I was more excited about this week’s guest than any other. His name is Mr. Tom Abadie. He is the man who first taught me the values of discipline, preparation, and teamwork. His way of coaching had a profound impact on me when I needed it most.

He started coaching our All-Star basketball team when I was 10 years old. As 11-year olds, he coached our team to a State Championship in Louisiana. When I was 12 years old, he coached us to a World Championship in 1993.

In the locker room after the Championship Game, Assistant Coach David Pope said to our team, “This may not mean much to you now, but someday you guys are really going to appreciate this [Championship].” God was he right.

Born in New Orleans, La., on December 15, 1948, “Coach Tom,” as I’ve always called him, grew up one of seven children. He attended Redemptorist High School, where he played basketball and baseball in the competitive New Orleans Catholic League.

As a senior, he signed to play centerfield at Nicholls State University (pictured)—I would sign to do the same 30 years later. His college coach was Raymond E. Didier, who he said was a disciplinarian but fair man. When I played ball at NSU, we played at Ray E. Didier Field, which is now affectionately known as “The Did.”

Tom is now retired. He invested diligently in his employer’s 401K plan while working in the oilfield for 43 years, including the last 15 years as a salesman for a New Orleans company. He and wife, Judy, still live in Thibodaux, LA. They enjoy traveling and spending time with their 6 grandchildren.