I was saddened to learn of the medical situation that is forcing Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep football coach Scot Bemis to take an indefinite leave of absence.

Bemis told the azcentral.com Web site that doctors have found an aggressive tumor in the bone near his elbow, and that he will have surgery to help correct the situation.

If anyone can beat this disease, it is Bemis, a former tough-guy player at Tempe McClintock.

He always has treated his players with respect, and respects the game itself. He is one of the class acts of the state’s coaching ranks.

And don’t forget, he has done a great job coaching the NDP girls’ soccer team.

Best wishes, Scot, and hope you can return to the sideline as soon as your health allows.