Paul Demsher is a well noticed figure around the halls of Tracy with his six feet seven inch stature, but who knew the boys’ tennis coach had such audacious hobbies that are seen so exciting to many? After teaching on campus for 25 years, Demsher said it is seeing positive change in students that keeps him so motivated.

What classes do you teach? “I have a special education class, and I teach all of the core subjects in that class. Prior to teaching at Tracy, I was at Children’s Home of Stockton, a non-public school which serves the needs of emotionally disturbed adolescents.”

What college did you attend? “I went to University of the Pacific (UOP) in Stockton where I received my B.A. in English and History, and M.A. in Education and my teaching credential, as well.”

Did you play sports at the collegiate level? “Yes, I played basketball at UOP on a scholarship from 1976-1980. I played forward. I learned that playing college sports is a great way to get a good education. Ha! It also taught me a lot about learning to work as a team. I played with a group of teammates that were great, and some of us are still very good friends. We had good success. My junior year we went to the PCAA tournament, the league tournament, and the first round of the PCAA’s. Unfortunately, we lost in the first round, but the other team was definitely better than us.”

Do you have any hobbies? “Many! I am a fly fisherman, hunter, am in a tennis league, and I really enjoy traveling. Now as to one I would pick as my favorite, I do not know that I enjoy one the most. I try to keep busy so all of my activities are done very often.”

What are your guilty pleasures? “Ha, lately it has been Los Potros at lunch time. In general, anything with chocolate I love.”

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment so far in life? “Pff, I have no idea. Good question at this point. Probably 25 years at Tracy High is one of them. Helping students succeed at one establishment for this long is such a great feeling.”

Is there something about you that’s unique from everyone else? “I would say my height. It is something a lot of people pay attention to and comment on.”

What is the best advice that you’ve ever received? (Asked his students what rule number two is in their classroom) “Look beyond the tip of your nose. That advice, solely, has had such an impact on my life, and I want it to be my students’ way of thinking as well.”

What is the best trip you have ever taken? “Oh, that’s hard! (Long pause) I have to think about that for a minute…I’d have to say kayaking Glacier Bay in Alaska, it was an unforgettable experience. There were so many amazing things to see there, definitely a trip worthwhile.”

What did you want to grow up to be when you were a kid? “I’m trying to think back, there were definitely a lot of them. Like any little kid, a fireman is what I wanted to be. Of course, seeing the firemen in the big truck was awesome for a little kid.”

Gallery • 2 Photos

Paul Demsher holding a fish he caught in Sitka, Alaska.