The groundwork was set before Dan Buehler joined the Due West Hoyas as a vice president two years ago. So the hard part was done.
All Buehler had to do was continue the program’s tradition in the North Georgia Youth Football League.
“This is such a successful program due to the previous administration in that it triggered the growth,” said Buehler, who has completed his term as VP. “People were talking about the program going back four or five years. When we took over, we didn’t have to change much. Everything has been so positive and the numbers continue to rise.”
How true that is.
Over the last five years, the Hoyas have seen a tremendous increase in the number of football players and cheerleaders. The number has spiked from about 200 to more than 500.
There are 17 different football teams ranging in age from 5-12. There are also six different groups for cheerleading squads also in the same age brackets.
“This area in Cobb County is growing so much that even with other options for kids, our numbers have increased,” Buehler said. “I mean, there are new high schools popping up all over the place and the whole area seems to be expanding. Even with other things going on, the kids join the Hoyas for football and cheerleading.”
Concessions and spirit ware are a big part of the financial puzzle for the program. With the help of many volunteers, the Hoyas are on the proper path.
“It’s a thankless job, running something like the concession stand,” Buehler said. “It’s not an easy thing to do. The people in the community have been gracious with their time and money to support the program.”
Buehler started out as a coach while his son played football. His ascension to VP was a natural progression.
“I get a lot of satisfaction from helping out,” Buehler said. “I started coaching my kid a while ago, and I wanted to help out more than just by standing on the sideline. It’s been a lot of fun for me.”
One person who has had a lot of fun with the Hoyas is J.L. Brooks. He’s a past president and longtime coach.
“He’s been involved for about nine or 10 years,” Buehler said. “He’s been very instrumental with the Hoyas and a true leader. Those who enter the program now are fortunate that he got things started. He’s such a great person.”
If the trend continues, Brooks will be seeing the fruits of his labor for many years to come.
--
Story courtesy of Red Line Editorial, Inc.