Coaches are vital to the success of a team, arguably even more so than the players competing. The expertise within their minds provides great guidance and structure for their athletes, which benefits one’s skill set to perform at a dominant level. Since the beginning of my athletic career, I have been surrounded by mentors in sports who have given their best efforts to help me become the competitor I am today. But like many individuals who have had the opportunity to be mentored, there is one coach that stands out in my life. My one standout coach was my fastpitch coach, Satero. He transformed my perspective on sports entirely.

My last year of middle school was when I first met Satero. I was thirteen when I discovered the thrill of fastpitch. I sought out further guidance to improve my performance as a pitcher. My parents reached out to relatives who recommended a fastpitch coach they had prior interactions with. Despite the unease I felt about a new mentor, I knew this coach had the competence to advance my fastpitch capabilities and seize this occasion.

It was a chilly Saturday morning in the budding spring when I anticipated my first session with Satero. I was met by a friendly man who exchanged kind pleasantries, outlining what he planned to do that day for training. During the session, even with my slight nervousness, Satero offered insights into pitching techniques where he demonstrated drills that improved the execution of the action. Throughout this time, Satero provided constructive criticism on the technical aspects of the pitching process which brought great results. Once our time was up, Satero told me that I had the potential to succeed and naturally had the necessary mechanics. I was excited to continue our sessions. At that point, I knew Satero perfectly matched me as my fastpitch coach as his mentorship yielded me the comprehension of fastpitch’s dexterity.

Over the next two years, Satero raised my cognizance about the intricacies involved with pitching. Although I had major improvements in my proficiency in fastpitch, my family and I grew to have a strong relationship with Satero— from sending Christmas cards to having extensive talks about our lives outside of fastpitch. The constant routine with Satero had also embedded lessons that went further beyond just the sport. I especially recall these enlightened views after Satero’s sudden passing. Stunned by the revelation, I reflected on the moments we shared.

Though death is inevitable, the time we share with others is invaluable, filled with moments that shape our character. Despite Saterio’s passing, I know he would have wanted me to reflect on the qualities he instilled in me; intensity and effort bring out the best in performance and that resilience is built through consistency. Through his mentorship, I developed not only as an athlete but also as a person. I started as a reserved individual, hesitant to embrace new challenges. But under Satero’s guidance, I learned to step out of my shell. I became more outgoing and confident in my communication, strengthening my role as a leader within my team and community. These lessons go beyond sports, Satero’s mentorship taught me how to face challenges with determination and grace—qualities I will extend into every aspect of my life. Though his absence is deeply felt, his legacy endures in the values he instilled in me. For that, I will always be grateful.

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