Most athletes will know how hard it is to balance a student-athlete lifestyle, but what about a teacher-coach? Mr. Laidlaw, a freshman social studies teacher at Clarkston Jr. High is also a coach for the Clarkston Varsity Football team. Mr Laidlaw has been a teacher in the Clarkston district for over five years and the football coach for just as long.
All teams and coaches will have an impact on a person even after their time on the team.
“My team will forever be a core memory in my life and got me to where I am today, but I will especially remember the healthy impact Mr. Laidlaw had on my life and the way he always made me feel I could do my best even when I didn’t believe that myself,” Class of 2024 CHS graduate Joshua Williams said.
On the field, Laidlaw makes it about putting in the work and effort, as well as working together and staying positive. He encourages his team to give it their all every day, and that mistakes are a minor setback that can lead to major comebacks.
“I hear the phrase ‘practice makes perfect,’ but there will always be room for improvement, so it’s better to think practice makes improvement,” Laidlaw said.
Laidlaw has not only had an impact on his players, but he’s also had an effect on his fellow coaches.
“He brings a new kind of perspective on things…he can connect with the kids in a way that carries the team differently while also helping us grow as coaches,” Coach Foltz said.
Laidlaw helps his team in numerous ways, from game day to practice to film, and he consistently knows how to help his team improve. He has been helping his players for years.
“The biggest motivation as a coach is probably to help my boys be the best versions of themselves, both on and off the field. Trying to help them be great football players, but even better people,” Laidlaw said
Mr. Laidlaw is known as a good teacher and football coach due to his energetic and passionate demeanor about what he does. Mr Laidlaw’s legacy on the Clarkston district will continue to build as he pursues coaching and teaching.
