By Douglas J. Lanzo
Copyright 2024

First published in Faith on Every Corner (July, 2024 Issue)

Written for the Hall of Fame induction ceremony of Former Cross-Country Coach and Footlocker National Coach of the Year, Robert Ford, Senior

I have run with each of you
in spirit or by your side
over many a road and trail —
doggedly climbing, surging, striding —
through cherished triumphs and travails.

Yet when I look back and ponder
on fields crossed and ground traversed,
the truth that is illumined
comes to me in words and verse:

I see boys who became men
in journeys of mind and soul,
who learned more than how to run
forging ahead despite the toll,
living as men for others
with grit, discipline and heart,
serving God, team and country
by example, from the start,
proudly coaching you to stand
side by side—brothers—stalwart.