Category Archives: DDN News

Coach walks on the sunny side of life

DDN News

20060903ebrightCENTERVILLE – Scott Ebright has cancer. But that doesn’t appear to slow him down or stop him from seeing the sunny side of life, even in the rain.

“The good thing about being bald,” Ebright chuckles as he wipes his head, “is the rain doesn’t drip off my hair into my eyes.”

A gentle man with an ever-present twinkle in his eyes and a grin on his face, Ebright, 43, is the coach for the Metro FC Renegades boys U13 team. He has been coaching soccer for the past eleven years, is a licensed referee and also helps assign games for the Dayton Area Soccer Officials Association (DASOA).

Ebright was diagnosed with cancer first in 2002, again in 2005 and again in February of this year. Each time, he went through treatment and was pronounced ‘cured’. He is scheduled for another round of chemotherapy this coming week, but uses Internet-based training videos, a strong assistant coaching staff and very supportive parents to stay connected to his team.

“My first concern was about the time I may not have to coach my kids,” Ebright said. When he found out his cancer returned, he sent an email to his parents with his diagnoses. Immediately, he received back overwhelming support that he remain their coach. From the admiration and respect the parents and players show him, it is clear that they made the right choice.

“If I have learned anything from this experience, is that it is ultimately all about the relationships we have with other people. People are what matters most and we should treat each other with kindness and respect.”

Then his eyes twinkled and he broke out into a grin again. Ebright just couldn’t stay serious for long as he joked about his health and the interview.

“I forgot to study for this interview,” he joked. “I hope I passed!”

To check out Ebright’s team and all the games of the 27th Mead CUSA Cup soccer tournament in real-time, go on-line at www.cusasoccer1.com.

PHOTO: Ebright gives a post-game analysis to his team after their second game on Saturday. The Metro FC team tied against PASA 3-3.

The Mead CUSA Cup kicks off the tournament with a high energy get-together

DDN News

20060901cusa2DAYTON – The Dayton Marriott was a-buzz with activity as the team coaches registered their teams and picked up their official programs. They are all getting ready for the start of the 2006 Mead CUSA Cup soccer tournament. But it wasn’t all work for everyone.

In the center of the ballroom was a large ice sculpture and a well-stocked buffet featuring chicken tenders, stuffed mushrooms, meatballs and various other finger foods. Small groups gathered, swapping stories as they munched on the eats. Outside in the hall, there was more mingling as old friends reconnected and new friends were made.

Down the hall, in a crowded room full of kids of all ages, Mead was demonstrating its new Zwipes, a permanent marker that ‘erases.’

“We’re glad to be a part of this,” said Sue Thompson with Mead, the tournament name sponsor. “This is a great event for the community… there is a lot of high energy here.”

The energy is bound to spill onto the field in the morning when friends from the night before become competitors. But tonight, it was all about having a good time.
For real-time scores and standings all weekend, check out www.cusasoccer1.com

PHOTO: Christy Conley helps register teams at the Mead CUSA team registration. Her son plays for the CUSA club at U13.