The date was September 18, 2014. The place was Howe’s football field, or in this case, soccer field. The opponents, the Southside Thunder and The Irvington Preparatory Academy. I was definitely torn. I support and take personal pride in the achievements of the Ravens, but my best friend and former Irvington resident Bruce Fletcher is a parent volunteer for the Thunder. His son James plays for the Thunder. I was present the night James was born and have watched him grow into the fine young man he is, so it was difficult not to root for either team. I decided to root for both teams and take pleasure in the moment.
To say that the field was muddy and sloppy was to say the least. But sometimes that is part of the fun. The players took the field conditions in their stride. When the game started, I couldn’t help but notice the energy and enthusiasm on both sides. These young athletes are playing for love of the game, the thrill of competition and making themselves the best that they can be. They did themselves proud. The Ravens have some skilled players and they gave it their all. Raven coach Garrett Uhlman and his staff have done a marvelous job of instilling teamwork, sportsmanship, and individual achievement into the Raven Players. Irvington can be rightly proud of this team. They were more than matched by the Thunder players, however. Coach Elizabeth Beaseley and her staff have put together a team of young people who can play the game at a winning level and with pride and a solid sense of fair play. Getting to watch these young athletes compete and play with a sense of joy is one of this best perks of my job. It was a wonderfully played game that was a joy to watch. The Thunder won the match 3-2. Being a good loser is important, but being a good winner is equally so. Both teams took the outcome of the game with maturity and the understanding that the important thing is to do your best.
The Southside Thunder team is comprised of home schooled students who love athletic competition. Parent volunteers and supporters are essential to the operation of the team. I can’t say enough about the parents of the players of both teams. Without them there would be no teams. I also want to give a hats off to the officials Donald Williams. Abo Karath, and Ted Becket. They did a great job of keeping the game moving and not impeding it’s progress. I have seen a number of events where the officials seemed to be on a power trip and forget that it’s about the players not them. The three refs in this case were there for the kids.
Folks, if you love sports, take in a Thunder or a Ravens game. It’s the best kind of spectator fun.
snicewanger@yahoo.com
