Wayland High School history teacher and boys varsity soccer coach David Gavron strives to create a supportive and fun environment wherever he is, on the soccer field or in front of class. Gavron said his goal as both a teacher and a coach is to make sure his students have opportunities for academic and extracurricular growth.
Gavron continued to play soccer throughout high school and fell in love with the sport. He continued to play during his time at St. Anselm College, but wasn't ready to stop there. He followed his love of soccer to his alma mater, Masconomet Regional High School in Topsfield, Massachusetts, where he assisted coach Renee Emmons. At Maconomet, Gavron was the head coach of the boys freshman and JV soccer teams, as well as the girls varsity soccer team.
In 2008, Gavron was offered a teaching position at WHS and had the opportunity to become the head coach of the Wayland boys varsity soccer team. Since taking over as head coach in 2008, Gavron has shaped the team into what it is today. He has led his team to three of his state titles and is on track to win more.
“I was really fortunate to teach and coach at the same school,” Gavron said. “The opportunity to make connections off the football field has been extremely important to my teaching, coaching, and overall success of the program. We have been able to succeed as a football program by hiring great assistant coaches. It is rooted in the fact that we were able to do so.”
Gavron often invites former players, like 2002 graduate Charles Goodhue, to help with coaching because he believes it's the team's past that keeps the program fun and vibrant. For the past 25 years, Gavron has also worked at soccer camps in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine.
“I want my sons to know that you can take risks on the soccer field,” Gavron said. “But on the field, we have to play together to be successful.”
Gavron believes his previous coaching experiences have shaped his own coaching style. Throughout his life, he has been coached by coaches to love and respect soccer. Gavron also uses his own coaching experience to coach his son, junior Jack Gavron, who is an active player on the Wayland boys varsity soccer team.
“I actually really enjoy having him as my coach,” J. Gavron said. “I'm glad he treated me like any other player.'' I like that they are very passionate about it.”
D. Gavron's coaching style demonstrates his belief that passion and dedication play an important role in the success of sports teams. Senior men's soccer captain Zach Rainville said D. Gavron's coaching style is worthy of praise.
“[D. Gavron] They always do a great job and show us that there is more to do. [soccer] It’s not just a game,” Rainville said. “He always says family comes first, school comes second and soccer comes third. [message] It really reflects how the team turns into a family by the end of the season. ”
D. Gavron also uses humor to create a safe and comfortable environment for his players and students.
“I think I try to use humor to connect with people. [but] I feel that I can use humor in the classroom. [sometimes] It turns some kids off,” D. Gavron said. “[Nevertheless], I want the classroom to be a place where students feel safe and can seize opportunities. Just like a soccer field [my students] To feel safe taking risks. ”
D. Gavron has had a huge impact not only on the lives of some of his players, but also on the lives of some of his students, with his collaborative coaching style.
“[D. Gavron] When explaining big challenges, she always goes into great detail to make sure we do the right thing,” sophomore Annie Melander said. “You can tell he really wants us to be successful, not just in his class, but in general.”
D. Gavron cherishes his time working at WHS and looks forward to the rest of his career.
“I hope to finish my teaching and coaching career strong here at Wayland.”