By Madison Waldie Posted December 14, 2011
At any sporting event, there are many different types of people. The players and coaches are on the field, and the fans are showing their pride in the stands. Those are the three main groups recognized at most football, basketball, and baseball games. Even at a small division 3A high school like Lowry, we don’t think of much more than, our players in the blue and gold, their coaches on the field, and the numerous parents and proud students that fill up the bleachers on a Friday night.
A true team runs on much more than the players, coaches, and fans though. If you look down at the sidelines during any professional, college, or high-school football game there are multiple people running with water bottles, first-aid bags, or just offering a pat on the back to the guys as they run off the field after a game.
The parents and guardians that make sure athletes have everything that they need to be able to play, and play well are also part of the team in my eyes. How well could one perform if they didn’t have the proper footwear, nourishment, and a place to call home? That is where a parent’s support; both mentally and financially, makes them a vital part of the team.
Seventh-grader Jacob Hernandez spends his Friday nights along the sidelines at the Jerry Tobin football field. A group of boys in blue and gold jerseys does not necessarily embody a team. Teams normally have members with complementary skills and generate an alliance through a coordinated effort for a cause that allows each member to maximize their strengths and minimize their weaknesses. This includes the middle-school-aged kids that spend their time filling up water bottles and guarantee that as the players come off the field they have a drink of water and a high-five. This includes the pep band, fans, and cheerleaders that go wild after every touchdown to ensure that the defensive line will be motivated to do their best and keep a winning score on the board for Lowry.
