong fundamentals like integrity, teamwork and dedication.  
 
My players are the ones that miss social events to get in batting practice.  My players are willing to travel to play ball every weekend in summer even if the family is going to the cabin.  My players want to be coached with a level of intensity and the challenges that I provide them.  The families in the Danes will pay $50 a week and spend 3 hours a week with professional pitching coaches.  They work out on their own.  They listen to everything they hear to learn.  They are not "here to socialize".  They don't want to be held back by the others, they have worked very hard to become very good and they want the honors and benefits that they earned through hard work and sacrifice.  .    
 
But I'm like my players, I am the outlier.  I am the person who drives 12 hours a weekend to coach.  I am the person who spends 20 hours a week working on administrative work.  I sacrifice vacations, family time, social events and a normal twenty something life for the Danes.  I put a ton into coaching and learning and preparing and doing everything I can to make sure that I meet my goals and the program is successful meeting its goals.  And if the Danes are successful and I am successful, I'm glad to get that type of "glorification".  
 
It was earned.