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Mayor Sarno Letter to the Editor on the Retirement and Legacy of Coach William 'Shep' Shepard

There is much fanfare with former UMass hoop star Lou Roe coming on board to coach our Putnam Vocational Technical Academy team, which is fine, but just as much fanfare, if not more should be given to retiring coach William Shepard.

Having been in the stands and sidelines to watch and cheer on our student athletes, I cannot say enough about Coach Shepard – ‘Shep’.  His legacy will not only live on as being one of Springfield’s great all time coaches with multiple state DI Championships, but even more importantly, his legacy is strong in mentoring his/our young men in excelling not only on the court but off the court too. 

His dedicated and caring efforts have led to many of his/our young men going on to college and successful paths of life opportunities – ‘now that’s a legacy!’

I/we will miss his ‘look and scowl’ on the bench.  Coach Shep, my friend, I wish you and your family the best and big thank you.  Coach Lou Roe will have some big shoes to fill.

Respectfully,                                                                                                       

Domenic J Sarno

Mayor

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Page last updated:  Tuesday, March 1, 2022 01:32 pm