Hot Shot tourney brings back memories of Ei

I certainly don’t remember everything about my childhood.

I suppose it’s true what they say; memories begin to fade with age. However, on occasion subtle reminders can help resurface the simplest joys and recollections. Every year, the Bill Eisenwinter Hot Shot Tournament in Coeur d’Alene rejuvenates and stimulates my senses while reviving a treasure chest of youthful memories.

I only played a few years of AYSO soccer. Basketball and baseball were my main sports of interest.

The tournament reminds me of something far beyond soccer. It reminds me of growing up in Claremont, Calif., our hometown. The wiener dog attack, the wicked bike wreck on Mt. Baldy, the first time we laughed so hard that stuff came out of our noses, the races down Potato Mountain, our first teams, our first dates, our first secret sip of warm beer and the overall thoughts of a well-fulfilled youth.

It reminds me of my best friend, Bill. Separated by only four houses south and three houses east, we were always side-by-side since kindergarten. Along with Michael Mabie, the third musketeer, we climbed every fence, swam every pool, biked every street and played every sport ... together. I wish I had a daily column just to share the many, many wonderful stories that deluge my soul, especially around tournament time.

Bill was often my personal savior during several times of serious bodily injury and always a level head to turn to during times of adolescent turmoil. Looking back now, he was a coach from the beginning. With an extremely exceptional blend of total competitiveness, patience and always the utmost model of sportsmanship, Bill was, and still is, a unique guiding example to everyone he touched.

Bright and confident, Bill was a beacon with gravitational pull. He hid from none and was so cherished by all. He had a genuine way of making everybody feel joy while in his presence, not by trying, just by being natural.

I’ve always held an extra special feeling inside, privileged for knowing he was once my very close, personal and best friend. I miss him very much. Even though we had unfortunately lost touch in later years, I know if I’m lucky enough to make it to some great beyond, he’ll be standing by to ease my trepidation and make sure I get checked in OK. That’s just the way he is.

The Bill Eisenwinter Hot Shot Tournament does not keep his memory alive; Bill did that entirely on his own. The tournament annually aids a resurgence of endless stories, happiness, laughter and love that Bill left upon everyone who knew him. I know his lively personality and uplifting spirit filled so many people with only the fondest memories and a strengthened gratitude for having known him.

I’d like to thank all the coordinators, sponsors, spectators and participants. Without ever witnessing a single goal, the tournament has always brought me the deepest tears of joy. I hope to make it in person one day and cheerfully observe his brightened Idaho path.

Michael Finnegan lives in Bemidji, Minn. Bill Eisenwinter was a longtime Coeur d’Alene Sting, high school and North Idaho College soccer coach, and one of the driving forces behind the Hot Shot Tournament. Eisenwinter died in 2003.