I have just started getting reports from friends on FaceBook and from news sources such as ESPN and Bleacher Report that Shawn Tompkins, the head trainer of TapouT Training Centers in Las Vegas, was found dead in Canada where he was training Chris Horodecki for his next fight. This is such an incredible shock. Shawn was only 37 years old and seemingly in excellent health. Apparently, Shawn passed away in his sleep. No cause is known. An autopsy is planned for tomorrow. Earlier this year Shawn had conducted a training seminar at Dion Riccardo's Victory Martial Arts, in Orland Park, Illinois. This is the school I train at, although I train at our Oswego gym. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the seminar. I heard from teammates that he was an inspirational coach. I wish I could have met him.
Something like this happening to someone so young really makes you think of your own mortality. I am 39 years old. My father passed away at the age of 43. Now, while my father's health was poor for many years, and my health is excellent, someone like Shawn passing reminds us that none of us know how long we have in this part of our journey. Here on Earth, what will we do to make our light shine bright? What actions will we do to make a difference? How will we have lived this life?
Live on your terms! Make a difference! Be a leader! Be a role model! Be positive! Be kind! Be a mentor! Be humble enough to learn from others! Be gracious! Go for the finish! Leave it all on the mat!!
RIP Shawn Tompkins! May the transition to the next stage of your journey be swift.
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