To our dismay, Coach Sanderson, who coaches track and football, and Coach Nix, who coaches defense for football, have decided to move schools. Students and coaches around the school are extremely sad and disappointed, and replacing them will be difficult.
Coach Sanderson’s players and students are upset about his decision to move to Cherokee High School, but they are coming to terms with the fact that it is best for him. He says, “It takes me forty-five minutes to an hour and fifteen to get here [Hillgrove] and get home. It takes twenty-one miles to get here.” His decision is understandable, judging by the fact that he has two small children at home that he doesn’t get to see as often as he would if he worked closer to home.
Although his decision is logical, the students and faculty of Hillgrove will miss him dearly. He says, “My favorite thing at Hillgrove is my relationship with the kids I’ve had.” Coach Sanderson has made connections with his students and players, his three years at Hillgrove, that will never be forgotten.
Coach Nix is also leaving because of the drive to and from Hillgrove, as well as a promotion. He says, “This is a great opportunity for me to get closer to the house. It is something I feel like I couldn’t pass up.” He continues, and says,” I will be the assistant principal of Etowah High School.” This promotion will benefit him in many ways; keeping him close to his four year old son, as well as being promoted.
He says, “I will miss the relationships I’ve formed over these 9 years; my colleagues, former students, and I will miss coaching.” The students, players, and coaches will miss Coach Nix a lot. We will miss his passion on the field, breaking clipboards, and the way he pushes his players and students in the weight room.
These coaches are exceptional, and they have left a mark on Hillgrove. We will miss seeing their friendly faces in the hallway and on the fields. We wish them good luck, as they move on to Cherokee and Etowah, and we hope they come visit. Thank you Coach Sanderson and Coach Nix for leaving such an impression on Hillgrove!