BY RUBEN CARILLO
Describe how your teaching tactics have changed over the years? I have become more laid back. Instead of trying to force the issue, just a more laid back attitude.
Why did you decide to teach the subject that you teach? Because I’ve loved sports from when I was four. I went to college, got my pre- med and after that I decided I really wanted to teach this.
Describe why you went into teaching? Coach Joe Johnston. I was finishing my physical education major and he really encouraged me to teach to teach PE. Teaching is a great career. He is my mentor. We have stayed connected for over 40 years.
What did you love about teaching? Watching kids learn how to do athletic events, and watching a kid develop a new skill he could use his whole life.
Who has helped you the most during your years of teaching? Nelson Browning [he was my mentor] at Boone; I taught his oldest son tennis. Joe Johnston. I always asked for advice for track and everything.
What did you want to be when you were a child? I didn’t have any lifetime goals except to become a professional athlete.
Describe your favorite class. Teaching tennis. I taught tennis class over 15 years. It is a lifetime sport you can play until you die.
Describe what your favorite moment has been while teaching? The night I was in the stands and watched James Beckford win the silver medal in the long jump at the 1996 Olympics. I coached him for three years.