Today’s Football Chronicles…
I witnessed one of THEE MOST poorly officiated games in my history of spectating during last night’s game between East Forsyth and Grimsley. My dad was/is a ref and I always wanted to be one so I am sensitive to the job they have. Many are still learning. Even though there is always more than one, they still can’t see everything on the field…OR SO I THOUGHT. The refs last night saw so much, they started seeing stuff that wasn’t there. First time I witnessed offensive facemask penalities. It was HORRIBLE! Only to learn parents and fans have been dealing with this all season because East is the most penalized team. There had to be at least 1,000 penalty yards.
Y’all already know they won. What I came to talk about was the level of maturity I witnessed in a team of teens who can teach people of all ages. I learned and always preach…the game is 95% mental. Once you lose your cool/focus, it’s hard to keep the talent together. East displayed unbelievable focus, they encouraged each other like teammates should and they left it all on the field. The referee’s actions were life lessons for them and reminders to us in the stands.
I missed seeing Yolonda and Paul Childs’ middle son at this level because I was working last year. Their baby boy played last night and continues to warm my heart. He quickly skipped over my congratulatory remarks to ask how I was doing? “I like your hair. I see you in your lil’ glasses.” What teen says stuff like that after a football game you ask? You have to know his parents.
Going to rearrange some things to go support these young men next week. They earned their spot and deserve everything good that’s coming to them…