In 1979 NA graduate Steve Robertson was chosen to coach the girls’ spring track team. It was Steve who convinced me that we should co-coach. His passion for the sport helped turn me from a past athlete to a coach. The attention to team history that is the backbone of our program grew out of his fastidious attention to record keeping. Our first year together was NA’s first winning season, an undefeated Hockomock League dual meet championship. Our co-coaching lasted until 1986 and culminated in a state championship. Steve moved on to Maine where his coaching excellence continues to produce quality teams. But many of his philosophies and team policies still remain. I owe Steve a large thanks.

I’ve been fortunate to have a stream of highly qualified and dedicated assistant coaches who have enabled the traditions of the early 80’s to continue. Each has brought a fresh eye and new ideas to the program. In addition, past athletes return to the program to donate time and experience.

Today’s athletes continue to impress me with their willingness to adhere to rigid standards of dedication as they continue to represent our school with class. They formulate lofty goals and work hard to achieve them.

I enjoy the efforts of an active booster group that labor unselfishly to provide extras for the team. More so, the parents have shown their own respect for the sport, becoming partners in educating the athletes to the benefits of dedication.

It nearly goes without saying that the North Attleboro School Department and athletic department have always been 100% behind the sport and the athletes.

I have been surrounded by a remarkable group of people. They have given me well over 200 reasons to celebrate and I hope to enjoy many more in the future.