Senate Resolution No. 641

BY: Senator KENNEDY

CONGRATULATING Michael Ertel upon the occasion of
being named the 2016 Region One Competitive Coach of
the Year

WHEREAS, It is incumbent upon the people of the State of New York to
recognize those individuals within our midst who have contributed
greatly to the quality of our lives by providing exceptional leadership
to our youth; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commend those
notable educators and athletic coaches within our midst who serve the
youth of this great Empire State and who have distinguished themselves
and their schools through their exemplary athletic achievements and
their outstanding commitment to education; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
congratulate Michael Ertel upon the occasion of being named the 2016
Region One Competitive Coach of the Year; this momentous occasion was
celebrated on Friday, January 13, 2017, at the U.S. Youth Soccer Awards
Gala in Los Angeles, California; and

WHEREAS, Michael Ertel is being honored with this auspicious award
in recognition of his demonstration of strong leadership, sportsmanship,
player development and involvement in the community; and

WHEREAS, Growing up playing soccer in Western New York, Michael
Ertel is currently the Head Coach for the Empire Revolution Soccer
Academy Elite Program of 15 to 17-year-olds; in addition, he is the
Director of Coaching for the Grand Island Soccer Club, Head Coach at
Villa Maria College, and Physical Education Teacher at Notre Dame
Academy in Buffalo, New York; and

WHEREAS, Michael Ertel has been coaching for Villa Maria College
since March of 2015, bringing nearly eight years of coaching experience
to the Vikings; he previously served as an Assistant Coach for FC
Buffalo, and was the Boys Varsity Soccer Coach for West Seneca Schools;
and

WHEREAS, Currently pursuing a Master of Science degree in Recreation
and Sports Studies/Soccer Coaching from Ohio University, Michael Ertel
holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from
Canisius College; and

WHEREAS, Michael Ertel credits his success with the profound support
he receives from both parents and community members; and

WHEREAS, Coach Michael Ertel's positive attitude, selfless
commitment, goal-oriented and balanced approach to instruction, on top
of his genuine concern for his athletes, has contributed to his enduring
success as a coach and mentor, earning him the just respect of his
community and the State of New York; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate Michael Ertel upon the occasion of being named the 2016
Region One Competitive Coach of the Year; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Michael Ertel.