With Mother's Day being this Sunday, I asked area coaches for thoughts about Mother's Day and their mothers. Here are the responses:
"My mom's name is Elva. She is my biggest fan. She guided me through many of the ups and downs of coaching football. She is the first text on my phone after every single game I have ever coached. I know that her constant prayers and encouragement is why I have had the success I have had. She raised four very successful men. I can tell you without hesitation she is my anchor along with my wife."
--- Franklinton head football coach Nick Saltaformaggio
"I firmly believe that our environment plays a significant role in shaping who we are. My mother, Pam Brumfield, has had a profound impact on my life and has taught me invaluable lessons that have molded me into the person I am today. She is a unique blend of toughness and compassion. I vividly recall how she would downplay an injury or illness I had a s a child, never making a big deal out of it. Her selflessness and caring nature have been evident in the way she has taken care of every member of my family, from my father to my grandparents, during their times of need. She has instilled in me the importance of perseverance teaching me that nothing in life comes easily. I remember how she would play goalie with her first grandchild during a soccer game in our yard. Even though my niece was only six, my mother wouldn't let her score easily. When I suggested that she allow my niece to score, she replied 'do you think they'll let her score that easily in a real game?' this anecdote exemplifies the toughness, competitiveness and caring nature that my mother has passed down to me, ultimately shaping me into the person I am today."
---Former Varnado Head Coach Adam Brumfield
"I want to wish my Mom Liz King a Happy Mother's Day. I would not be the person I am today without her. I am grateful for all she has done for me in my life."
--- Bowling Green head football coach Dean King
"My mother, Renee Oestriecher is the most unselfish person I know and a huge reason I am where I am today. I want to thank her for everything she's done for me and giving me all the opportunities I've had in my life! She is also an amazing grandmother who does so much for my family!!"
--- Franklinton head basketball coach Brad Oestriecher
"It's hard to put into words what my mom means to me. She has always supported me to the fullest. I wouldn't be where I am without her. As I have went through my coaching career, I would say I've noticed a lot of my leadership comes from her."
--- Pine head football coach Bradley Seal
"To my incredible mom, Toni Tageant. You have been the greatest mother I could ever ask for. For the past 40 years, you have dedicated your life to your sons, Evan and Clay, your husband, Coach Jeff Tageant, and the community of Franklinton. Your unwavering commitment to Franklinton High School and its students has left a lasting impact on so many lives.
Now, you embark on your greatest adventure yet as "Nanna" to your three granddaughters, Fallon, Farrah, and Indie. Your love knows no bounds, and you always put the happiness of your family, friends, and students first.
Throughout the many changes in my life over the past 32 years, one thing has remained constant: your unwavering love and support. Thank you for everything you do and for being the heart of our family.
Happy Mother's Day!"
--- Franklinton head baseball coach Clay Tageant
"One of the most difficult things I have dealt with in my life was losing my mother Jewel Tageant. After losing my Dad in 1972 with 6 children between 7 and 18 years old I can only imagine how difficult it was. She sacrificed to give us a great childhood and life. All 6 of her children attained college degrees.
When I became Coach at FHS she became a great fan of Demon baseball again just like she did when my Dad coached. Also, her and my wife Toni became very close going to games together and Mom mentored Toni into being a coach's wife.
After each game she would call me and say "I thought your boys played really good" whether we won or lost.
Now Toni does that with our boys. She was able to show Toni what it was like being a coach's wife and a coach's mother.
I feel her watching over me and my family and I am still proud to call her my Mom."
--- Retired Franklinton head baseball coach Jeff Tageant
"My mom, Peg Beard, like all our mom's is the best mom ever because she's my mom! My mom missed my very first homerun when I was 6 years old and vowed to never miss another game in my career and did just that, she was the ultimate support system that was there no matter the good or the bad, wins or losses, and all the injuries (and surgeries) that come with playing the great game of football, and we had one heck of a ride!! I could never thank my mom enough for being her and always giving and sacrificing for me and my sisters. Happy Mother's Day to the best mom ever!!! Love you!!"
--- Denham Springs head football coach Brett Beard (former FHS assistant coach)
