Skylights

Local high school football coach only 1 win away from 400

Upper St. Clair’s Jim Render is one win away from making history; however, his impact on football over 40 years in western Pennsylvania goes beyond just wins and losses.

“Getting that 400th win means a lot to us as a community, as a group of players, even those who have come before us, knowing what dedication it took to get to that point,” said Jack Hansberry, a linebacker for Pitt who played under Render.

However, if you ask his former players, such as Gabe Huoy, son of Channel 11 reporter Lori Huoy, it’s not the wins that’ll be remembered most.

“He's the guy who's always been there, the guy who worked his butt off, and just trying to better himself, better the kids and help people achieve their goals of being the best people and players they can be," Gabe Houy said.

"He taught me how to grow up,” said Brandon Ford. “And probably still, if you ask Coach Render, there's still some growing up to do”

And that’s what separates Jim Render. Life lessons through football that gain the respect of anyone around the legendary coach.

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“When the players come back and they say hello, that’s what really puts a smile on his face,” USC Head Trainer Joe Graceffo explained. “The wins and losses are important to him -- don’t get me wrong, he’s a competitor at heart -- but that’s the true barometer of what he’s all about.”

But when he does decide to retire, how will Render be remembered?

“Well he’ll be remembered as the winningest coach in WPIAL history and he will always be remembered as the face of Upper St. Clair football," said assistant coach Shawn Morton.

 

Cox Media Group

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