Coach Marcus joined the Ladera Liquids 3 years ago, in the spring of 2011. He came to me from Florida through an ad I had placed on Craig’s List. When I met him and had a chance to talk with him, I knew right away he would fit perfectly with the philosophy of our club, as well as the other coaches we had on staff. He jumped right in working with our beginning swimmers, teaching stroke and technique, turning them from beginners into competent swimmers. He was developing a wonderful report with our swimmers and parents. Outside of practice hours he provided private lessons to kids on the team. These were kids that wanted extra help with their swimming technique, which helped those swimmers immensely. Because of his hard work, these swimmers began seeing great improvement in their racing. I have to say Marcus has developed quite a following of kids who want his attention. Because of all this hard work, Marcus has been able to rise through the Liquids coaching ranks very quickly. He is currently working with our elite program and what he brings to the table is irreplaceable. This past Monday, April 21st, Coach Marcus did not show up at the pool. This was completely out of character. After talking with the other coaches, we knew something was not right. We sent Coach Trevor back to San Clemente to find him. I told Trevor to do whatever was needed to get into Marcus’ apartment. When Trevor found him, Marcus was conscious but lying on the floor unable to move. Trevor immediately got him to the hospital where it was determined he had suffered a massive stroke. Coach Stephen now was involved and went with Marcus from a hospital in San Clemente to where he currently is at Saddleback Memorial in Laguna Hills. This particular hospital specializes in stroke recovery. The following day, the entire coaching staff rallied behind Marcus. We all showed up and snuck into the ICU as brothers, uncles and aunts. We sat vigil with him doing what we could until his mom arrived from Florida late that night. For those who may not realize when you join the Liquids, you are not just part of a team, but part of a family. Marcus is now my brother and I will do everything in my power to see him get back on his feet and get back to the pool deck where he can be with the people who love him. I’m asking for your help on Coach Marcus’ behalf. Please give what you can.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, his mom’s, his family’s, the coaches’ and the Ladera Ranch Liquids,

Coach Evan