WJ building service worker and assistant football coach Frank De Las Casas was named MCPS’s RAISE Champion of the Year on April 2.
An award given by the county athletics department, the recipient is a leader who is found displaying the R.A.I.S.E. core values of Respect & Sportsmanship, Academic Excellence, Integrity & Character, Spirit & Safety and Equity & Access.
“I was shocked to win,” De Las Casas said. “(The reason I’m able to strive is) this environment; WJ is like a family.”
Athletic Specialist Larry Hurd Jr. nominated De Las Casas, citing his personality in all aspects of his job at WJ.
“He’s the perfect person for this award,” Hurd said. “He’s selfless. He gives himself to the students, teachers and coaches. He does whatever it takes to make sure all events are successful. He’s been doing that for over twenty years in Montgomery County. And, he is just an incredible person, and we’re so happy to have him here at Walter Johnson.”
Aside from being a building service worker, De Las Casas also serves a vital role as an assistant football coach for WJ.
“I think he really cares about the kids, being a football coach,” junior football player Andrew Corrado said. “He’s a really nice person and he’s really great at WJ.”
Many of his fellow coaches, athletes and players have described him as a great role model for their growth as athletes, both routinely and on the field.
“He showed up every day, no matter what his role was at practice in the offseason. He was always there for us. Knowing that he’d get up every morning and support us and help us out helped me get out of bed every morning and show up every day ready to work. I thought (the award) was really well deserved,” senior football player Jonathan Fisher said.
De Las Casas speaks to the importance and value of the RAISE award.
‘Coach Frank’, as his players call him, works hard to instill a positive attitude in his players.
“Coaching football is all about seeing the enjoyment of the players, how they react and play. Being a coach is to be a great role model for all players. I tell all my players to be positive and succeed the best. I try to help them be young leaders,” De Las Casas said.
