Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Jerry McNerney (D-Stockton) wrote to President Obama to ask that Oct. 6th officially be designated as National Coaches Day. Congressman McNerney became aware of the previous designation by President Nixon through a letter sent to him by Madeline Woznick, a 12-year-old student from his district.
“It is important that we take the time to recognize the positive effects that coaches have in the lives of our youth. I thank Ms. Woznick, a remarkable young lady, for writing to me and leading this initiative. I encourage the president to officially designate Oct. 6th as National Coaches Day to honor the commitment that coaches have to the success of our students,” said Congressman McNerney.
Congressman McNerney received over 100 other letters of support from students in his district that he sent to the White House along with his letter asking that Oct. 6th be designated as National Coaches Day.
The text of the letter reads:
September 9, 2013
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear President Obama:
As you well know, sports are enjoyed across the United States, from the timeless tradition of baseball to uniquely American football. Sports are one of the most effective community-building institutions, especially within schools. They bring together athletes, coaches, students, teachers, and parents. None of this would be possible without the work of coaches, which is why I am respectfully asking you to recognize and proclaim October 6, 2013, as National Coaches Day.
Many school sports programs would not be possible without volunteer coaches, who selflessly donate countless hours and resources to help student-athletes. Coaches are community leaders that provide essential support and mentoring to student-athletes throughout the country. Furthermore, students who participate in sports not only have improved physical outcomes, they also have higher academic performance and a lower drop out rate. At a time when national childhood obesity rates are just beginning to turn the corner, it is more important than ever to promote physical activity. Efforts such as First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign have been an effective tool in promoting this message.
As President Nixon said when he recognized the first National Coaches Day in 1972, coaches “do not work for personal glory. Their satisfaction usually comes through the achievement of others whom they have helped.” Again, I respectfully ask you to recognize and proclaim October 6, 2013, as National Coaches Day.
Sincerely,
Jerry McNerney
Member of Congress
Earlier this year, Congressman McNerney spoke on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize Ms. Woznick and the importance of recognizing the influence coaches have in the lives of today’s youth.
The text of the statement follows:
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the efforts of Madeline Woznick, a 12-year old student-athlete who lives in Lodi, California, which is located in my district. A competitive swimmer, Madeline has worked to bring attention to the hard work and dedication of coaches across the country and is advocating for an annual National Coaches Day.
There are tens of millions of student-athletes in the country, from grade school through college. Coaches are fundamental to the teaching of students, and I am grateful for their endeavors to train and develop the next generation. Today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders, and it is important that they have teachers who inspire and encourage them in their educational pursuits. As Madeline says, coaches can motivate and inspire students to work on bettering themselves.
More than 40 years ago President Nixon declared October 6, 1972 as National Coaches Day, and Madeline is working to ensure that every October 6th is National Coaches Day. Although National Coaches Day has not officially been celebrated since 1972, I know that their efforts continue to be appreciated by every community across the country.
I urge my colleagues to join me in applauding Madeline Woznick and coaches across the nation.
Thank you. I yield back.
