Bradshaw’s Greatest Impact Made Off Basketball Court

I was truly floored by the news Dean Bradshaw will not be coaching boys’ basketball at Simi Valley High this year. He has been a man of honor, a mentor, a father and a friend to all these young men throughout the years.

The love and knowledge he has for the most important job on this planet--teaching and coaching--cannot be measured. I can’t think of anyone as dedicated to his profession.

I am devastated that I will not get the pleasure of watching him skillfully teach and coach this year. It saddens me to think more children will not get the privilege of having Bradshaw coach them and experience his dedication and leadership.

SUZEE KERR

Simi Valley

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Dean Bradshaw was my basketball coach at Thousand Oaks High in the late 1970s, and I want to express what an impression he left with me. Besides my father, no one has done more for me than Bradshaw. I owe so much to him for giving me an opportunity.

He was demanding, motivating and a leader at all times. I am lucky to have played for one of the finest basketball coaches in the country. If walking away from the game at this time is what he wants, he’s deserving. I am surprised he never went on to the college level; he has a lot to offer. Congratulations on a great career.

MIKE FECZKO

Thousand Oaks

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Sometimes there is a man, or a woman, who is a mentor to many people, young and old. These special people are rare. Bradshaw is one of those people. His energy, effort and enthusiasm for our youth cannot be matched. His positive effect and mentorship for thousands will be remembered for many years. I am saddened to see that many students will no longer benefit from his leadership and influence.

DEDREE HOYT

Simi Valley

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Your article really disturbed me. I have known Bradshaw since I was a sophomore at Simi Valley High 17 years ago. It disappoints me that other high school coaches would be bothered by “the steady flow” of transfers coming in to play for him. Good players want to play for a good basketball coach.

I spent the 1989-90 season as his assistant and have continued to value him as a credible source for coaching advice, as well as a personal friend. He has always been a positive leader and I have a great deal of respect for him.

It frustrates me that others are attempting to ruin the reputation of a good man who has worked so hard for many children. Bradshaw is a father, teacher and coach who has worked extremely hard to help young student-athletes succeed in the classroom, on the basketball court and in life.

His loyalty, dedication and ability to teach, motivate and mold young men into caring, responsible adults will afford him the opportunity to turn another high school basketball program into a powerhouse. I am sad that it won’t be my alma mater.

MARTY WILSON

Assistant basketball coach,

UC Santa Barbara

Goleta