Mike Leach was a novel determine on the earth of school soccer, and his passing in 2022 on the age of 61 left a void that also feels vital at the moment. He had a approach of sharing his ideas and opinions that was each entertaining and insightful, and it is nice that his post-game interviews and press convention moments proceed to be shared on-line.
Lately, a clip resurfaced of Leach discussing his preferrred Thanksgiving plate, which included his tackle cooking. As he put it, “I at all times make the gravy, and I do make nice gravy. I am not a giant cook dinner man, and have not (ever) been. However I’ve made the gravy for many years.” It is attribute of Leach that he would have mastered the artwork of creating gravy, and it is one thing that he took pleasure in.
Leach additionally shared his ideas on what makes an ideal Thanksgiving plate, saying “Let’s have a look at, I at all times get chicken. A bit stuffing, not an excessive amount of. Numerous mashed potatoes. Gravy over every thing. Hopefully they’ve greens… they typically do not. Corn or inexperienced beans. By no means candy potatoes. And I like fruit pies higher than any of that pumpkin or apple stuff. (I like cranberry sauce), however only a fast little droplet of it. I am not gonna get carried away with that both.” His opinions on meals, like his opinions on soccer, have been at all times value listening to.
What set Leach other than different coaches was his means to attach with individuals past the X’s and O’s of the sport. He had a present for storytelling and sharing his ideas in a approach that was relatable and fascinating. It is a disgrace that he by no means obtained to convey his distinctive perspective to the world of sports activities commentary, however the time we had with him was actually precious.
As we rejoice Thanksgiving, it is value taking a second to understand the issues that make the vacation particular. For many individuals, it is a time to return along with household and mates, take pleasure in good meals, and watch some soccer. As Leach’s legacy exhibits, it is the little issues, like a well-made gravy, that may make all of the distinction.
To everybody celebrating Thanksgiving, I hope your day is crammed with good meals, good firm, and perhaps even some Mike Leach-level gravy. RIP Mike Leach.
