Thursday 30 April 2009

A story of hope

Chris Hogan's Faith Christian School football team vs. the Tornadoes of the Gainesville State School (Juvenile Delinquents) in a maximum security facility.
A story of selflessness and joy. The video tells it all, but the link gives some more details:

But there is one football team in Texas that is a little different. When they play on Friday night, their stands are empty, no band, no cheerleaders, no mass of parents or townsfolk wearing the school colors and waving banners and flags. They take the field without anyone cheering them on. When they score a touchdown, which rarely happens, there is no wild celebration behind them… All of it seems hollow and muffled in contrast to the tidal wave of roars and drums and chants that come from the opposing side.

The coach/principal insisted that his families, from the Christian school, act as the visiting team's 'family' and cheer them on. He divided them up in half. The Tornado players were used to playing on the road, with no fans or family around. They were paying for their mistakes, and will do so for years.

This is what one man, a courageous leader, can do.

"Kids from two Texas high schools learn how football can impact life beyond the field, thanks to one game. Story and Coverage by Matt Barrie, NBC Sports, Dallas-Fortworth, TX."

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