When you think of high school, one of the first things to come to mind is the sports….the fall leaves being trampled on the football field, the sound of the buzzer at the end of a basketball game…. the pride of bringing that championship banner home. When you think of sports at Chestermere High School (CHS), you think of Coach Rob Wilson.
Since 1982, straight after graduating from University, Coach Wilson has been a vital part of the Chestermere High School faculty teaching Physical Education and Math teacher. Wilson also coached mostly boys basketball and golf but have coached the girls basketball as well over the years.
Recently, it was announced that Coach Wilson is hanging up his CHS coaching whistle and will be retiring at the end of the 2016 school year. At the recent Chestermere High School Athletic Awards event, Coach Wilson was inducted into the Chestermere High School Hall of Fame – a surprise that caught the Coach speechless and emotional.
Fellow teacher and coach, Brian Utley, old me that both he and Wilson have completed their two years of half-time teaching as part of the RVSD (Rocky View School Division) transition program. “I will continue to be involved in the school as a coach and substitute teacher, but Rob’s plans are to not teach or coach. I think he deserves some attention for his many achievements”, says Utley.
When asked about his friend and co-worker, Utley had this to say “”Rob has made a significant contribution to the students and athletes of Chestermere High School in his 34 years. He has won numerous championships and had many of his athletes move on to post-secondary basketball programs. As well, he has made a difference in the lives of his students and athlete by teaching them many valuable life lessons. His influence has been profound and his presence at Chestermere High School will be missed.”
With the dedication and commitment of over three decades to one school but thousands of students, it would likely be hard to pick some favourite moments, but I asked Coach Wilson what were some of the highlights from his time at CHS.
“Being at the same school for the entire time….seeing the basketball program have a lot of success over the 34 years. Winning 5 provincial championships and having players from our school play on provincial teams or moving on to post secondary to play. Being able to coach both my kids and seeing them go on to play at University and coaching with alumni or my wife”, says Wilson.
The surprise of being inducted into the Chestermere High School Hall of Fame rendered the Coach a little speechless but he said that it was such an honour to be recognized for years of service.
So as this era ends for the much-loved Coach, what will retirement bring? Coach Wilson says he has no set plans yet.
Congratulations and thank you Coach Wilson!
