In August of 2005, 10 boys from Auberle, ages 12 to 14, traveled to New Hampshire for the “Youth All Sports Weekend” to compete in a variety of games and sporting events against several organizations from up and down the Eastern Seaboard.

One of the things being tried for the first time was to have an older boy serve in the role of “junior staff/assistant coach/mentor” for the younger boys. The person chosen for this role was a boy by the name of Brandon who will be moving from Auberle’s Residential Care to Transitional Housing while attending college and looking for employment.

Brandon took his responsibilities very seriously and did a great job in working with the younger residents. He attended mandatory coach’s meetings, was introduced to staff from other agencies as “assistant coach” and was addressed by the younger residents as “coach.” With Brandon being involved with Auberle sports as a player for many years, it was exciting to see him talk to the kids as a coach.

It was quite amazing to hear the things that Brandon was saying as he talked to the kids. He actually was almost quoting staff and saying things that we have said for years to our players. Even though sometimes we don’t think the kids are grasping what we are saying, Brandon proved that was not the case.

In November of 2005, Brandon was recognized by Bishop Wuerl at Auberle’s Annual Board Meeting. He was presented with a shirt that read “Coach” and a gold crucifix and chain. Brandon proudly wears the cross presented to him. When asked how he felt about coaching and the presentation, Brandon replied, "I feel like I accomplished something. It was a good new experience."

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