Sun, Fun and the Sounds of Summer Flag Football

The Vikings Brody Bavaro completing the pass to Deagan Thomson

As the Brookings Football Association’s 2021 summer flag football program begins to wind down, Coach Bavaro has encouraged his coaches to share their experiences with the community.

The Chiefs Jacy Brewer running for extra yards.
Coach Bryan Holmes

This week, Bryan Holmes, another returning coach from previous years, shared his thoughts with the Compass, his approach to teaching the game, and what he hopes he and the kids take away from the season.

Falcon defenders Oscar White and Brayden Bavaro look on as the Chargers Mason Duncan breaks away.

“Coaching kids to me is so much more than just winning games,” coach Holmes told the Compass. I have been coaching multiple sports for many years now, and one of the things I’ve grown to enjoy watching over the years is the looks on their faces after they pull out a “W” in a close match-up.”

The Buccaneers Max Petrie tries to elude Blake Burks for extra yards.

“That being said,” he continued, “I see coaching as a way to reach these kids, and in a small way, help them prepare them for their futures. I try to be a fun coach. I want these kids to have a blast while they are out there, that’s ultimately the most important thing to me.”

Grady Maylin reaching for the completion.

“I am a little tougher on the older groups of kids, hammering home the importance of teamwork and leadership. I always try to explain to kids that the leadership they show on the field will carry on into their adult lives.”

The Chiefs Graesyn Holmes drops back for the pass.

“Watching the kids put it all together and seeing it “Click” is a feeling that will never get old for me. Even if it is only one play you will see me running down the sidelines like a maniac cheering for them like they just won the biggest game of the year.”

The Titans runner Aiden Holmes trying split Seahawk defenders Owen Austin and Carver Overlin.

“The greatest takeaway of coaching for me is watching these kids grow in our community year after year. Watching them get better and putting all of the years together to become well rounded athletes. They are going to be the future of our community and the lessons we teach them on the field now will reflect in their lives later.”  

– Coach Bryan Holmes