More than a coach

The boys of Adrenaline Training Centre are gutted. I've reached out to several of them. Those who've reached back are touched and troubled, and too hurt to discuss much.

News of the death of the Shawn Tompkins hit the East London crew like a ton of bricks on Sunday. Some members of the organization heard this morning. Others just got word this evening. One was even on a golf course when his phone rang. Tonight, distraught, even lost for words, they've assembled like a band of brothers to grieve, support, rally, remember an individual who was so much more than a coach, but a mentor and a father figure.

Details of Shawn's passing are still few. What has been learned is that he was found this morning, unresponsive at a friend's house. He was pronounced dead shortly after. It's so confusing, because the last anyone saw of him, last night at a show in Hamilton, he appeared fine. Questions over how this tragedy came to be will no doubt be asked and answers fiercely sought, but for now, perhaps for a while, controlling heartbreak is the priority. Unfortunately that's easier said than done.

Mark, Sam, Chris and the Adrenaline guys are known for their fight. And here, in an instant, another one. But unlike their bouts of the past, this challenge is different, tougher, lonelier. A new fight to stay strong, keep a family united and a gym afloat is cruelly upon them. What's so sad and so real is that this time they won't be able turn to the man they had turned to so often for support in situations like these. For this fight; all they have is each other, for guidance and a shoulder. He would've been there. So they have to. For themselves, for the memory of "The Coach".

I will continue to share my thoughts on the late Shawn Tompkins throughout the week ahead.