Chuck Bissell, Good Shepherd Rams:

Please accept this letter as Good Shepherd’s Nomination for consideration for the 2009 CFA HALL OF FAME.

In 1980, Chuck Bissell joined the Good Shepherd Rams Football program. His two sons, Chuck Jr. and Paul played and Chuck decided to coach to help out. And so began his long, dedicated youth football coaching career. And he is still coaching today.

Chuck came to Good Shepherd after a distinguished Army career, where he had achieved the rank of Sergeant. He also served his country in the Vietnam War. Certainly those young football players on Coach Bissell’s early teams were subjected to an Army leader’s tough regiment. One of the Midget coaches at the time was overheard saying, "Man, that guy’s really hard on those little kids!" Of course the players survived, and were better for it.

Chuck coached through many of the "lean" years at Good Shepherd, when the total number of players out for football did not exceed 40, and we could only field a Midget and Pony team. It was through those years and the scarcity of talent, that he developed a certain game plan for which he would become locally famous.

First, he decided that passing the football is not a good way to go. As he often says, "When you throw the ball, three things can happen, and two of them are bad!" He knew his undersized Rams could not keep up with faster, more athletic teams, so he devised an offense that basically consisted of one running play. And he ran it… and ran it… and ran it again! His teams became well-known for holding onto the ball for literally quarters of a game at a time. His best defense was to keep the opposing team’s offense off the field. At this point in time, folks starting calling Coach Bissell "Ground Chuck", after how his teams would run the ball and grind away the clock.

Through the over 25 years of coaching youth football at Good Shepherd (and a short 3-year stint at Trinity), Chuck has held many roles: head coach (all three levels), assistant coach, defensive coordinator, CFA team representative, assistant program coordinator. He has coached in numerous playoff and Super Bowl games. Winning the "big one" was finally achieved by the 2008 Pony team. Certainly that team’s success was aided by Coach Bissell’s watchful eye and timely advice from the press box.

One thing Chuck does not lack is an opinion or sound football advice. However, once his advice was not correctly interpreted. While coaching in a Pony game and the opposing team’s #68 was giving the Rams some trouble. Chuck called a time-out and made sure that the Ram’s guard, Patrick, knew he was to, at all costs, block #68 on the next play. To everyone’s surprise, Patrick threw a devastating block on one of his own teammates, who coincidentally wore #68. Chuck immediately pulled the player out of that game and wanted to know why he blocked his teammate. Patrick replied, "You said block #68. Their #68 was too fast, so I decided it was OK to block our #68." At least he got the number right, Coach!

The Rams hold Coach Bissell in the highest regard. He’s a football guy, who knows his stuff, and he has given so much to Good Shepherd and the CFA throughout the years. That is why we are honored to nominate Coach Chuck Bissell for induction into the 2009 CFA Hall of Fame!.

Sincerely,

The Good Shepherd RAMS Football Organization

Sam Rhoads, Boiling Sprngs Bengals:

The Boiling Springs Midget Football Corporation’s Board of Directors would like to nominate Sam Rhoads as their 2009 Hall of Fame candidate. The board strongly feels that Sam’s extensive background and dedication to this organization are very deserving of this distinguished honor.

Sam was involved in B.S.M.F.C. since 1989 alongside his father, Sam Rhoads Sr. and good friend, Rory Morrison. These individuals, along with others, are largely responsible for the startup and ongoing success and growth of this youth football organization. Sam’s journey began as the head coach for the pee wee squad. He graduated to the level of ponies where he was appointed head coach and remained there for ten years. In 1992, Sam joined the Board of Directors as the Vice President and served a two year term. He then obtained the title of President and held that position for one year. Following his term as President, he took the position of Director of Coaching and held that office from 1995-2005.

As a coach, Sam shared his knowledge and love of the game with his players. His enthusiasm and guidance earned the kind of respect that is lasting. As a guest speaker during his last B.S.M.F.C. banquet in 2005, Sam highlighted his years as a coach. He referred to memories and written appreciation that he had received from his past players. His passion for his players and the game was evident. The speech was indeed touching and memorable. In the end he encouraged his listeners to watch out for each other as they progress in their life’s journey. He referred to the inner circle of players and friends. He emphasized the importance of living a drug-free life and pulling friends back into the circle if they begin to stray. He always set a fine example for those around him.

As a board member, Sam fully embraced his responsibilities. He was always present during meetings and activities and strongly supported the board. It was a pleasure serving with him for he brought experience and humor to the board, yet he took the positions that he held very seriously.

The year following his resignation from coaching and the Board of Directors, Sam returned by volunteering as a smurf referee for all of the Bengal home games. As minor as that task may seem, he performed it with great pride.

Even though his physical presence is no longer, Sam’s dedication and knowledge through his many years of coaching and serving on the Board of Directors linger. It is our hope that you help us formally honor Sam for his loyalty of B.S.M.F.C. by appointing him into the 2009 C.F.A. Hall of Fame.

Sincerely,

The Boiling Springs Board of Directors