EDITORS NOTE Goodbye and thank you are two phrases that can be hard to say. But for one group of Father Marquette Catholic Academy parents and students, it is critical to thank two men who were inspirational in the lives of many FMCA students and athletes. Below is their statement:

We salute Coach Brian Balmes and his father, Dan Balmes, for all their hard work and dedication to Father Marquette Catholic Academy. From years of basketball and athletic leadership to painting and building improvements, we salute you both. The FMCA families appreciate both of you for your service.

Brian’s long coaching career included 283 games with 120 wins, 7 championship appearances. 2 championship wins and countless practice hours. Brian has coached 24 teams, girls and boys. 17 of those teams were at FMCA. The last 7 years included athletic director at Fr. Marquette as well. Brian transformed the program from nothing to a flourishing program for all the kids to enjoy as well as competitive achievements. His career began in 1994 at Father Marquette, then on to Graveraet Middle School and several all-star teams before returning to FMCA in 2015. His impact will be missed not only on the basketball court, but in the way he treated players and their families. He valued the students as individuals, not just players on the team. Many former players have seen Brian as a mentor as well as a coach. His outreach to the homeschool community was a unique endeavor. Understanding that the health of the basketball program meant reaching out to them, he added players and their families to activities, and achieved harmony within the whole sports program.

When Brian was asked about his coaching legacy he said, “I felt a strong coach was one who values a team member as a person. Creating bonds with players and families was something for which I am proud. Teaching values of morality, continuity, teamwork, and respect were always my highest goals, along with encouraging players to give their best. When I took over the program at FMCA, it was in the worst condition. To leave the program at this time in much better shape fills my heart with joy.”

When asked about his father’s help with improvements to the building, Brian said, “I am really proud of the work my dad and I did painting and general building improvements. When you see dark blue in the building, I painted every single bit of that. My dad spent hundreds of hours painting for nothing more than a smile, with the gym being our particular project – painting walls and varnishing the floor. Others helped us and we share your gratitude with them. Just to know that the kids are enjoying the building and the gym is thanks enough.”

“We greatly appreciated that our son could participate on Father Marquette’s Basketball team; we especially appreciated Coach Balmes’ emphasis on not only the sport, but also his instilling of good sports and ethical conduct, teamwork, and the value of each team member.” (Laura Farwell, homeschool parent)

” Brian has coached three of our girls in basketball. He is very enthusiastic and puts his whole heart into his teams. He always looks out for the best interest of his players. Our family has enjoyed a wonderful friendship with him and his family over the years. They will be missed this basketball season.” (The Rowe family)

With gratitude we say, Coach Brian and Dan, God bless you for all that you have done for us.

Sincerely,

Bennett Connors, DeDan Davenport, Edwards Ellenbaas, Farwell Geary, Heslip Lynott McCarthy McClain, Petry Verbadge Juna