Newest Hall of Fame Coach

David Downing received one of the highest honors for a Coach this summer in Lincoln, Nebraska when he was inducted into the Coaches Hall of Fame for USA Roller Sports. David's nomination to the Hall of Fame mentions not only his success as a coach, but his willingness to promote the sport in the nitty gritty, roll-up-your-sleeves kind of work.

The nomination stated "Downing has coached multiple World Speed Team members and is Vice-Chairman of the Southern Regional Speed Coaches Association. In 2003 his J.O. club received the High Point Award at Nationals. His overall speed club is currently the largest in the United States. He has acted as speaker on the development of clubs at the 2003 Congress in Las Vegas"

But that statement doesn't tell it all. In 2000, David saw the need to begin a grassroots effort to give beginning skaters a taste of competition, while at the same time keeping the cost of travel and meet fees reasonable. He got together with some other coaches and decided to start the NTF beginner's league. This league hosts Sunday morning "practice" competitions and the skaters can skate as many races as they want to for $25. From a beginning group of about 50 skaters, the NTF meets have reached a high of 160.

In addition to the league meets, David has been a tireless volunteer at other events, including the US10K, Regionals and Nationals. He often comes early to set up and stays late to help tear down. You can also find him at Wal-Mart or Home Depot picking up supplies for the referees or to help run outdoor events.

In the minds of his skaters, however, nothing can beat his individual attention and his willingness to help anyone, even if they are not a member of his team. David welcomes visitors and we regularily get skaters from overseas and around the country dropping in to practice with the team and to pick up a few tips from David. He is never stingy with his analysis of your skating technique and is ever ready to help all skaters, no matter their skill level. You can tell that it is the love of skating that keeps him doing it. And, just perhaps, its the skaters that keep him young, too!

Congratulations, David!! We have always known you were the best, but now you join the 'best of the best' at the Coaches Hall of Fame. And No, this does NOT mean that now you can retire!