‘Coach Kay’ great example of a leader
I am frustrated with our country’s lack of leadership in the Executive Office and Congress.
I feel like somehow the message was lost in translation when they were discussing the job description for a public servant. It starts with selfless service and a sense of duty. It’s an understanding that the leader serves those they lead and not the other way around.
Growing up in Vacaville I had a few excellent leaders in my life like Larry Nelson, Dave Nelson, and Mike Boele. They understood they could make a bigger impact focusing on the student rather than their own accomplishments. That is why the actions of Vacaville High School’s Cross Country and Track Coach — Kay Nekota — deserves to be held in the highest esteem.
Her accolades from her high school and collegiate athletics and academics are extremely impressive, yet she will not mutter a word to that point. As a coach, she continues that same level of effort every day going far beyond what is expected and normal to lead her student athletes.
Coach Kay, as she is lovingly called, spends all year, five to six days a week, supporting her athletes. Whether it’s teaching them about values such as character, establishing a high standard for academics, a pre-dawn swim workout, a summer run at 6:30 a.m. in Lagoon Valley, a summer camping trip for team cohesion, or raising the funds necessary for a competitive trip to Mt. SAC and Disneyland, Coach Kay selflessly leads from the front.
She sets the personal example and her kids consistently rise to the challenge and either meet or exceed her expectations. This year, my three sons were fortunate enough to have Coach Kay as their coach and we are all the better for it. As one of my sons eloquently put it, “joining cross country was like joining a family.”
So, my point to this is that when we’re looking for examples of leadership, we really don’t have far to look. Coach Kay, thank you for your time, effort, and energy. We appreciate you!
Ed Rapisarda, Vacaville
Courtesy The Reporter
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