May 29, 2009
by Susie Pender
As reported in last week’s edition of NewCastleNOW.org, Eric Naposki, a strength, speed and agility trainer who worked with many members of the Greeley football team, was arrested last week in connection with an almost 15-year-old unsolved murder case in California. He was extradited to California from Connecticut this past Wednesday. See “Local trainer to be extradited to California to face murder rap,” NewcastleNOW.org, May 22, 2009.
Horace Greeley football coach Bill Tribou sent the following letter to his players to offer them some guidance in these unusual circumstances.
How Ya Doin Men,
Undoubtedly many of you are troubled by the situation concerning Eric Naposki. I am going to give you my thoughts. . . . Hopefully it might help some of you sort some of it out.
You live in the greatest country in the world. “You are innocent until proven guilty.” That came from The Great Founders and has been defended by many generations of young men and women. Many gave their lives and limbs to defend that right. Actually that is what [last] Monday is truly all about!
Eric is physically gifted and will be able to withstand this ordeal. Concern at this point should be for his family.
I tell people often that every household is a 2 story house. . . . Rarely do we know what is really going on behind closed doors.
Some may choose to support him and some may want to distance themselves. . . .BOTH ARE OK! The one thing that you don’t want to do is to pre-judge, whether it be positively or negatively. Don’t gossip!!! The man you know has been a good friend, a confidant and caring.
Let the legal system play this out. It is not perfect but it is pretty darn close. . . . Lastly if the facts prove that Eric is guilty, then he should be punished to the law’s fullest extent.
KEEP THE FAITH
WITH LOVE—-REGARDS TRIBOU
Editor’s Note: Coach Tribou ended his message with his home and cell phone numbers, which we have not reproduced here.
Copyright 2012 NewCastleNOW.org