With 100 days in the season and only 22 games, there isn’t much time to get to know somebody. But it took me less than a week to get to know Coach Peterson. Walking into basketball tryouts the first day of sophomore year, I didn’t know what to expect. Parading across the court I heard a bellowing laugh no one would be able to miss.
That upcoming season, I almost made the decision to not play basketball that year. I never stood out in any sports. My past coaches didn’t see me as unique, but Mr. Peterson was different. He took a liking to everyone on the team and got to know us--our likes, dislikes, and future dreams (and he did this all within the first week). Coach Peterson made me love the sport again with his hard working, fun-loving, and persistent attitude.
He was one of the wisest, happiest, and best advice givers I’ve ever met. And he always knew how to have fun.
I went from not being noticed to starting every game that season. He had hope, and believed in everything I did.
Coach Peterson didn’t just come to practice everyday with a smile and a fun attitude, but he also came knowing that each one of us wanted to succeed. Every practice, I could feel myself and my other teammates getting better and becoming better leaders. 
Practices were designed everyday to get us to improve our weaknesses. Mr. Peterson would stay up late every night and construct a two-hour practice to benefit us the best. He would always go above and beyond to get us ready for the game which included him going to other games on his free nights and scouting out the competition.
The first day of practice he said, “Winning will not come easy, but I know with the talent of this team we will go far. I see so much potential in every single one of you.” He was right: winning didn’t come easy. But sure enough, barely winning one of our first games in overtime, we started to get the hang of it. We ended the season undefeated with smiles and tears across everyone’s faces -- including Peterson's.
I’m beyond thankful for how Coach Peterson has impacted my life, and made me a better person and this is why I’m choosing to nominate him.