'Dream' facility in works for Hillsboro youth

Brad who has been a part of Thunder Softball since 2011 as a coach and board member was honored at the Oregon ASA Hall of Fame Banquet held in December with the Chuck Quinn Memorial Award, Youth Coach of the Year. Brad was nominated by girls that have played for him over the years. Here are some of the nomination letters the committee received in Brads nomination.

Brad was truly the best coach I’ve ever had. He taught me so much about the game and even more about life in general. He taught me that your character, your schoolwork and how you treat your family and friends were more important than anything on the field. I am so lucky to have been able to play under him for so many years and I will never forget the fun memories we’ve shared traveling and playing ball across the country.” -Morgan

Brad was not just a coach to me he was like my second father! :) I have known him and his wonderful family since I was in the 4th grade and not at one point (from the 4th grade to my last game in my career) did I not enjoy being on his team. Bradley was very supportive of my deciosions to let me run freely around the bases or pitch what I wanted (as long as I didn't hit people haha) but most of all he was a great mentor for me in my life. He helped ease me and my dad when we would get in fights. Him, his coaching style and love for each one of us girls made me love the game of softball! I remember all the girls on other teams were jealous of our coaches cause they didn't yell at us or make it a job lol the best memories I have of my childhood are on the Oregon Thunder with Bradley son and the gang :) -Courtney

I'm a little biased because I am his daughter, but I have played softball for over 13 years and all of those years my dad has been my summer ball coach. He is the most kind hearted coach I have ever met and not only cares about the player you are and will become, but also you as a person. He has taught not only me, but all of his other players throughout the years so many life lessons that I would not have learned if it were not for softball. He has spent countless hours volunteering for the Oregon Thunder organization and has dedicated over 15 years helping athletes get better and grow as players while helping them along the way to get recruited to play in college. He has given up so much of his own time to help girls like me to make their dream come true. If it weren't for my dad who was also my coach, I would not be where I'm at today, playing D1 softball. I love you dad! - Maria

We are very lucky to have Brad as a part of our organization and want to send our sincere congratulations to him for this honor!