Forever falling forward, time changes a lot of things. This will always be true. In fact, Clinton itself has seen its fair share of changes as the years have passed. Here in the present, it continues that trend. But while time and the changes that come with it forever continue their march forward, it’s important to stop and look back on where we’ve been to appreciate where we are now. With this spirit, today we look back with gratitude on the contributions and dedication of long-time Clintonian and local sportswriter Tim Komer, whose years of contributions to the Clinton Community through his coverage and support of high-school sports and the student athletes, coaches, and parents who make it all possible can neither be understated or ignored.
Tim, who has recently chosen to retire from his sports-writing position at the Clinton Daily Democrat this year at the age of seventy-two, has been a familiar face and staple in the Clinton community for a very long time. There are many who know and remember Tim from his time spent coaching. Others know Tim from his time representing local sports and student athletes with class, care and dedication over the better half of the last decade. Many still, maybe most importantly, know Tim as a friend. And for so many years, that is what Tim has been to the community; a friend. Speaking of friends, long-time friend of Tim, Bill Koch perhaps summed it up best when asked about his now retired companion, going on to say that “[Tim] is a true sportsman” putting his “whole heart” into everything he does. After all, investing immeasurable time, energy, and passion into his work in local sports, Tim has represented his community with the kind of class, dedication and giving spirit that so many of us hope to emulate.
In special thanks to Tim, many of friends, colleagues and peers have offered kind words and thanks for all his contributions:
Dennis Siegar, who recounted his time spent with Tim following and attending high-school soccer together offered a special appreciation for Tim’s thorough knowledge of local sports and local sports history. Matt Petry, who coached with and against Tim back some 15-20 years ago remarked on Tim’s “giving spirit,” sharing that Tim was “one of those guys always willing to offer a helping hand.” Jennifer Keiley, who first knew Tim from when he coached when her kids were in parks and recreation leagues, shared her sentiment that Tim “has always been a positive influence on the youth.” Keiley also shared a particularly special memory of Tim from when her daughter played for Clinton Cardinals Basketball in the Conference Championship Tournament. Keiley recalls that her daughter was at the free throw line to tie or win the game, and that she couldn’t bear to look. Tim himself was there that night, and offered to look for her, holding Keiley’s hand as she closed her eyes, ducking behind the wall and praying for the best. But that’s Tim. Ever present, and ever offering a helping hand. For Keiley, it was one of those gestures that you just never forget. Clinton High-School Athletic Director, Alex Johnson, also offered his appreciation to Tim, recounting that when [he] moved to Clinton, Tim Komer’s name was given to him as a primary contact with the implication if you want things to go well as AD. “Boy, was this advice good!” Alex shared. Alex also shared, that “During my time working with Tim, I can honestly say that he was always there for the kids and did a fantastic job of putting others before himself. He was a joy to work with and I will truly miss expecting to see him on our side-lines. Thank you for supporting me, my family, and Cardinal Activities!”
As for this sportswriter, looking to fill Tim’s shoes on the local sports scene, I think that maybe what’s most amazing about Tim, is how he was able to resonate with and impact so many people over the years through his work. I myself, owe Tim my thanks for helping to make those big shoes fit all the more comfortably through this whole transition into the position he has filled for so well and so long. So, Tim, THANK YOU. From myself, the Clinton School-District, the Clinton Daily Democrat, and so many others, you have impacted us all in a way that only you could. And for that, we are all the better for it.
