“ I did not realize what an impact it would have , not just on our child ’ s life but on so many other lives . It ’ s an important job , but you do not realize how important it is until you see the work that goes into it .”
“ I did not realize what an impact it would have , not just on our child ’ s life but on so many other lives . It ’ s an important job , but you do not realize how important it is until you see the work that goes into it .”
~ Casey Page
as a mentor and confidante , she offers guidance and encouragement to the players on and off the field . Felton prioritizes all the needs of the team members because “ They [ the players ] are always your kids because we believe in developing relationships , so it ’ s beyond just the ball . At the end of the day , we are trying to accomplish one goal , and that is to make their lives better .”
In addition to her contributions to the team , Laquanda plays a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance for her spouse .
“ Every year is something special ,” she said . “ To be able to stand by my husband is always rewarding . To be able to help him and help push the vision that he has is always rewarding .”
By providing perspective and stability amidst the season ’ s chaos , she helps navigate the demands of the coaching profession . Prioritizing family time , she ensures that her spouse remains grounded and fulfilled personally and professionally . Felton stresses a focus on the children and the importance of being flexible in the world of coaching that may bring challenges , but it also brings the opportunity to help others .
“ My kids are resilient and know that in this world , we can ’ t be selfish . It ’ s not about us . It ’ s about others . With a successful coach , there will come good seasons and bad seasons . Those are the times , the good and the bad , that make you a successful coach and a successful family in the coaching world ,” said Laquanda .
While coaches and athletes often receive accolades and recognition , the coach ’ s wife is the unsung hero behind the scenes . Casey Page , wife of Lowndes High School Head Baseball Coach Ryan Page , knew the coaching life would be busy and that her husband wouldn ’ t be home a lot , but it was still an adjustment , albeit a rewarding one .
“ I didn ’ t realize just how often he wouldn ’ t be home , especially during the season ,” she said . “ I did not realize what an impact it would have , not just on our child ’ s life but on so many other lives . It ’ s an important job , but you do not realize how important it is until you see the work that goes into it .”
Casey , like Laquanda , values the bonds that she forms with the students and their families .
“ I know those kids ; they really do become part of your family . No matter if I have a kid playing , they are a part of your family ,” she said . “ They are our boys . We [ coaches ’ families and players ’ families ] watch the boys come together , and I think that helps us mold and helps us understand the true team concept .”
A coach ’ s wife in sports cannot be overstated . Her role transcends the sidelines , embodying the true spirit of teamwork , sacrifice , and unconditional support through good seasons and bad . Casey relies on her close family and coaching friends to make the most of the baseball coaching life . She advises new-to-the-profession families to be “ patient and find a group of friends that will help support you and your family . It ’ s a family sport and a family endeavor .”
As communities and schools celebrate the achievements of coaches and athletes , it is important to honor the vital role played by these remarkable women in shaping the fabric of sportsmanship and camaraderie while embedding the programs they serve into their own families .
May 2024 | Valdosta Scene 25