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Baldwin coach wrestling to pull a reversal on a serious illness
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Baldwin High School played host to the Class AAA Section 2 tournament Saturday, but Highlanders coach George McCormack was not in attendance.
McCormack, a 20-year coaching veteran, is wrestling with his toughest opponent -- esophageal cancer.
"George had surgery to replace his esophagus last week," said Highlanders assistant Blake Toki, who has been serving as interim head coach at Baldwin most of the season. "Fortunately, the surgery went well. He's been put on a pure liquid diet, but that's to be expected in this situation. His spirits are up and he's got a positive outlook on the situation."
McCormack has been on sick leave at Baldwin since the Christmas vacation. His surgery was performed at UPMC Presbyterian. He was released earlier this week.
"Our prayers and best wishes are with George and his wife," said Toki, who has served as McCormack's assistant for five years. "I'm just keeping his seat warm until he comes back, healthy and ready to coach. We've even discussed next year's schedule."
Toki held a benefit to raise money for Baldwin High School's "Relay for Life" when the Highlanders wrestled West Mifflin Jan. 16.
"George has been a big supporter of Relay for Life, so we held the benefit to raise money for cancer research in his name," Toki said. "We were able to raise $2,000."
Baldwin's Relay for Life will take place June 21-22 at the high school stadium. Anyone who would like to make a donation can contact the high school.
First Published March 1, 2013 12:00 am
