Jefferson’s of Opelika is pleased to announce that Justin Skates has been named Jefferson’s Opelika Coach of the Year. Skates coaches football for the Beauregard Youth Football Association, and has been coaching for two years. Skates stated that he began coaching 6 & Under football to give back to his community.
Coach Skates was chosen from a highly competitive pool of nominations submitted by athletes and community members. The contest, launched in honor of National Coach’s Day on Oct. 6, serves to recognize one of Opelika’s many deserving coaches. Jefferson’s selected Skates as the Opelika Coach of the Year for his deep investment in his players both as athletes and people.
“Coach Skates’ nominators spoke of the encouraging, positive environment Skates has created,” said franchisee Jeff Moulton. “His passion and work ethic are unmatched, and he’s incredibly committed to making sure his kids learn all the life lessons that sports have to offer, from determination to sportsmanship to integrity. We’re honored to recognize him for his dedication.”
Skates will receive a $500 gift card to Jefferson’s, and his achievement will be commemorated with a “Jefferson’s Coach of the Year” plaque that will be displayed in the Opelika Jefferson’s.
“I want to inspire these boys and help mentor them beyond just the football field,” Skates said in a statement. “[One of my favorite memories as a coach] was seeing the look on my players’ faces when they realized all the hard work and good sportsmanship won them the championship.”
Last year was the launch of the Coach of the Year program, with Bryan Moore, football coach for Opelika High School, selected as the first-ever Opelika Coach of the Year.Â
The Jefferson’s Coach of the Year award was open to coaches of any sport working with athletes of any age. Coaches could be nominated by athletes, parents and guardians of athletes, school officials, or other community members.Â