Through the Eyes of a Tiger: An Interview with Coach Atha

Tommy Atha has taught ELA-8 physical education at Darlington since 1993 and also serves as an assistant athletic director, head varsity football coach and Middle School girls’ basketball coach. He has led the Tigers football team to the state playoffs 17 times and has coached them to three consecutive region championships from 2009-11. During his tenure at Darlington, he has also coached track and taught civics, world geography as well as American history.

What led you to Darlington?
I came to Darlington 22 years ago as a young teacher and coach. I had always competed against Darlington as a player and was impressed with the way the kids competed and carried themselves. Also, at that time, Jerry Sharp was the head football coach and I wanted to take advantage of the opportunity to work for him.

What is your favorite part about being a teacher at Darlington?
I enjoy the day-to-day interaction with kids. I am blessed to teach and/or coach every age group at Darlington. On any given day I will teach or coach a 4-year-old, a 12-year-old, and an 18-year-old. That is a full day and each one is always different!

Which character trait do you believe is most important for a student-athlete to possess in order to excel?
I think mental toughness is extremely important for the success of student-athletes. Those who are mentally tough can persevere through adversity and have the ability to keep fighting for a worthy cause regardless of the outcome. I also think that mentally tough kids will not take short cuts and will adhere to doing the “little things” the right way, and in the end, the little things done the right way are what matter most. Mental toughness breeds integrity.

Would you say that you are a tough teacher/coach?
I would say that I am tough in the sense that I expect and demand the best from my kids on a daily basis. The kids I coach and teach know that I expect them to work hard every day and that in doing so they will be successful.

What are three words you would use to describe Darlington?
Tradition, excellence and success.