Stairway To Success

As the Glasgow Scottie track and field team continues to practice in preparation for their first meet this weekend, a familiar face could be seen walking around the field.

John LaBonty.

LaBonty, less than two weeks removed from a procedure he underwent to have a kidney removed, was once again roaming the track field at Glasgow High School, visiting with his team giving them instruction during the practice.

LaBonty pointed out that he still has a long recovery ahead of him, but said he felt it was time to try to get back out there with his kids.

"I come and coach a little bit when I have the energy," LaBonty said. "The rest of the time, I'm usually napping."

LaBonty said that after his body has heeled fully from the operation, he will need to undergo seven months of treatment for his condition which he explained he didn't want to dive head first into all of the details.

LaBonty expressed his gratitude to the community and how they have rallied behind him during this difficult time.

Before the sudden need for his operation, LaBonty had made it known to those close to him that this would be his final season as head coach for Glasgow track and field and he said that is still the case.

LaBonty said that as he gains more strength, he wants to be able to go out to practices as much as he can. He was choking back tears as he thought about coming back to see his team this season from his operation.

"What kind of words do you use to describe that?" LaBonty asked rhetorically. "It's great for me, it's great for my heart to do this. Teaching is a great profession and coaching is the frosting on the cake," said LaBonty with tears building in his eyes.

LaBonty reflected back on his time as a teacher and coach and explained what the greatest gift to him was during his career.

"Just to know that you've contributed in some way to a young life is amazing," LaBonty said. "You might not know what you did right away, but with this situation, and all the calls and well wishes I've received from young people that I've coached over the years, it makes you feel good."

Glasgow opens their season this Saturday as they host the Glasgow Invitational.