Winning Pop Warner Coach Thomas honored as Volunteer of the Year

FALLBROOK- What does it take to be Fallbrook Pop Warner’s Volunteer of the Year? Ask Mark Thomas, Head Coach of the Jr. Pee Wee Division II football team the Tribe. Thomas was recently honored, among other Palomar Conference winners, at an awards ceremony held at the Hall of Champions at Balboa Park.

“Coaching a successful team is hard work and, if you knew how much work this was, you wouldn’t volunteer,” said Palomar Conference Commissioner Debbie Winters. Thomas was nominated for this honor because he taught his players to succeed in all aspects of their lives, focusing on good grades, good citizenship, supporting and encouraging other members of the team, healthy eating, good hygiene, and polite behavior.

For instance, Thomas frequently talked to the team about the importance of good grades and how he wants to see groups of Tribe members reading together at recess. He frequently visited the schools to have a presence, to check up on the players and to reinforce to them that school is important.

His influence works. Thomas’ coaching staff and players were complimented by other teams for displaying respect, great attitudes and excellent sportsmanship on and off the field.

In addition, many of the Tribe parents commented throughout the season that Thomas’ lecturing had improved their son’s behavior in many ways.

His philosophy works. Thomas also tells his players that if they give 110% every play, every down, every second in life, that good things will come to them. As evidence of such, Thomas’ Jr. Pee Wee Tribe posted an 11-0 record during the season and in post-season play, defeated the San Marcos Bishops to win the Palomar Conference Championship. The last Conference Championship title for any Fallbrook Pop Warner team was earned over 10 years ago. Palomar Conference includes Associations from Carlsbad, Escondido, Fallbrook, Menifee, Temecula, Murrieta, Oceanside, Poway, Ramona, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, San Dieguito, San Marcos, Torrey Pines, Valley Center and Vista. Thomas’ dedication and leadership in the Fallbrook football community is an asset and lays the foundation for future football successes.