Golden whistle

Taylor Farms and the Transformational Coaches of Monterey County pair up each high school sports season to present KSBW’s Golden Whistle Award. The award is given each athletic season to a local coach who is recognized by the community as an exceptional coach and mentor who strives to positively transform young athlete’s lives. Any coach at a public, private, or parochial high school on the Central Coast is eligible to be nominated by a player, parent, principal or teacher.

Patty Lamar, is a recent winner who has been the swimming coach and girl’s water polo coach at Salinas High School for 17 years. Prior to her role at Salina High School, Patty coached at Notre Dame, North Salinas High, and also volunteers her time Salinas Valley Aquatics. Patty Lamar players describe her as someone who works harder than anyone else to bring out the best in her athletes. Players describe the emphasis Lamar places on their academic responsibilities and counsels them on how to balance being both an outstanding athlete and student. Patty was in complete shock when she was presented the award and was surrounded by family, friends, and a group of 80 swimmers she has coached over the years!