Every teacher hopes to leave an impression on the students they teach. Coach Robin Colcchio has achieved that goal in his 16 years with Bryan ISD by not only fostering the minds of students in the classroom and abilities on the golf course, but by helping start the girl’s soccer program during the 1995-1996 school year.
“I was coaching boys soccer for Brenham in 1995 and coached against Bryan several times that season,” Colicchio said. “I became acquainted with the coaches in Bryan and they informed me Bryan was starting a girls’ program the next year, so I applied.”
Building a program from the ground up can create its share of obstacles.
“It was a challenge for sure,” Colicchio said. “Ordering equipment, uniforms, and everything else for a team that did not exist the year before was difficult.”
Other teachers see how Colicchio has influenced students to achieve great things.
“I think Mr. Colicchio has impacted his students by encouraging [them] to work beyond their perceived potential and provide them opportunities to grow both academically and physically,” science teacher Colleen Holmes said.
Colicchio’s favorite part of being in the classroom has been seeing students comprehend what is being taught.
“I enjoy watching the kid’s faces when that light bulb comes on when they finally understand something or learn something new,” Colicchio said.
Even though he has certifications in other subjects, Colicchio has chosen to teach different sciences, including Aquatic Science, Environmental Science and Earth-Space Science throughout his career.
“Teaching various science classes over the years has helped me stay fresh and excited about new topics as I learn with the students about new discoveries and current advancements in many different disciplines,” Colicchio said. “It’s taken me a long time to appreciate just how interconnected the different parts of the world are. We need to realize our resources are not infinite and be better stewards of our fragile world.”
Besides being a science teacher, Colicchio is also the assistant coach for the Viking golf team.
“Officially, this is my fourth year, but I’ve been helping out in the golf program for about 12 years,” Colicchio said.
Colicchio’s sports background, similar to his science background, is extensive.
“I’ve always been athletic. I’ve coached volleyball, basketball, soccer and now I’m in golf. I like being active,” Colicchio said.
Colicchio’s favorite part about teaching is getting to know students and teachers on a personal level.
“I enjoy the relationships that I have with the students and with my fellow teachers,” Colicchio said. “Bryan High is just a building, but a building that contains the relationships I have with people.”