How Do You Want to Leave Your Impression?

Last night was a bittersweet moment. As most of you know have been the Varsity Dance Coach of the Hillsboro Hawkettes for the past 10 years. I recently resigned from my position to focus on me and I must admit, it was the hardest decision I have EVER made. I gave my heart and soul to every girl and the program for the last 10 years of my life. Last night they had a SURPRISE reunion for me with my current dancers, alumni, my best friends, co-workers and parents. I was a beautiful occasion and a night of celebration. I honestly have been blessed with the most caring and considerate "pom moms" and dancers. They are all one of a kind.

What I realized when I was listening to all of the girls speak about memories, their experiences or "roasting" Coach Leigh, is that, they didn't care as much about dance as they did LIFE. They all spoke about life lessons that they will take with them, funny sayings that they will never forget and all of the advise that I had given them over the years. No one talked about trophies we've won, competitions that we dominated or where we placed at State. It was all about LIFE and becoming better humans.

It made me start reflecting on the HUGE impact that I've have over hundreds of young women over the past 10 years. The scary part is that they DON'T forget....even when you REALLY want them to! The awesome part is, the positive lasting impression that you get to leave with so many young women to take into the world one day and hopefully pass it along to others.

I guess what I am trying to verbalize, is what impression do YOU want to make in your life and the lives of so many others? I never really sat down and thought about it. The way that I coached them and the way I teach is just very natural and in the moment. I never plan out what I am going to say to them, I just address what is in front of us and more forward.

My heart was so full with love last night, listening to their words and reflections. Although the speeches were supposed to be about me, I couldn't help but think about all of the impressions that they had made on me. They all pushed me to love more, laugh often, and embrace the moment. They loved and accepted me for me and never questioned it. They supported all of my outlandish ideas and never strayed. They trusted my leadership and were dedicated to success. They made me a better person everyday and I had the most special job on the planet.....calling myself their coach! I am so overcome with joy and happiness reflecting on last night and the past 10 years.

Here are some comments from last night:

"Coach Leigh, you will always be in my heart"- Tara "T-Mabs" Mayberry 2014-2015
"Date em all"- Coach Leigh on dating advise
"Last time, best time" - Whenever we were only supposed to do the dance once more, and coach                                                would make us do it waaaaaaaay more than one time
"You believed in me when I didn't believe in myself"- Somer Grahm 2014-2015
"You have impacted my entire life, more than I can explain"- Tia Frauenfelder 2013-2014
"You are the most energetic, innovating, and inspiring person I know"- Kaylee Orchard 2012-2013
"You not only taught me how to be a dancer, but a young lady"- Heather Jeude 2012-2013
"You've taught me more that any other human being on the planet"-Rachel "RB" Becker 2014-2015
"You helped me grow and I use your words of wisdom to go far after graduation"- Sara Jo 2013-2014
"You made such a big impact on my life"- Tori Spooner 2015/Freshman
"All of your talents that you share with everyone makes all of us better people"- Laura Becker/Parent
"I don't know where I would be today without you"- Tara "T-Mabs" Mayberry 2014-2015
"You are my role-model and I will forever look up to you"- Lexi "LB" Baker 2014-2015
"I feel so confident and strong on a daily basis and always try to be positive and live in the moment because of what you have taught me"- Lexie Hassell (Hawkette of the Year 2014-2015)


 I have the belief that life is short, so try and enjoy every moment.  Make every moment count. Know that there is a purpose and try to embrace it at all costs. Be the BEST YOU, because that is a beautiful gift to all of us.

Always ask yourself, "What impression am I leaving behind in this beautiful world?"


Coach Leigh
2005-2015