By Staff
Commentary by KEVIN TRAVIS, Sports Editor
It only seems fitting that Charlie Woolard’s last track and field meet came at the state championships.
What would have been a perfect ending would have been a state title for the beloved and well-respected Northside High School track and field coach.
Or, better yet, maybe to have seen Woolard stand up on the awards platform to receive a medal himself.
But he wouldn’t have done that. He’s never been in this — the world of high school athletics — for himself.
No, Sarge has always been about the kids.
And it wasn’t just about his Northside Panthers. Woolard also truly cared for and appreciated the work of the other Beaufort County track and field teams, the Southside Seahawks and the Washington Pam Pack.
Woolard drew the respect of his peers because of his class, his integrity, his dedication and his knowledge.
Woolard also had the respect of his athletes.
If Sarge asked an athlete to do something, that athlete knew it was for a reason. Woolard, also the cross country coach at Northside, would often run alongside his athletes.
Next year won’t be the same for the cross country and track and field athletes at Northside. After several successful seasons with the Panthers, Woolard has decided to step down.
It couldn’t have been an easy decision for Woolard because I know how much he enjoys coaching; I know how much he enjoys the sports he coaches and I know how much he enjoys spending time with high school athletes.
Woolard has been one of the best and easiest coaches I’ve worked with in my 17-year journalism career.
He always wanted what was best for his student-athletes and it showed. Woolard is a class act, and he’ll be missed.
I salute you, Sarge.
—–
Kevin Travis is the sports editor of the Washingto Daily News. You may reach him at 940-4217, or by e-mail at kevin@wdnweb.com.