HODGDON, Maine — Sarah Williams, a Hodgdon first-grade teacher and high school softball coach continues to be amazed by the support she has received from the local community as part of U.S. Cellular’s “Most Valuable Coach” campaign.
Williams, who was announced as a top 15 finalist for the campaign on Oct. 11, was in third place in the voting as of Monday afternoon. She is the only remaining finalist from the state of Maine and is one of just two women in the top 15.
Representatives from U.S. Cellular were at Hodgdon Middle-High School Monday to present Williams with a $5,000 check for the school during a pep rally.
“We are very glad to have U.S. Cellular here today way up here in northern Maine,” SAD 70 Superintendent Scott Richardson said. “I hope you enjoy your visit here, and sorry if it is a little cold.”
Kelsey Saunders, tour manager for U.S. Cellular, gave a brief explanation of how the “Most Valuable Coach” program works.
“The U.S. Cellular Most Valuable Coach Program highlights and recognizes head and assistant coaches who have made a profound impact on an individual, school and their community, by connecting with the good in all of us,” Saunders said. “Ultimately, only one coach will earn the honor of Most Valuable Coach.”
He explained there were thousands of coaches nominated across the country. During the nomination process, coach Williams was described as a key asset to the community, a role model and winner. The top 50 finalists were selected and put out for public vote.
“This is indeed an auspicious celebration,” Hodgdon Principal Steve Fitzpatrick said. “We celebrate for many reasons, but for me the most important reason is to accent the role of coach and teacher within our community. When I think about the essence of outstanding coaches, I break it down to the fact that a great coach is able to inspire greatness in each of us. In the case of coach Williams, it is her actions of kindness, fairness, and a great heart that inspire her charges to be all they can be.”
Kora Lambert, one of the softball players who has been with the coach since middle school, said she looked up to coach Williams as more than just a coaching figure.
“Coach is an incredible softball coach and a real role model for all of us,” Lambert said. “She not only taught me about the game, she has taught me about life. She has always tried to instill a sense of leadership in all of us.”
Allie Winship, one of Williams softball players, was the student who nominated her for this award. Winship became emotional when expressing her feeling toward her coach.
“Coach Williams has not only taught me how to be a strong player, but to be a person who brings positivity to her community and the people around them,” Winship said. “Coach taught us to love everyone, even with their flaws, and to never give up, even when the going gets tough. The hours coach put in on and off the field has spoken volumes to me. Even though she never knew I was watching, her actions of teaching us how to be positive players and to work together as a team have inspired me to become a role model like she is to me.”
Williams said the experience has been one of the more humbling moments in her life.
“You have made me feel truly loved and supported,” Williams said of the community support she has received. “Thank you for recognizing how important our students and school are and how deserving they are.
“I am no more than a small example of how we live life here in Aroostook County,” she continued. “All of the character traits and leadership qualities I have been recognized for throughout this contest are the traits of each and every coach here at SAD 70. This is a Hodgdon way of life and I am happy to represent it.”
Stacey York, local marketing and brand activity manager, presented Williams with a new Samsung Note 9S at the conclusion of the ceremony.
At the end of the program, the final three winning coaches will receive a donation of $50,000, $20,000 and $10,000, respectively, for their schools. The company also will award the first place coach a Samsung tech prize package, valued at $30,000, for the winner’s school. The winning coaches will be announced on Nov. 20.
The final 15 coaches are listed on TheMostValuableCoach.com, and members of the public can vote for their favorite coaches each day, now through Nov. 13. Voting each day is encouraged.
