I'm sure by now everyone has heard of the tragic death of the 17year-old student-athlete from Newbury Park High School and the serious injuries suffered by four others in a singlecar accident on PCH.

Reading the newspaper I learned that drugs and alcohol contributed to the accident. The newspaper contains quotes from friends, teachers and others how great and wonderful this young man was, how his death was like losing a part of the family.

If he was like family and if everyone loved him, then I hope that at some time these same people told him not to use alcohol or drugs. If they didn't, then that is a tragedy in itself.

I'm not going to make that mistake. I'm writing everyone on my team- - and your parents- - because I care about you. We use golf to try and teach the lessons that you will carry with you the rest of your life. And the most important lesson is- make the right decision.

Whether you are on the golf course, at school, at home or out on the town, you will always be faced with choices. Sometimes making the wrong choice will have little consequence. And in some instances making the wrong choice can cost you your life.

Since I've lived in this community there have been way too many avoidable deaths of young people, simply because they made the wrong choices. Some of those people have been close to us. Each time, I hope that maybe others will learn from their mistakes. I hope you have.

Bruce Beck Oak Park High golf coach