Cranford High School welcomes Mr. VanOostendorp, known as “Coach VO” to his students, as its newest PE teacher. Coach VO loves what he does, describing gym class as being the one break students get from studying. He suggests that his job doesn’t necessarily feel like work because he enjoys activities and is passionate about getting students to love sports. He also asserts that Cranford students seem to enjoy gym class much more than other schools do. With Coach VO’s addition to the school, CHS students get the chance to become more involved in sports. 

Coach VO graduated from Kean University last May and found his place at Cranford High School. He loves the Cranford community and has made a large impact on the student body. Just in his first two months, he has created bonds with many of the high schoolers. During our interview several students came up to Coach VO and said their “hellos.” He creates a welcoming environment within CHS that makes each student feel important and comfortable. 

In gym class the students are playing Speedball, his favorite unit, which combines elements of basketball, handball, ultimate football, and soccer. His students remark that his encouraging and uplifting attitude makes them more enthusiastic and willing to participate. 

 Besides being a PE teacher, VO is also a coach for the Cranford Football team. More specifically, he coaches the offensive and defensive line. According to Coach VO, this season is going well and he states, “Some games are going the way we want and some aren’t.” With a record of 4-4, he explains that the team is now focused on playoffs. 

Already gaining popularity at CHS, Coach VO is off to a fantastic start. The students love him, he’s a key component to the Cranford Football program, and his PE classes are going well: Coach VO is quickly making a lasting impact on the Cranford community.