It was the summer before seventh grade at North Shore Middle School when I moved to Hartland. I didn’t know a single person. I was making my way up the hill to the school softball diamond where I would be trying out for the Ladyhawks. There is not much I remember from this day other than that outreaching smile and kindhearted laugh of Coach Albers. His energy outpoured in a way that brought comfort to a nerve-filled day. This energy has never left. 

When I think about playing softball for him, a mental and physical drain is never associated with it. Rather, having a good attitude and keeping the sport easy going describes him. Showing up to his softball practices a couple nights a week is a place where I am allowed to feel and have emotions. It is a place where friendships are loud and jokes are expressed freely. It is also a place where jolly ranchers are handed out regularly. His spirit reminded me to not take everything so seriously. In 20 years, I will not remember every loss, but rather the inside jokes and relationships developed within it. 

Mr. Albers’s selflessness and gentle heart shows through everything he does. Sometimes I wonder if he even has a single bad bone in his body. I can spot his laugh from a mile away; without even looking at him, I know that child-like grin is lit up all over his face. Jokes never run short in his presence, even on our team’s worst days. Positivity is always expressed. It is so easy to see the glass half empty, but he never does this. His attitude inspires me to look at life from a positive perspective and find joy in little moments. 

I once had a major mental block in a game and it shook me up. I got pulled out and cried into my hands in the dugout. Sitting there, embarrassed and disappointed, I wasn’t alone. Mr. Albers was by my side, waiting for me until I was ready to talk. He stayed after the game and played catch with me until I felt calm again. As we threw, not talking about what had happened, I felt comforted knowing he didn’t have to be doing this. He wasn’t mad or disappointed—he was only supportive. He has made me think about how my actions can truly affect a person, and I will never forget that feeling of empathy he gave me on this day. 

I cannot thank you enough, Mr. Albers, for just being you. You are someone I look up to and relate to. You have been a role model not only for me, but so many others. Your energy is something that is hard to forget and it reminds me to smile and have fun. Lastly, that single jolly rancher here and there always hit the spot!