Article from Fosters.com
By ADAM WHITE
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Thursday, November 12, 2009 |
DOVER — Between academics and athletics, Dave Smith has held numerous titles in his lifetime.
Go ahead and add Hall of Famer to that list. For his 42 years of coaching various sports, Smith will be inducted into the NHIAA Coaching Hall of Fame Sunday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. The ceremony will be held at the Grappone Center in Concord.
"It's a very nice honor," said Smith of his induction. "I guess it becomes a possibility when you've been around as long as I have (laughs). It truly is a nice time to reflect on the many years though — time to appreciate all the kids I've had an opportunity to coach, as well as my wife and family for all their support."
Smith received his B.A degree from Plymouth State College, a master's degree from New Hampshire College, and another advanced degree from the University of New Hampshire. Before taking the job of headmaster at Coe-Brown Northwood Academy in 1980, Smith taught and coached at Austin Cate Academy in Center Strafford, Laconia High School, and Alton Central Schools.
Smith coached the junior-varsity basketball team for his first two years at Coe-Brown, and later took over the varsity reigns when the position became available. Smith works as the headmaster and varsity basketball coach to this day. He credits his ability to handle two ultra-stressful positions to the passion he shares for both athletics and academics.
"It makes for a pretty full day," he said with a laugh. "But I love coach, and I love to teach."
Smith is in the minority when it comes to headmasters (principals) who also coach.
"Honestly, it gives me a great balance," said Smith. "As headmaster I have the opportunity to interact with the students on an academic level, while as a basketball coach, I also have the chance to play a role in their athletic development. It's the total package for me."
As for how long he plans to continue serving double duty, Smith isn't looking too far down the road.
"There's no set plan for when I'll stop coaching," he said. "I'm just taking it one year at a time — enjoying each season as much as possible. The biggest thing is that I'm still having as much fun now as when I started."
Smith believes his time spent attending Plymouth State had a large impact on his future success.
"Going to Plymouth State was a great educational experience for me," he said. "I took a number of teaching and coaching classes there, as well as being involved with plenty of intermural sports and other recreational activities. Those things gave me valuable knowledge about both athletics and academics — which I was then able to take into the real world."
When asked to recall his favorite coaching memory, Smith found the task to be too difficult.
"There's been so many positive memories over the years," he said. "It would be impossible to pick one favorite — or two — or three."
Smith further explained that his favorite part about coaching isn't compiling wins, but rather watching kids turn into young adults.
"I've had many outstanding teams, many special seasons, " he said. "But the thing that gives me the most satisfaction — far more than winning — is watching the players grow up and develop into successful members of community. Seeing them become fathers, husbands, college graduates — that's what makes a coach feel great."
Smith plans on to bring his family with him to Sunday's induction ceremony.
"I could have never accomplished this without the love and support of my family," he said. "It's only right that they be there Sunday. I'd say my wife deserves the most credit for putting up with me all these years (laughs) — she's the best."
