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After a lot of thought, Larry Brodin has tendered his resignation as head softball coach in North Branch.

“Deciding to leave was a tough decision and it took a lot of time. I do feel it was the right decision for me,” Brodin said about retiring from coaching after 27 seasons with the Vikings. The coach has held that position since he was hired to teach in North Branch in the fall of 1979.

In addition to being at the helm of the softball program, Brodin served many seasons as a high school assistant and middle school coach in volleyball and basketball. “Larry is a real champion of the underdog - for the kid who didn’t quite fit in,” said assistant softball coach Ron Trunk. “He always saw something in kids and found a way to have her contribute.”

Trunk, who also coached with Brodin in the very successful Viking volleyball program, added, “He always looked out for the kid who might not have as much ability as some of the other players, but was willing to work hard. He’s really interested in all kids and all sports.”

Dan Schindler, who also assisted Brodin in softball for many years, said, “I had the honor and priviledge to coach with Larry.  I think when anybody thinks about N.B. Girls Softball you have to think about coach Brodin.  He has been the one consistent piece for 27 years. 

“The thing that I remember most about Coach Brodin is his passion for the game and always having his players prepared for each situation.  It seemed he was just as excited for the early season in the gym practice as the wonderful 80 degrees outside practice. 

“I asked him why he was leaving now when (on paper) he is returning a pretty good group of players.  He said he wanted to leave the program when it was in good shape, not on a rebuilding year for his sucessor.  That also tells you alot about his character.  He will be missed.  It certainly will be different not seeing him coaching third base at the next N.B. softball game,” Schindler added.

“You have to applaud his longevity. Twenty seven years...you just don’t see that much anymore,” said North Branch Activities Director Becky Leuer. “It says a lot for his commitment and dedication to kids.”

Brodin said, “I want to personally thank all of the players that came through the program over these many years. I hope they enjoyed playing while I was coaching and hope they learned something about life by participating. There were some great players and some fantastic personalities that I had the privilege to work with. They are the reason you coach. It’s not as much the wins and losses, but working with great players that make it fun.

“I also want to thank the many coaches that I have had the privilege to work with. They all had a part in the success of this program. I know that I leave the program in good hands and North Branch softball will continue to succeed on the field and produce quality individuals in life and outside of softball. I thank everyone for a lot of great memories,” Brodin concluded.

Brodin will continue to teach Physical Education to North Branch High School students.

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