A Coach's Gift for all Seasons Inspires TE

Conestoga High School's Head Football and Baseball Coach inspires his teams to greatness, regardless of how the scores or the standings stack up on any given moment of a season.

John Vogan is literally a coach for all seasons and one of the greatest examples is a guy named Sonny. For years now, Sonny has been a fixture of Coach Vogan's 'Stoga football and basbeball teams.

Sonny has Down Syndrome. While he doesn't have a place on official game rosters, Sonny is as much a member of Coach Vogan's teams as anyone.

TE Patch first told you Sonny's story after the Pioneers won the 2011 PIAA Baseball Championship last year. (Sonny's story was already well known before Patch came along in May 2011). After winning the game, the players made sure Sonny was honored by following the ritual that had followed every game that championship season. They let Sonny run the bases. (Click on the story to see the video).

This fall Sonny was on the sidelines with his football team, suited up as he always is. He inspires his teammates...and the entire community.

A moment that many may have not even noticed at Homecoming this past October once again showed how a coach's generosity to one young man has inspired countless Conestoga students over the years.  As the Homecoming Queen and King were introduced to the crowd, there was Sonny, a proud and vital member of the court.

That gift came from the students and a school community who have embraced Sonny as much as he has them.

It all started with a coach's gift to one special young man who has literally given back in ways that inspire the Conestoga and great TE community every day.