I want to take a few minutes to share some thoughts with you about this past football season and, more importantly, next season. First of all, I  hope your surgery went well and that you are well on your way to a full recovery. I know we didn’t have as good a year as we would have liked to, but I know you put forth a sincere effort. I am very excited about our team next year, I think we will have one of the best teams we’ve had at La Jolla since I have been here. In particular, I think we will have another strong defense. The one area that we will need to solidify is defensive back.

Mike, I am going to need you to be our free safety. You showed a lot of ability last year but, unfortunately, injuries kept me from using you as much as I would have liked to. This is why your off-season training is going to be so important. We will need your production and leadership on both sides of the line of scrimmage. Believe me, we will be better on offense next year…even if I have to suit up and play myself.

I am going to do something different this year. I have chosen ten players who I am going to be working with closely. You are one of the ten. You are going to be part of a secret society within a secret society. I am going to call you guys the “Star Chamber.” Don’t ask me who the other nine are and don’t tell anyone about this letter. Also, don’t ask any of your teammates if they received a letter too. In time, you will meet the other nine.

You will be hearing from me again. Mike, I need your leadership and this means no surprises like the one I received last year before our first game. Ok? If you need anything you can call me at 459-4211 (Muirlands), 281-5092 (Home) or leave a message on my school voice mail (456-7648 Ext.1520). Remember, you are a member of the Star Chamber. Don’t tell anyone, not even Coach Ponsford!