Todd Beck

“When I think of rugby, I think of Todd Beck.”

Coach New Brunswick was able to sit down with another recipient of last year’s “Leave Your Mark” Coaching Awards, Todd Beck. Todd was awarded with the “School Sport” Coaching Award for his tireless dedication to the Miramichi Valley High School (MVHS) Rugby Team. This award is presented to a New Brunswick Interscholastic Athletic Association coach whose outstanding efforts and commitment have helped the development of student-athletes and empowered former and current athletes to get coaching.

Passion, enthusiasm and dedication. These are just a few of the words used by Todd Beck’s former players when describing their coach and his philosophies. Since 1999, Todd has been at the helm of the MVHS Boys Rugby Team. His coaching career began shortly after his playing days ended at the school, as a way to remain involved in the sport he loves. Year after year Todd has continued to return to the sidelines of his old stomping grounds and has impacted hundreds of lives along the way.

Just as Todd returned to help his former team following graduation, many past players often return to help run practices and drills with the current team. The tradition of giving back has become somewhat of a trademark with Todd’s teams over the years. He understands the value in allowing the newer players to learn from experienced alumni, while allowing the alumni to gather valuable coaching exposure and experience in teaching the sport.

When asked what has motivated him to keep coming back as a volunteer after all of these years, Todd’s answer was simple. “To see kids come out in grade 9 and watch them grow throughout the years that they are with me” said Todd.  “Before you know it they are in grade 12 and it is incredible to see the players and young men that they have become.”

What truly distinguishes Todd from many other volunteers is the immense compassion and enthusiasm he displays on the sidelines of the pitch. These characteristics are reflected through the young men he has coached. One former player described Todd’s enthusiasm as “infectious.” He went on to describe Todd as more than just a rugby coach, but as a life coach. “He was a role model, and I firmly believe that he has helped mold me into the man I am today” said the player.

Todd was honoured to have been recognized last year as the province’s “School Sport” Coaching Award winner. “It puts that drive into you to keep going and it makes you want to learn more about coaching” he said. There is little doubt that Todd will keep going, and continue leaving his mark on the rugby program at MVHS for years to come!

 

Stay tuned for more coach profiles highlighting last year’s Leave Your Mark Award Winners!