Let us be honest with each other, Coach Richard Kortokrax should not be resigning. It’s not his time.
However, he did not want to stir up trouble, so instead of fighting for what he wanted, he gave some people what they wanted. That is the type of person he is: selfless. He has done nothing but sacrifice for Kalida.
Why would he coach after his son passed away from cancer? Why would he continue to coach when his wife was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s? Why would he continue to coach when he was diagnosed with cancer? Why would he continue to coach when his heart was shattered after he lost his wife?
Well, the truth is, that after God and his family, basketball is his life.
If he was not at a birthday party for one of his many grandchildren or attending Mass, he was doing something related to basketball and his coaching. It was his life and his passion. He never wanted to be a coach, he just wanted to play basketball, but you know that time ages you. You don’t really have a choice but to stop playing … so he coached and he put his all into it for 56 years.
He only asked for one more year to coach. However, some felt like it was his time to go.
Their reasons:
• A student informed school board members that students no longer want to play for Coach Kortokrax;
• The community does not believe he is capable of being a coach anymore.
The board told Coach Kortokrax that the town and players are “ready for a change.” They said his practices are “too long” and “too demanding.”
For a program, that for the most part, has been successful and winning, I would expect fans to not have any complaints.
Kids and parents find his coaching style “not fun” and since he plays seniors it makes kids lose motivation to play and practice. Personally, I don’t see the fault in the coaching, I see the fault in the players. I’ve played basketball my whole life. In my experience, the coaches that spent more time preparing, spent more time winning.
Now we are teaching the generations below us: That it’s okay to take the easy way out; it’s okay to spend one hour practicing to win a Putnam County League title; it’s okay to not work hard because in reality everyone is a winner.
Our society has become so self-absorbed and this is teaching parents to feel like it’s their duty to make their children happy. Kids don’t need parents who make them happy; they need parents who will make them capable. Capable of working for things on their own. Capable of working hard and doing whatever it takes to accomplish their goals. Capable of making themselves happy. Capable of learning from failing.
Parents should teach their children patience. Instead of giving everything to your child, allow them to go through the opportunities alone, so they can learn about responsibility and learn the true feeling of being valuable. Players today feel like they are entitled. Well, you aren’t. Coach Kortokrax knows basketball more than most. It puzzles me why kids don’t want to learn from the best and why parents don’t want their kids to learn from the best. He has done nothing but sacrifice for Kalida and in return he gets no respect.
At his press conference, he explained how high school is an important time of growth and maturity for kids. He then went on to say how rarely any of his players play after high school. So, why does it matter when or how much they play? Especially if “they’re there to have fun.” Coach Kortokrax teaches more than basketball to his players, that’s what makes him the best. Players should’ve valued this more.
He was forced out, surprisingly, by only a few people who failed to realize the things he has done and taught that community and program. He said it himself; he will not be bitter at those who don’t believe in him. He has done much more than prove himself and if people are to selfish to see that, than so be it. However, he is heartbroken, even if he keeps his head high. We all know this decision was a selfish and disrespectful one.
I remember speaking to him after the press conference. He said, “Well, I hope someone is happy.” At that moment in time, my anger had reached a high and my heart had completely broken for him.
Yes, Coach Kortokrax is my grandfather. I say that with pride.
For those who read this, understand that it is out of respect for my grandpa and not to get back at anyone. A decision was made. Unfortunately, it’s time to move on. I just ask for you to find time to reflect on what really happened here and to reach out to my grandpa. This is a very tough time for him, so most importantly, find time to say a prayer for him.
To those who doubt him, I hope you realize no one will ever do the things he’s done. No one will ever love that program and those players more than him. And most of all, I hope one day you summon the courage to go up to the man who gave everything for you, your son, and your community, and apologize for taking away something so important to him.
To Grandpa: I love you very much. I am so sorry that people have made you feel like you failed something you love. Grandpa, you haven’t failed. They failed you. In this tough time, live in your glory and remember you are surrounded by people who love you and appreciate your love, commitment, knowledge, and wisdom. I am so proud of you and all of your accomplishments, but most importantly, I am so proud of how strong you have remained and how you never lost your faith.
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