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Coach Jack

Minarets basketball player has been inspiration to many

Pete Reardon

(Updated: Thursday, January 26, 2012, 4:26 PM)

His name is Jack Roache, or "Coach Jack" as the players sometimes refer to him. He is a freshman at Minarets High School, a member of Bill Samuelson's marching band and a guard for the Mustangs junior varsity basketball team ... but more importantly he is 'special' -- Jack has Asperger Syndrome.

Asperger's (AS) is a developmental disorder that is characterized by several aspects, some of which include, repetitive routines or rituals, problems with non verbal communication, social and emotional issues which sometimes make it hard to interact successfully with peers. Some parents may notice symptoms by a child's third birthday while others may show signs as early as infancy. Children with AS usually have a history of developmental delays in motor skills such as pedaling a bike, catching a ball or climbing outdoor playing equipment.

Although diagnosed mainly in children, AS is being increasingly diagnosed in adults who seek medical help for mental health conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Picking up stakes

His parents James and Tabatha relocated their family from Antelope Valley to Coarsegold when Jack and his sister, Emily, were in grade school. James had grown up visiting Yosemite throughout his childhood years and decided, after the real estate market took a downward slide, Jack persuaded the family to pack up everything and move near the place he loved as a youth.

Tabatha, a stickler for grades (Jack maintains a 3.5 G.P.A.), home schooled her children through California Virtual Academy, a K-12 Charter School. They enrolled both their children at Coarsegold Elementary where they were introduced to Julie Sconce, a special education teacher who had a great impact on Jack's adjustment to his new school and surroundings.

Jack's parents credit Sconce with helping Jack become comfortable in his new school and environment, something that AS children often struggle with. He started playing piano five years ago, and has since taken up drums. He was placed in the beginner class for band but by the second semester was moved to advanced.

"Our former school system would not have allowed Jack the opportunities he has had at Coarsegold Elementary and Minarets High School," said James. "It is so different up here ... the teachers really care for the kids," added Tabatha.

Discovering the athlete within

It started with skiing -- Jack enjoyed skiing through the Mountain Area Ski School program, which provides elementary students the opportunity to ski at Yosemite's Badger Pass, providing they maintain school attendance and good grades.

Jack became interested in basketball after befriending Minarets sophomore Bo Campbell, a talented hoops player in his own right, he would shoot around with Jack at lunch and encouraged him to go out for the team. Not only did he go out for the team, he soon became the heart and soul of the JV team.

Jack has played in most of the Mustangs basketball games. His coach informs the refs and the opponents coach that the team has a "special needs player" -- it is up to the opponent to play him how they wish. Most opponents have been gracious, as in the game against Yosemite's JV team, where the players backed off Jack and allowed him to shoot.

Jack's teammates take pride in watching out for him on and off the court, over zealous players that have stolen the ball from him have ignited the Mustangs to steal the ball and deny even a pass with their pressure defense following a steal. Many others have been met with a 'shame on you' foul at the other end of the court. The team has embraced "Coach Jack" and makes sure he is accompanied whenever the team travels. He has no problem finding a friend to share a meal with following a road game and always has to search out a large table to eat at to accommodate all his teammates requesting to eat with him.

Becoming a coach

Asperger Syndrome children gather enormous amounts of factual information about their favorite subjects. Hence, the nickname "Coach Jack," whenever the team is asked for input during half time or a time out, Jack is the first to offer his insight, 9 out of 10 times, the first year basketball player is spot on with his suggestions.

"Make your free throws," "play better defense," "rebound," are some of his commonly used phrases. It's obvious he listens to everything he is taught. At practice, he is one of the hardest working players on the court, never missing a team meeting or practice. He has missed one game this year, playing drums for his other team, the Minarets marching band in a parade in North Fork.

He began the season not able to reach the hoop from the three-point arch, but in practice he drains that same 3-pointer with consistency. His free throws and lay-ups have drastically improved. He is always in the mix, encouraging his teammates, and helps in pointing out areas of their game that need improvement, his comments are always positive and met with enthusiasm.

An inspiration to all

"Jack is really a great kid ... it's a joy seeing him working hard everyday at practice," said varsity team leader Joey Ramirez. "He's our inspiration and just seeing him out there helps us work harder."

"Jack epitomizes what all students should be ... he is sincere, enthusiastic and appreciative," said Mike Niehoff, school principle. "In the class, in band, or on the court, he is a real gentleman."

"The team is quick to point out when Jack hasn't been in the game and the minutes are winding down," said teammate Keenan Reardon. "The players work extra hard to get him a clear shot when he is on the court.

The shot

It came against Avenal on Friday, Jan. 13, and it would turn out to be Jacks special night. Special, not lucky, because he had worked hard for that night. In fact, it was a special night for all in attendance, one that will not be forgotten by many. The gym was packed, unlike most games, the first game started as school ended to accommodate the long two-hour ride home for Avenal.

With the Mustangs up by 20, it was Jack's time. The team had been working to get him in the scoring column all season, tonight he wouldn'' be denied.

Coming out of half time, he was directed to listen for the command, 'shot.' That seems to be one of the problems. Because Jack does know the game, he is always looking to find the open player, the best shot, in the paint, high percentage, just as he has been taught.

It was early in the third quarter when the ball was passed to a wide eyed, wide open Jack, behind the 3-point arch. The defense collapsed, and in a split second, Jack put up the shot with two defenders in his face.

It hit the glass, and banked in for a 3-points. The stands erupted with a feverish scream that could be heard on Highway 41. All in attendance jumped to their feet, those standing, jumped for the ceiling. The bench cleared as if he had hit a buzzer beater for a Sectional Title. Players hugged one another, high-five'd one another and paid tribute to their 'other coach.' As for Jack, he asked to sit awhile ... it had taken a bit out of him.

"Brought tears to my eyes," said his mother Tabatha. "I would tell him, the first time you make a basket, you will feel such elation, you'll try again and again."

The proud mother had questioned herself whether it was the right decision letting Jack join the team. She worried he might get hurt playing with other boys so experienced. How would he be treated? Could he handle the social interaction with the team? Then she saw the transition in her son with the other boys. He was one of the guys -- Not just during practice or games, but at the lunch, in the halls and in the media lounge.

Jack is not only one of the guys, he is "the guy." Jack has bridged the social gap. One of the most respected players on the team, he is welcome in students circles throughout the school. He has done what many with Aspergers only dream of doing. He is an example that with hard work and dedication a person can accomplish and overcome the seemingly impossible.

Thanks to many

Tabatha and James called Jack's grandfather that night and told him all about the 'big shot.' The shot that might have never happened if not for Sconce, who helped Jack when he first moved to Coarsegold. Matt Casey, the director of the ski school and the volunteers who helped can be a young man's life by giving him the courage to step out of his comfort zone. A fine young man, Bo Campbell, who forever changed Jack's life by showing him how to shoot a ball through a hoop. Coach Beau Campbell who welcomed him to play on the JV team. His many teammates and classmates that feel privileged to know him.

As for me, his coach, having coached multiple sports going on 12 years having won titles and trophies ... Jack's 3-point shot on Jan. 13 was the single greatest moment I have experienced on any football field, diamond or court. It is the reason some of us coach ... to make a difference in a young persons life. I feel blessed to have coached this "special" young man. I will remember that split second in time for the rest of my life -- just recalling it brings a lump to my throat.

Jack not only hit the big three, he scored one for all those that think "I can't do it." I will forever remind kids struggling of "Coach Jack," and how he has touched the hearts of each and every person he has come in contact with. He has brought many of us to tears as we watched him make his mark in all of our memories. Thank you Jack.