Coach Bob Hofman will have a lasting legacy as an iconic basketball coach. His commitment to the student-athlete is paramount. I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Hofman and was involved, until my retirement from Fort Lewis College, in helping him ensure FLC was the best fit for our basketball players. I still stay in touch with the many basketball alumni who were brought to FLC by Hofman. He has my admiration and respect for his dedication to student-athletes and for his mastery of the game.

In Division II, coaches face numerous challenges, including a heavy workload and extensive travel. Hofman is blessed with a wonderful spouse, Nancy, and three sons who know more than anyone the sacrifices a coach’s family must make for the good of the cause. Thank you to the Hofman family.

Sports fans, we are fortunate to have had the benefit of Hofman all of these years and, thankfully, for one more. I applaud the college for recognizing him as a coach emeritus.

I also am thrilled that Bobby Pietrack will assume head-coaching duties after many years of working hard to earn the spot. I also had the good fortune to work with Pietrack and have known him since he was a student. As a student-athlete, he had the leadership, perseverance and dedication to his team that, in many ways, is truly singular. He loves the sport of basketball and will be an asset to the college in the years to come. Bobby’s wife, Lauren, a teacher, is also an avid sports fan, and they will work together to ensure the men’s basketball program continues with the brand of excellence.

And, please, tell me it isn’t so: John Peel has left The Durango Herald? He loves this community and did such a stellar job in telling the stories of so many unique and special people in our region. He will leave a big void at the Herald. I admire him greatly.

Sheri Rochford Figgs

Durango