Unique Visits
Tradition of Excellence Continues as Ed Stickles Steps Into Head Coach Role
Ed (as all his runners call him) is one of the very few people who can make something as trivial, monotonous, and sometimes torturous as running seem fun. After coaching the boys in the winter as an assistant, leading them to win both the League and Class C title, Ed will now step into head coach role for the spring.
“It feels good,” said Ed with a smile across his jovial face. “It is an excellent change to become head coach. All the things you always have thought about [as an assistant], you can finally do.”
He certainly is suited for the job. An intense and successful cross country runner in both High School and at Cortland College, Ed is a veteran of the sport and has participated in marathons all around the country (Antarctica remains un-tackled, however). In addition, Stickles has previous coaching experience at Harrison High School, a perennial track and field powerhouse.
But as any coach can attribute, there is more to coaching than simply knowing the sport. Stickles has a different coaching philosophy than many track and field coaches, which he hopes will propel his team to new heights. “I like kids to enjoy coming to practice,” said Stickles, something which is not easy for a practice that consists of pretty much nothing but running and strenuous workouts. “I look to bring a positive attitude to the sport, and to win while having fun.” Ed also looks to increase the unity on the team. “I want everyone to be part of the one team,” explained Stickles, who acknowledged that there has been somewhat of a gap between the sprinters and long distance runners in recent years, mostly because they seldom run together in practice.
Long time Bronxville Girls coach and High School Track legend Jim Mitchell will lend Ed a hand in the spring as well. Mitchell has coached with Ed for the past three years and has extremely high expectations for him. “I think he is a wonderful choice,” said Mitchell, excitement in his voice. “He brings humor and intelligence to every workout.” Mitchell will work with the boys mid-distance runners this spring and has high expectations for the team. “The outlook for the team is very good,” said Mitchell, who acknowledges that the whole team, including Ed, will have to work very hard to succeed and win another sectional title. “I hope he will be so busy he can’t make any ‘old man’ jokes to me,” jested Mitchell.
In addition to Stickles and Mitchell, the boys will be coached by James Salerno, a first year coach at Bronxville who works with the Field athletes on the team. After aiding the sectional victory in the winter with 1st and 2nd finishes in the shotput, Salerno looks forward to another successful season. “I am very excited to work with Coach Stickles and look forward to another very successful season,” said Salerno.
Overall, there are very high hopes for the Boy’s spring track team. With fresh leadership, determined coaching, and undeniable talent, the team certainly looks ready to continue the tradition of excellence that characterizes the program. “That is one of the reasons I came here,” said Stickles, “and I look forward to taking on the challenge and continuing it. Maybe I’ll even give Mitchell a run for his money.”
The school offers its congratulations to Mr. Stickles and wishes him the best of luck for the spring season and on. However, there is one vital question that remains unanswered for Stickles: “TWO?”
