Altmeyer deserves recognition

It was with a heavy heart that I received the news that Steve Altmeyer (will no longer be) the head coach for the Valley Christian Panthers. I have never met a man that has more integrity. He is truly a man that “Walks the Talk.”

There are people who are excellent coaches, and there are those who have devoted their lives to the development of our sons’ minds through teaching. If we look hard enough, we will find these men of God who have the ability to reach our high school sons with spiritual truth. Steve has their special gift to reach out to young men through the sport of basketball and develop their spirit, mind and body. I would describe him as a tough coach with the concern of a loving father. The team learns not only how to play the game of basketball well, but they learn what it takes to have integrity in the game of life … by example.

Prayer, fairness and honesty on the court are not just “pretend” virtues, but the only acceptable way to play on the Panthers. Did he work the kids hard? You bet. Did he seem unreasonable at times? I am sure every young man had those feelings at some point. Steve tried to strengthen and develop every one of them in whatever way he thought would work. A truly dedicated man, willing to go that extra mile to help our sons.

Thanks Steve. You deserve recognition and accolades, not censure.

Richard Barreiro

Spokane Valley