Letters of Recommendation

Duke,
Having done this for a long time, what has always proven best, imo is to be above all else honest, forthright, concise. Do not go on at length about what a great coach, man, etc. your friend is. State the facts, let them make their decision without undue, superflous, oratory. I always try to put myself in the decision makers place and ask myself, would I appreciate this letter or is it a bit much? Example below:

Dear Sir:

My name is J.C.Easton. I am the head coach of the georgia tigers, a professional minor league football organization.
It has been my privilege to have coach ------------- on my staff for the last 5 years. I consider it a privilege to have been asked to draft this letter of reccomendation for coach--------.
I have found that he is a very knowledgeable individual in his area of expertise, that of coaching Quarterbacks.
His loyalty to me, to the team, and to the entire organization is not to be questioned.
His work ethic is exemplirary, not only to the players, but to my entire staff as well.
His communication skills are of the standard that makes it quite easy for his players to readily understand
exactly what it is the coach is trying to convey to them in that particular facet of their game plan, on any given day.
He is a person of good moral report. He is respected not only here on campus but by the citizenry of our community as well. He is actively engaged in (list any community or school special project groups to which he may belong here). He is a dedicated family man with x number of children (if applicable). His wife is very supportive of this proposed new direction of his career.
Knowing coach-----------, as I do, I am most delighted in offering this testament of his contributions to our program in the years he has faithfully served with us.

Sincerely In Football,

Coach J.C.Easton PS: Just my way, hope it helps