Now, you may think that – sure, there are thousands of kids across the United States that go through the same painstaking training. What is so special about the senior football players at Winder-Barrow High School? As a parent of one of them I can only tell you how I perceive them.
Everyone who follows, even slightly, the local politics of high school football, knows the recent history of the Winder Barrow football program. With so many changes in this program, the only thing that has been constant is the commitment of these young men who have endured it all through the last four years. I doubt…no, I know that not even the coaches, past and present, understand what these young men have gone through. Even with the drama of the politics of the program (we all know what goes on among the coaches, the teachers, the Booster Club, and the parents) - they are steady. They are dedicated.
However, I tell you, they do not want anyone’s sympathy. They want respect. They should have it. I don’t know many people, old or young, who can keep coming back week after week, year after year, not quite being able to reach that goal that they set for themselves. These young men have more integrity, more resilience than most adults that I know. Their spirits may weaken a little, just temporarily, but it is never crushed, never destroyed. After all, what is the true test of an athlete’s fortitude? To win or to lose? This passion is what will make them very dangerous in the next few weeks. Don’t underestimate that spirit.
So, what makes them come back? What makes them persist? Two things: the love of the game and the love for each other. A few weeks ago, my son and I visited Shorter College. We listened to Coach Jones share his football philosophy. His message was simple. It all comes down to relationships… the relationships that are built on the field among the players. The trust that comes from depending on your teammate is essential. I guarantee you will not find a stronger, closer football family out there – even in your more successful programs.
From adversity, comes strength. When I look around at this country, this county, this city – it whittles away at my hope for our future. But it only takes one moment of seeing these boys together to restore my hope. If they represent our future, then I know we can withstand anything.
Sandy Dufresne
Winder, GA
Truth about Riley campaign
To The Editor:
Recent activity for Tim Riley (D) for State Senate is designed to deceive voters into thinking he has strong GOP support. Campaign signs are everywhere. Dr. Riley does not want us to know he is a Democrat.
Per his web site, he is supported by Democracy for America, whose web site says they “are working everyday to build a stronger, more progressive Democratic Party.” Riley is also endorsed by the Atlanta Stonewall Democrats, “the metro area’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and ally Democratic community,” per their web site.
If the Republicans for Dr. Tim Riley web site (shown on the signs) infers a group independent from his Democratic campaign, why does it show on his own Democratic web site? Republican names are not listed, though former Republican candidate, now Independent Doug Bower has endorsed Riley. And the photos of Sarah Palin, Karen Handel, and Bob Dole – it is inconceivable to believe they support Riley’s candidacy. Pictures used without authorization?
If voters agree with Riley’s Democratic stances on issues, then he is their choice. If they are looking for someone who has more conservative, less government stances, then they should choose his Republican opponent.
The State GOP and all of the local County GOPs in this State Senate 47 district support the only Republican and best candidate on the November 2 ballot. Vote for Republican Frank Ginn.
Sincerely,
Ken Young
Chairman Barrow County Republican Party
www.barrowgop.org now on Facebook
