Waynesboro High School was blessed

Submitted
Published: May 6, 2008

While starting my daily routine of reading the morning newspaper I was overwhelmed with emotion to learn that a true Waynesboro High School legacy’s career was coming to a close (“End of an era,” May 6). I learn this after spending the day yesterday going to watch my daughter run in the first track meet held at Waynesboro High School in many years.
Yesterday was senior day and was topped off for me by a familiar yell from Coach Ed Driskill into the stands wanting to know if I could help out by judging one of the field events. “It won’t take you more than 10 to 15 minutes,” he said. A task that in my adult life I had done several times before and always enjoyed, but realized the better part of the day would be spent on the field. I know now how greatly missed this individual will be in the future and fortunate we all are to have the experience of this true leader.
Few people realize and grasp moments in their youth when they know someone truly unique is taking an interest and trying to guide them in the direction they should follow. I can speak from first-hand experience that Eddie Driskill helped sway a lot of my choices both athletically and academically in life. Choices and direction that took me from a typical teenager with some ambition as a freshman just wanting to finish high school to getting accepted to college at Christopher Newport to run track. A task that was not in any future plans for me until my senior year. He is a coach, mentor, leader and guidance counselor all rolled up into a genuine person who to this day is considered a true friend.
I was fortunate enough to have competed eight seasons with Driskill as my coach. To this day in my life they are still some of the best and most unforgettable memories I have.
I wish him the very best and hope that only the best things in life come his way. I know that past and present athletes feel a sense of gratitude and appreciation for all he has done. Waynesboro High School was truly blessed by his time and dedication.
Thanks.
Mark E Allen
Waynesboro High School class of ’ 87