Remembrance: Tom LaMonica ’67–Friends School Physical Education Teacher, Coach Tom LaMonica, a beloved physical
education teacher and coach at Friends School, died on September 2, 2010. He was 61. A 1967 graduate of Friends, he joined the School’s faculty in November 1971 upon completing service in the National Guard. Described by his co-workers as “one of the most ingenious teachers we have ever known,” he devised games and introduced new programs to the physical education curriculum with jaw-dropping ease. During his Friends tenure, LaMonica successfully coached the School’s football, wrestling, and lacrosse teams, but it was his devotion to the football program that helped keep it alive—especially during times when player turnout was low. He cultivated six MSA/ MIAA wrestling champions over the years, a particularly impressive feat for such a small program. Always the optimist, he convinced his teams that they can overcome any numerical disadvantage—and they often did. As owner and co-founder of Genesee Valley Outdoor Learning Center, LaMonica shepherded generations of Friends alumni through the high ropes course. He converted tall corn fields on his family farm into sports pitches to help provide local school and recreation-league teams with additional playing space. And he regularly reminded all of us to take time to reflect on the beauty and the wonder of the earth, the sky and all living creatures. News of Tom’s untimely death spread quickly through the community, as colleagues, friends and alumni shared memories and anecdotes. On the Friends School campus, Meetings for Worship provided students and colleagues with opportunities to hold Tom, his family, and each other in the Light as we grieved our loss. A Quaker memorial service held in the Forbush Auditorium on September 12 attracted more than 700 guests, many of whom stood outside in a light drizzle, listening to the heartfelt messages of those who spoke through a set of nearby speakers. Tom LaMonica is survived by his wife Jane, his five children—Michael, Dan, Jackie, Paul and Sara Mae LaMonica, his mother Doris (“Babe”), three grandchildren and his sister, Linda L. Monk ’63.
Taking fifth graders camping at Genesee Valley Farm was a requirement for teachers as well as students. I observed many miracles while watching kids tackle the obstacle course there. Shy, reluctant children overcame their fears. Followers became leaders and nonathletes proved to be dexterous and strong. Everyone gained something valuable from being around Tom in that environment—even the teachers!
—Claire Loecher Ebeling, former fifth grade teacher Freshman year I was cut from JV basketball. It was the first time I’d been cut from a team and I was upset. The next day I ran into Tom in the gym and he simply said, “Maalox (Tom’s nickname for me) you are wrestling for me this winter since you aren’t playing basketball. You need to stay in shape for lacrosse this spring. See you at practice tomorrow at 3:30.” We did not have a discussion. Tom simply made a decision for us. Rather than moping around all winter, I spent the winter working my butt off in the wrestling room. It was exactly what I needed. I learned there are always options and when you fall you need to pick yourself up and keep going.
—Mike Malin ’98 “If you cut corners running laps, you’ll cut corners in life…And that’s unacceptable!” “It’s a boot drill men…We’re gonna keep doin’ it until someone boots!” “It’s physics, men. The greater force delivers the greater blow and receives less pain!” “Move, son, move. You’re killing the grass!” “Doggone it! Kiss my cheeks!” “Perfect practice makes perfect.” —Contributed by Larry Smith ’83, Dave Alkire ’81, Dave Buschman ’81, Rob Hawley ’81, Myles Perkins ’94 and Wel Leimbach ’88
Friends School has created a tribute page on its website—friendsbalt.org—for friends, former students and colleagues to share their memories of Tom. COLLECTION has provided a sampling of the many entries for its readers. Enjoy.
Collection Magazine
Friends School of Baltimore
Fall 2010
15