It
has been long recognized that it is part of the
human condition to not just enjoy but need recognition.
As a result all sorts of sports, schools and corporations
have recognition programs. I have to admit after
all these many years of coaching and sacrifice
to be voted "Coach of the Year" was for
me a reward that goes far beyond money ever could.
We thought to call our program "Knights
of the Garter." This is an old order that
dates back to feudal times. It is thought more
likely that as the garter was a small strap
used as a device to attach pieces of armour,
it might have been thought appropriate to use
the garter as a symbol of binding together in
common brotherhood.
The Most Noble Order of the
Garter is one of the oldest and most important
of all such Orders throughout
the world, with the concept of a like minded
brotherhood dedicated to service and chivalry,
these core principals having survived intact
and are as relevant today as at its conception
over 650 years ago.
It was during the 11th and 12th
centuries within the warrior-classes the idea
of the medieval notion of chivalry and knighthood first
developed. The Crusades in the Middle East had
released these men from the previous constraints
of feudalism. They could now express their new-found
identity by the creation of religious and military
orders of chivalry.
If you were to take those principals and translate
them into our times I see them as a person being
a true team player. A person who will give their
all for the benefit of their team mates. There
will be no effort to great or sacrifice to much.
Also when I played soccer (pre-duct tape days)
we wore an elastic garter to hold our soccer
socks in place and to stop them from slipping
down. It was with this idea in mind that our
program was conceived. All the boys will wear
an elastic garter around their sock on their
left leg at each game.
We will after each game (probably
at the next practice) present boys a ribbon for
their efforts and commitment to the game, their
team and their dedication to their chosen sport.
The ribbon will then be attached to the garter.
These can then be worn at games hopefully with
pride.