EDITOR’S NOTE: Sally Madeira was late former Nashua High School girls basketball coach John Fagula’s first real star in 1982, the first of many to follow. Here is a letter Madeira has written to her late former coach to honor his memory. In addition, see Sports Writer Tom King’s feature on Fagula on Page C1.

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Dear Coach Fagula (John),

It has been so many years since I have seen you but you were always in my thoughts and prayers.

What a privilege it was to not only have you as my Coach but as my friend, brother and mentor. So I decided to start back at the beginning only to understand why I decided to play basketball.

My brother had passed away at the age of 15 and my mother, “my best friend”, said go play basketball. I remembered going to the town league and I never played a minute. I was insanely AWFUL. Like Horrible. I never picked up a ball in my entire life but, I fell in love.

As years went on I would play hours a day. Then came Elm Street Junior High. This is where I had the privilege to meet you, Coach Fagula, and I can’t forget to mention Coach Richard LaSalle (He was very cool – Hola-hello). Coach Fagula, how many games did we play one-on-one and you kicked my BUTT?

In the end I finally beat you! I remembered running around the gym so happy with myself that I had beaten you in a game of pick up after three years. We had an amazing journey together and the greatest moment was our first state championship. My teammates would laugh now after ‘killing the Bird’ … Those who were in my car will remember (you know who you are).

You were always like a second father figure towards me. You constantly taught me discipline and respect and always tried to guide me in the right direction. I appreciate everything you taught me and helped me get through.

You have been the most memorable and honorable coach I’ve ever had, I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me. It was because of you I got into Boston College. It was because of you I loved the game so much. It was not a job for me it was the joy of my life. A simple ball you put into a simple hoop yet so much fun.

Thank you for all the letters we sent back and forth every Christmas. I still have them all and will cherish them every single day of my life.

You are a true HERO in my eyes and have touched so many lives. I will miss you forever and will think about you forever!

God Bless and bless your family in this time.