Extra Miler Column - April 2026

By Carol A. Dawson

Coach Thomas exemplifies the community volunteer coach

Watching children and grandchildren play sports on community and school teams is a rite of passage for many and if we watch carefully, we see much more than just the score. We see the heartfelt efforts by the children, friendships being formed, and the meaningful moments of individual and team success. These things remain with children long after the score is recorded and the winner is proclaimed.

Nothing happens without a coach. Before the first pitch or whistle blows, volunteer coaches show up giving their time, energy and above all…patience. There are millions of individuals across the country who voluntarily step into coaching positions to work, sweat, and celebrate with optimistic eyed children. Most also have full time jobs outside of coaching.

I first met Coach Charles Thomas as he coached two of my grandson’s basketball teams. Coach Thomas was working with a community team while also coaching an elementary school team, all the while running a Cleaning and Services business. He holds individual practices for each team, demanding considerable time from his business and family.

Coach Thomas works with the children during every sporting season, coaching baseball, basketball, and football teams. When asked why he spends so much of his time coaching, he said, “Honestly, I love it; I get a kick out of seeing children begin a sport and then watching their growth over the years.”  He added, “It is enjoyable to watch those moments when they “click,” and the sport starts to make sense.”

Coach Thomas spoke of the influence of his parents. “My Mom and Dad were and still are major influences and my biggest supporters in all I do. I also had coaches along the way that were influential in my life. I want to make that same sort of positive impact on the young people I work with.”

When asked how many hours a week he spends coaching, Coach Thomas responded, “Too many o count, but I wouldn’t change anything. My best friends are kids I met playing sports and I want that for my son and his teammates.” 

Thomas started coaching when his oldest son, Caleb, was in third grade. Today, he coaches his younger son Kyrie, age 9, with Caleb, now 22, occasionally joining in as an assistant coach.

When asked what he gets from volunteering, Coach Thomas explained, “These ball players keep me going and they keep me young. I enjoy encouraging team spirit and friendships and hopefully some will play long enough to get college scholarships. Knowing I could have played a part in something like that puts a smile on my face.” 

Coach Thomas believes all children should try sports; if one doesn’t work for them, try another one. He explained, “They learn so much more than just that sport. They learn to work with others as a team, and they also learn responsibility and perseverance.”

When asked to describe the worst part about coaching, I fully expected Coach Thomas to say…the parents; however, he stated, “The referees and umpires. They can be so frustrating at times.” Thomas added, “But the best part about being a coach is being a role model and a person the children can come to when they need someone. I have had some young men who I coached and are now playing college sports, contact me just to check in on ole’ Coach Charles. That warms my heart more than they will ever know.”

Coach Thomas’ favorite quote is, “How you do anything is how you do everything.” He explained, “If you work hard in the classroom, then I know I can depend on you to work hard on the court or field.”

Coach Thomas encourages others to step in and help with youth sports, even if they can’t be the head coach. Every team needs assistants and the leagues need support staff. Everyone involved in sports can leave a positive impression on our youth.

Seasons pass, but the presence of an inspirational coach will remain with a child, woven into their confidence, character, and memories. A coach gives his/her time because they understand these days on the court or field can make a significance difference for a child. Their encouragement and steady presence are pressed into our children’s lives and memories, and if we pay attention, we realize how all of this also impacts those of us watching from the stands.

To Coach Charles Thomas and all coaches who give so much, often without recognition, thank you for being part of our children’s development and for being Southern Indiana Extra Milers. 

​Extra Miler Current Column

After a tournament win, the Jeffersonville 3rd grade feeder team celebrate:  Left to right:  Coach Charles Thomas, DJ Dawson, Makai Jordan, Liam Skinner, Diondre Williams, Kyrie Thomas, Tripp Estes, Carter Klacamp, Jahmir Johnson. Not pictured: Chris (C2) Laird