I can only be in one place at a time, so when I am not at a game - or return from one - my job requires a lot of desk duty in which I talk to coaches on the phone to summarize the contests I did not attend.

About three years ago I wrote a column listing the most overused phrases in sports quotes, many of which I will absolutely refuse to print. Nope, you will not see a “we’ve been working hard” or “we gave 100 percent” in my write-ups. I will go that extra mile – or in my case, ask additional questions – to draw out original thoughts from the local coaching brethren. Folks, it’s not as easy as it might seem, especially when a coach is reporting a blowout loss. Sometimes less is better, and often, I adhere to the adage, “if you can’t say something nice… .”

However, there are the jewels of the coaching profession who consistently provide me with thoughtful responses that spice up game stories. Below I have compiled a list of past and present coaches who have always given me interesting fodder to write about for the readers of Chenango County. As a disclaimer, I have enjoyed working with all of the local coaches, and no disrespect is intended toward any of those not mentioned.

Bob Branham, Norwich golf coach