Starting during childhood, basketball can become a lifelong friend and become a part of you for life.
Some athletes never lose their love for the game, even after they graduate and their playing days are long over.
Some become referees, physical trainers, sports broadcasters, and coaches. Mike Brown is one of those individuals who decided not to let his love for the game end with high school. He became a very successful coach for many different schools, including Paoli.
“I was interested in coaching while I was in high school. I really loved the game and admired my coaches,” said Brown.
Brown’s coaching career began at Madison High School, where he assumed the head coach position at Christian Academy of Louisville, Kentucky.
Brown’s legacy as a coach is evident by his career record.
“I’ve been very lucky in my coaching career. I’ve been able to win 500 games, nine sectional titles, seven regional titles, and went to the state finals in 1999, with Coach Cole as my point guard on that team. We won the Hall of Fame Classic in 1994 at New Castle. I also got to coach the Indiana All-Star team in 1999. Most of all, I was able to coach some great young men,” said Brown.
Many lessons can be learned from basketball: discipline, hard work, and many others. One of the best parts of the game is the lifelong friendships between players, coaches, and opponents.
“The most interesting part of coaching is the lifetime relationships you develop with players, coaches, managers, and families, very rewarding,” said Brown.
After years of retirement, Brown decided to get back in the game. Who better to help coach a team than one of his own athletes, Coach Cole?
“I usually get bored in the winter because I can’t travel as much. Dusty (Cole) had an open spot, and I thought it would be fun to get back together,” said Brown.
Brown has noticed many positive things while volunteering and helping Cole coach the Rams this season.
“The most impressive thing I’ve noticed so far is the attitude and work ethic of the kids and coaches. They all have great attitudes and want to learn and improve,” said Brown.
Although Brown has noticed many positive things about the team so far, there are always things to improve upon in sports, and Coach Brown has noticed some things the team could improve upon.
“We need to keep working together, blending some good young talent with the older guys. I’m looking forward to some of the unknown players to gain confidence and really help the team more as the season goes,” said Brown.
Brown has many high hopes for the team’s success this season, and he hopes his presence will be rewarding and that he can offer guidance to the Rams.
“I can hopefully use my experience to help develop the skills and confidence of all these players. I think it will be a great season,” said Brown.
