Bobby Thomas began his coaching career on a favor.

"I remember when the CYAA (Catasauqua Youth Athletic Association) needed someone to help out in 2002 and 03 and I offered to help," recalled Thomas. "I had helped out once in a while at the high school.

"But from there, I stayed with it and basically worked my way up the ladder to high school. When the high school job opened up, I jumped at it. It has been very satisfying and rewarding all the way through."

Apparently, he wasn't the only one that felt that way. In June, Thomas was named the Colonial League Softball Coach of the Year, notably for his 18-6 overall season in which his club won the Colonial League championship and lost in the District 11 Class 2A championship to Pen Argyl.

Always maintaining a low profile, Thomas normally deflects any personal attributes toward the good of the team.

"It is a great honor to receive something like this, but it isn't possible without the girls," said Thomas, who completed his fifth season at the helm of the program. "They have worked extremely hard over the years and have believed in the system.

"They came through and made it easy at times this year. We grew and learned from each other along the way."

Thomas also had learned the game in his own travels. An Allen High grad who played baseball in high school, Thomas went on to an extensive softball career of his own, as he logged more than 20 years in fastpitch softball with the Allentown Patriots. He was an All-American catcher in 2005 and 2006 and helped the Patriots reach the Class C finals in 2006.

Yet, Thomas doesn't relish his own career. He keeps his focus on his career as a coach.

"I still enjoy playing and I had fun in my career," said Thomas. "I also learned a lot of life lessons and softball during that time. I wanted to bring those with me when I started coaching. I have always taught my players to be respectful in a win or loss.

"We have always been that way and I have heard other teams speak well of us. That has always meant a lot to me."

Thomas cited the play of seniors Jordan Dardas, Paige Kogelman, and Erica Lebron, all of whom progressed and grew through the years leading to the program's first Colonial League crown since 1981.

The league title was a result of the previous three years in which the Roughies had their share of troubles in district play. "Those three players really are what this program is about," noted Thomas. "They came along as freshmen and never gave up working very hard through the years. They helped set the stage for this past season.

"We have had strong seasons over the past few years and that has helped raise awareness in the program. Our middle school team was undefeated and we'll have some girls who will be ready to step in for us next season."

Kogelman was one of many players who were happy to win one for their coach.

"He (Thomas) has done so much for us," said Kogelman. "He is always there for us and is very supportive. He taught us to stay calm and to learn from our mistakes."

Janae Matos, who will return next spring as a senior, also has been appreciative of her coach.

"We were happy for Bobby" said Matos. "He is always there for us and deserved this (league) championship. We want to go on and win districts for him next year."

Thomas admittedly hasn't dealt with a share of parental problems, one that typically cloud a majority of programs. He also doesn't plan to jettison to a larger program, a move typically made after a rash of success.

"No, I like it right where I am right now," said Thomas. "It has been great to work for a guy like (athletic director) Tom Moll, who does everything for you. He is a great guy to work for and there has always been support in the program."

With his success, Thomas doesn't have any plans to change his current status.

"I like the program and like Catty." said Thomas. "We had a great year and there is plenty for us to build on from here. We'll be ready to go back at it when we can and get another shot at Pen Argyl."

Based on his team's history, Thomas should have plenty of more shots.