Don VanPool was the greatest coach I ever knew. He not only taught his players basketball, but he also gave us valuable lessons for life. I still remember many of the quotes and phrases he used to motivate us. Coach VanPool helped us turn into men. Unfortunately, I have been out of town and didn't learn of his passing until after the funeral. I am deeply sorry I was not there to share in the memories and talk with the family. This is a great loss to those who knew and loved him. I will never forget that coach VanPool was willing to take a chance on a skinny, gangly kid, and put him in the starting line-up. That faith in me meant a great deal to me. I hope I did not disappoint him. Thank you, Coach, for all you did for me. My prayer is that Coach's family is warmed by the knowledge that so many young men were touched by one man's life. May God bless all of you.