There’s much to be said about a good supervisor. Everyone always wants to be mentored and shown how to grow and improve as an individual. Dwayne “Coach” Malloy, did just that for me. 

From the second I started my job, he was the Jedi master and I was the Padawan. Every day, a lesson learned. He was both a coach in the business world and a coach on the football field for his boys. He knew how to turn the small cat inside of you into the tiger ready for action. 

When I first met him I was gun shy. I had always been a charismatic person but I lost my way after a few incidents in my life and couldn’t quite come back from it. Dwayne was up to the challenge. He knew what it would take to bring the animal out of me and make me become the warrior I am today. Because as Thor says, “That’s what heroes do.” Dwayne knows how to bring the best out of people, through coaching, leadership, and mentoring. 

One of my fondest memories of our friendship was us just having a porch hangout at his house. We discussed my favorite topics, the mysteries of the universe and what is in store for us all. There’s something special about watching the stars and talking about the great unknown. It’s cliche yes, but it’s also beautiful. And when you’re beside your coach, it feels like anything’s possible. 

Not to mention, a great leader fights for his teammates. He would always be willing to put his neck out for his players, even if it got him in trouble, he didn’t give a fuck. It’s a noble pursuit, and something I stand by as well. I will always look out for my people, so to have that reciprocated is extra special.

Dwayne, I just wanted to personally thank you for always watching out for me. You’re the mentor that I’ve been seeking for since I was a kid. And although I’m still not a Jedi master, I hope to one day learn the force as well as you have.