IMA SPORTS

High school coaches often say their jobs are about more than just winning and losing — it’s about helping their players become responsible men and women.

For the Maumee football and boys basketball programs, those words are turning into action. Over the past two weekends, members of both teams volunteered at the Grace Community Center in Toledo’s Old West End to help create a community garden.

Panthers football coach Evan Karchner was connected with Maumee graduate and Distinguished Alumnus Award winner Bryce Harbaugh, who serves as board chair at Grace. The project aligned with the values he’s trying to instill in his players — giving back, building something that lasts and being present in communities that need support.

“We saw it as a great opportunity for our team leaders to step up and serve in a hands-on, meaningful way,” Karchner said.

Boys basketball coach T.J. Gillespie was connected to Harbaugh through Clint Tolbert, pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Maumee. Gillespie had previously expressed interest in finding ways for his program to serve the community.

This won’t be the only volunteer work for either program. The football team helps at various events in Uptown Maumee through the Maumee Uptown Business Association and takes part in school district activities such as youth camps. The basketball team plans to visit the Toledo Humane Society this winter to donate blankets for animals.

Both coaches said community opportunities like these are crucial for their teams — showing players that life is bigger than sports or the small world they know.

“We talk a lot in our program about building men of character, and being active in the community is a huge part of that,” Karchner said. “When our players show up and serve, they start to understand the impact they can have on others. It teaches humility, empathy and leadership traits that matter long after their playing days are over.”

Gillespie echoed that message.

“It’s a reminder of how blessed we are to be in the position to help,” Gillespie said. “Being a part of the Maumee basketball program is bigger than just basketball, and this opportunity demonstrated how our future leaders will be great young men.”

Some players told Gillespie they noticed the Grace Center’s neighborhood looked different from what they were used to seeing, and they felt thankful for the lives they lead. That perspective, both coaches said, is the point of service.

“They’re starting to understand that leadership doesn’t just mean calling plays or making tackles,” Karchner said. “It means showing up, listening and helping where help is needed. And when that light bulb goes on, you can see the growth happening in real time.”

Photo courtesy of Pride of the Panthers
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