Simi Valley Loses a Great Man, but Gains a Legacy…

It is with profound sadness that I convey to you the loss of not only a great man, but also one who was regarded by many as the “godfather of youth football” in Simi Valley - Jim Thornton. Jim passed away on Monday, August 20th shortly after 4:00 pm. Jim is survived by his wife (Sharon), three adult sons (Jim “Jimmers”, Robert and Mike), and one adult daughter (Lindsey).

Jim dedicated over three decades of his life to youth football in Simi Valley. He played and will continue to play a big part in the hearts of many men and young boys who benefited from his coaching and administrative contributions.

I met Jim a little over three years ago when he and Ken Williams decided to start a new team - the Simi Valley Patriots youth football program. Prior to this, Jim had already served for over 30 years with the Simi Valley Vikings organization while they were still affiliated with the PYFL, until they decided to branch off and join another league. As a result, Jim was determined to continue to provide a youth football program that would meet the high standards held by the PYFL. I was offered the opportunity to assist with the implementation of this new program; hence, I met the man, Jim Thornton. Upon meeting Jim, I immediately took a liking to his no nonsense personality. I can best describe it as a, “Just allow the kids to play football” attitude – and that’s the attitude more coaches need to have today!

I’ll tell you something; Jim was a really tough coach with a really soft heart! He truly had a heart for the kids. Although I only knew Jim three years, I quickly learned of his love for the game of football and his love and concern for the welfare of the kids he coached. My only regret is something that I had no control over - I only wish I had known him longer.

The only comfort, if you will, that I do find in his passing was the opportunity I had at the hospital to hold his hand, make eye contact with him, and to not only share the gospel with him, but to have him respond with a faith in Jesus Christ.

It’s a true honor to dedicate the 2007 season to his memory. It is also with great honor that I credit him with the founding of the Simi Valley Patriots, which will continue to, as Jim envisioned, carry on the tradition of dedication and commitment for the youth of Simi Valley.

Steve Aguilar
Vice President, Simi Valley Patriots