There are many ways in which to celebrate change, accomplishment, and success. Generally resignation is not the word we associate with such an announcement but it is the proper word to describe the decision made by Union College Athletic Director, Dr. Darin S. Wilson and his announcement and that of Georgia Gwinett College to his selection and acceptance to serve as their Athletic Director in Lawrenceville, Georgia.
I have used many difference names in speaking with Dr. Wilson over the years of my association with him. We first met when I served as a collegiate sports official umpiring baseball and supervising officials at the N.A.I.A. level. I simply referred to him then by his baseball jersey number “5”. Later when he became the assistant coach of the Union Bulldog Baseball Program that adjusted to the proper title of “Coach Wilson”. That title continued when he became the Head Coach of the Bulldog Baseball program. While our on the field friendship was solid and strong our friendship grew in other ways too. I had the honor and privilege of leading Darin in believers baptism and he also served as the Minister of Music for the Horse Creek Road Baptist Church in Corbin, Ky. He is an excellent soloist and his Christian Faith is strong, and vibrant. I was able to serve he and his wife Patti as an officiating minister at their wedding ceremony, which was an honor for me.
It is amazing how our friendship has grown over the years. With his resignation announcement it is amazing how fast 18 years has passed. One moment he was walking onto the diamond as a player and then a blink of the eyes and he has lead the Union Athletic program to achieve unprecedented growth and accomplishment with Championships and team achievements some might have never even dreamed possible. How did he do it, you might ask? Simply, he has lived a life of excellence, believes that pushing for the prize is not only a Biblical call but one that we should each strive for as individuals and collectively as team members too. It is not everyday that we as observers can witness individual change in people but watching Director Wilson it becomes obvious of the leadership skills he possesses and his personal characteristics of excellence shine.
He leaves Union College after having proven his abilities and as he leaves for Georgia Gwinett College, he does so to lead them in establishing their athletic program. Building a program from the ground up is exciting and filled with challenges that Coach Wilson is excited to tackle. When I think about the task before him, hiring coaches, establishing fields, securing contracts, and building a cohesive and comprehensive Athletic Department is going to be another great witness experience. Great witness for Darin as he demonstrates his Christian commitment and leadership and a great witness experience for us who will be checking in and watching from a distance.
Serving him and Union College as the Sports Chaplain for 10 years has been a blessing beyond words. I have known Dr. Darin S. Wilson by many names. Our experiences over the years have been awesome. When I think about the best descriptive for our time together I think it is best summed up simply by saying it’s been a great journey….friend.
Until then
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