Coach Simpson started at North Port High School as a volunteer in 2007. After four year's as the Bobcats head coach he has accepted a position as the Head Cross Country/Triathlon and Assistant Track and Field coach at Webber International University in Babson Park. Simpson says leaving the high school level to make this jump was one of the hardest decisions he's ever had to make.
"Honestly, I think this was one of the toughest decisions that I have had to make. I will tell you that this has been one of the most "EMOTIONAL" weeks that I’ve ever had. You form a bond with these athletes when you spend so much time with them. You practically become a part of their family. I will miss them dearly. I told them that they will always have a place in my heart. Coach Phu will be taking over the reigns and I have every bit of confidence that he will continue building upon the tradition we started together in ’08."
Coach Simpson was instrumental in building the North Port Invitational into one of the largest meets in the state. Last year, 52 teams attended and this year they are hoping for closer to sixty schools! He says the meet will continue just as they have always planned.
"I have no doubt Coach Phu will be able to keep that meet at where it’s at today. By no means will it be easy but we started that meet together in 2008 when it was only nine schools. I’m very proud to say that it maxed out at 60 this year and that had always been a vision since the start."
The trip from North Port to Babson Park is just under two hours. Simpson describes himself as a pretty intesne guy and believes the the transition from high school to college won't be an issue for him. He says it will be important to instill trust in the young athletes early. He b
"I will continue doing the same that I have done at the high school level. While at the high school level I surrounded myself with some pretty amazing coaches. I don’t feel I need to change as a coach at the next level at all. I need to be me and do what I do. I suppose I can say that’s got me this far why change right? I guess we will see. All I can do is give it my best shot and take all that I have learned in my life and try to be a positive influence in their lives in all that they do athletically, academically. and just in general."
Thank You Note From Coach Simpson:
"I will miss all the relationships that I’ve made over the last 8 years with all the families, their kids and all the faculty that have supported me since my start at North port High School. I would also like to thank Coach Phu , Coach Tony Miller and Coach Ryan Lavelle our athletic director. Without them putting their trust in some strange dad in the stands talking about running I wouldn’t be here today. I’m deeply indebted to them and I thank them from the bottom of my heart. You all are GREAT men and role models. Keep doing what you do and never forget the impact that you have on people around you not just the athletes. I love you all and thank you."
More Coverage
- North Port Team Page
- Coach Simpson Hiring Article (Via Webber Athletics)