Got an email from a Smithville football supporter this morning concerning a letter the school received in the mail from an official who refereed at Coldwater last Friday. Speaks highly for the Seminoles and their staff. Here it is, though for confidentiality I’ve left out the name of the sender.
Very nice to take the time to send something like this as well. Much easier to complain most of the time.
“I felt it imperiative that I write and express some thought about the game this past Friday night. I’d like to also to put a disclaimer that I in no way am representing the MHSAA or the Northwest Football Association in which I am a member in good standing. I do not want to be offensive to any member of your team, coaching staff, school or school district in which you belong and would ask that you receive my comments as a person who loves the game of football and especially student athletes.
This past Friday night was one of the highlights of my career. From my initial viewing of your team in warm-ups, the speaking with the captains, to the actual playing of the game, I have new seen a team or coaching staff that represented the love of God as what I witnessed. I personally observed so many attributes that exemplify Christ during the game. I must mention your captains, # 21 and #22 (sorry I do not remember their names). On more than ten occasions I heard them say loudly and proudly, “all the glory belongs to God.” Many of these occasions were after being hit very hard! Others were after long runs and touchdowns. I witnessed your team assisting Coldwater player to their feet after tackling them, patting them on the back congratulating them on their efforts. I saw a bonding and cohesiveness among your student athletes that is rare.
With the tragic events of the tornado that wrecked your campus and community, I am encouraged that out of the storm, a strong remnant of young men have emerged. I wish you and your team nothing but the best the remainder of the football season. Your team, staff, fans and community have much to be thankful for. You won the ballgame Friday nite but you encouraged a brother in Christ with the hope that our future is in good hands.”
