Toliver brings success to U-High
By: Michael Klos
Updated: April 16, 2012
WMBD-WYZZ-TV STAFF - NORMAL, IL - For 14 years, U-High had to watch Al Toliver coaching from the opponents bench at Olympia.
But this season, when Toliver steps on to the field, he's wearing pioneer green and gold, instead of blue and white.
At Olympia, Al Toliver added three state titles to his resume, and won more than 450 games. Coaching softball is clearly his passion.
"Love teaching the game, and love having kids and teaching them things and the kids get it. That is the fun part of the game is watching them improve," said Al Toliver, U-High Softball Coach.
In 2010, Toliver retired as a member of the Spartans and took a year off...When the head coaching job opened up at U-High this season, he had to take it, and the Pioneers are glad he did.
"I just feel like it was a great transistion. I thought we needed it and he brought us to the next level that we needed to be at," said Shannon Stuart, U-High Senior.
A few weeks ago, U-High even beat Coach Toliver's old team...it was the Spartans first conference loss in seven years.
"We were really happy to beat them," said Kali Riddell, U-High Senior, says, It was a big win for us. SInce I've been here at U-High, we have never beat Olympia."
"Very different seeing all those girls that I've coached all through the years and knowing them and their families and the coaching staff," said Toliver." "Very different to be on the other side of that."
"While there will always be a special place in his heart for Olympic high school, Coach Tolliver says he thinks he can bring his brand of success to U-High."
Al Toliver, U-High Head Softball Coach, says, "Coaching is coaching. Doesn't matter where ou are at. the girls here want to learn, and be challenged. I'm trying to do that," said Toliver." "Challenge them to be the best they can be."
