To the Editor:
On a recent Saturday morning I picked up the Sports Section as I always do and noted the Caroline High School football team had lost…again. A perfect season…no wins. And then it occurred to me that there was something much more significant here than a losing season.
Coach Yates, his staff, and players had played their hearts out through a tough season. They went to every practice. They took the hits, injuries and cuts, gutted it out…and lost on Friday night. Yet the next Monday they were back at practice committed, dedicated, and ready to do it again. Pride in themselves, pride in their teammates, and pride in their school. That’s real courage.
Everyone in Caroline County should tip their hats to these young men. The school should consider giving each player his numbered jersey to wear as a badge of honor. At the very least every young person on the team at the end of the season should get a Varsity letter.
To the players: The lessons you learned on the playing field this season will serve you well in whatever work you pursue as adults. Put this season on your resume and I’ll hire you. Truly, each of you can look anyone you meet in the eye and say, “I didn’t quit!”
J. D. Cotter, Ph.D.
Ruther Glen