Charles, 'Chuck', Hansen taught many things to the high school students at Glenbrook North, and some of them were related to academics.  Most of the lessons were about how to be human beings.

He was my and my brother's wrestling coach and there were more than a few young men who found the direction of their lives altered, even saved by Chuck.  I preached about him several years ago, about his demanding work ethic, his expectation of respect for yourself and all others including opponents (I once displayed disrespect for an opponent- only once).  His consistent record of successful teams was more an outward and visible manifestation of what he was creating inwardly in the young men on those teams- committed, bonded, fiercely loyal across grade levels, grateful for the opportunities we had, honorable.

He was one part task master, one part zen master.  After pushing us in practice from 3:30 to 6:00, he would gather us to talk.  Sometimes it was about our past match, sometimes about an upcoming match, and more often some reflection about work, ethics, respect, loyalty and what brought joy. He was the Phil Jackson of wrestling coaches- committed to our spirits even more than producing successful wrestlers.

At a time in my life when self-respect was not always manifest, when direction was unclear and trips to the principle's office were not infrequent, Chuck offered a vision of what life might be, he manifested a belief in you that invited you to believe in yourself.  Before I knew the baptismal covenant (respect for all, the dignity of all, just living), I had Chuck Hansen.

Chuck will be honored for his years of teaching and coaching tomorrow night at our high school in Chicago.  I and my brother are meeting at O'Hare Airport in the morning and from there heading together to the event.  After the school event, the wrestlers  (about thirty years of them) are gathering at a local establishment.  It will be a true family reunion.    Those gathered will be an outward and visible sign of the inward opus of one who held before us belief in life.

Peace,

Todd Donatelli