What’s the first thing you think of when you hear the name, “The Coach”?
Locally, it can only be one person. Like celebrities who are instantly known for their one-name identities — Cher, Madonna, or Bono, George DeMaio is recognized by two words, “the Coach.”
He may be the most respected and trusted sports guy in CT, covering a myriad of sporting events from little league and legion ball games to all of the High School sports. For example, you’ve seen him at his table in the corner of the court at the Amity basketball games broadcasting live on WELI 960 and ESPN Radio 1300-AM.
But sports isn’t the only thing George is passionate about, he also is a devoted adoptive dad to “hurricane” dogs.
Wally the Pomeranian was first. He came from Georgia and quickly bonded with his new dad, “the Coach.” The two were inseparable for several years, with the little white pup accompanying George to baseball games and on family vacations to Maine.
Sadly, it was during one of those Maine vacations in August 2017 that the Coach lost his boy. Wally woke up screaming in pain and the DeMaios brought him to an emergency clinic, but he couldn’t be saved. Their hearts broken, George’s wife said, “No more dogs.”
Soon after, during another devastating hurricane season George saw a cute little pup that was up for adoption at a Texas Shelter. He was waiting anxiously to hear when the dog would be boarding a plane to Massachusetts when Hurricane Harvey hit the Lone Star State, and the transport was delayed until the weather cleared.
A rescue group in Willimantic brought in a bunch of dogs from Texas, and that pup the Coach fell in love with was among them.
George picked the little terrier mix up on Sept. 12, 2017, and named his new son Willy George DeMaio.
Willy is a perfect match for this family, he shares a birthday with George’s father, Feb. 14th, Valentine’s Day. He’s socialized, well behaved and he loves going everywhere with his dad.
Willy is 4-years old and he’s been with the DeMaios for the past two years. He didn’t replace Wally, but he does fill the hole left in their hearts. This is what adoption does.
The Coach recommends adopting your next boy or girl from a shelter and giving him or her a chance at a full and happy life. He knows first-hand how both young and senior dogs can bring joy into your life. He foresees many happy years ahead with Willy, visiting Maine, watching games, and snuggling on the sofa.
If you are looking for a new companion, follow Coach DeMaio’s lead and check out the listings for a dog in need of a home at a shelter. Some have issues to work through, but most will give you unconditional love for many years to come.
If you are an adoptive pet parent and would like to have your companion featured here, give us a call at 203-506-1747 and leave a message, or send an e-mail and photos to orangectlive01@gmail.com.