On Aug. 5, George Thole popular coach, teacher, player and Board Member, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the age of 86. This news hit the Stillwater community hard, as Thole’s name is one of the first people think of when they hear the words “Ponies Football.” He was an extraordinary person and coach, bringing the ponies to four state wins, 12 section titles and 13 conference titles from 1971 to 2000. But more important than his wins were the lessons he taught the people around him. His talents as a coach and a person remain with people even today, more than 20 years after the end of his coaching career.

Thole was best known for his intense coaching style. Practices were demanding, but overall, he just wanted what was best for his players. “He was really competitive, and he was probably the ultimate motivator,” Kevin Klancher, social studies teacher and former football player, explained. “He was demanding, he was tough, but he always built you up.” Thole ensured that, regardless of what happened during a game or at practice, his players would leave feeling valued.

One of Thole’s main lessons was that a person should never feel ashamed of winning and that no matter what, you must try your best. “His famous line is, if you go to the doctor, you don’t want somebody who finished last in Med school,” Klancher said. Thole believed that if you wanted to succeed, you can’t be afraid to be better than other people. Klancher added that Thole believed that you want to be the best at what you do.

Even after he retired from being a gym teacher and football coach, Thole remained an active member of the community. He was even a member of the school board for two years. “I would see him at basketball games and basically all Stillwater sports,” Klancher said when asked if he had remained in contact with Thole.

Thole greatly impacted Ponies football, and not only is his name brought up at practice, but his ideas and values can still be seen on the sidelines. “LaBore has talked about him a lot this year,” junior Owen Stangl said. He also added that thanks to values like Thole’s, the team “feels like one big family.”

“His passing has made his legacy more present,” head coach Beau LaBore said, adding, “It is likely that most current coaches have learned something from George Thole.”

“Coaches can impact a team and the game, but the players have the biggest impact on the success of the season,” LaBore explained.

Thole’s legacy of having a team of great friends and future leaders is evident today, particularly in the relationship between the players and coaches. Coaches work hard, and players work harder, but by the end of the day, everyone leaves feeling like they have accomplished something. Thole will be remembered for his success, but also as the man who changed Stillwater football forever.