“It’s like I’ve told the freshman parents every year: ‘Don’t blink your eyes because they’ll be seniors before you know it,’” Tidwell said during a ceremony in his honor at the school’s cafeteria.
“Now I’ve blinked my eyes and 32 years have gone by, and it’s been a heck of a run. I’ve enjoyed it. Thank you very much.”
Tidwell, who will continue teaching classes, resigned his position as head baseball coach last week after a 32-year career - 22 in Belton - and 577 victories, 450 of which came with the Tigers.
He guided Belton to 10 district titles, 18 playoff appearances in the last 20 years and the 1994 Class 4A state championship. But those who spoke Wednesday talked more about the way Tidwell did things than about the results his teams posted.
“We’re here to honor a legend who has served this school, its students and this community for many years,” school board president Randy Pittenger said. “People always talk about the wins and the state championship, but it was his character development in students that is most appreciated.
“That’s the legacy he leaves. He made Belton a better place by raising up young men in an honorable way.”
Fighting back tears - somewhat unsuccessfully - for much of the ceremony, Tidwell admitted that it was the players who kept him around.
“In the last week, I’ve got over at least 100 calls, letters and e-mails saying thank you,” Tidwell said. “If I’ve helped just one kid, then that’s something, and hopefully I’ve helped a lot more. Doing that is more important than the wins.”
Dr. Vivian Baker, Belton ISD superintendent, also thanked Tidwell, and a plaque commemorating his accomplishments was presented by athletic director Rodney Southern.
Tidwell received a standing ovation when he finished speaking, then hugged his wife of 32 years, Lesa.
He also gave a hint of his future plans.
“I’ve been coaching for 32 years, and that’s a long time,” he said. “All of my buddies are already on the golf course constantly.
“And I’ve been watching other people’s kids play for a long time. It’s time for us to go watch our own."
edrennan@temple-telegram.com
