Fielder’s Choice - Barry Burleson


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Fielder’s Choice
By Barry Burleson

Let’s support our children

I cannot recall the home side having fewer fans than the visitor side when I was in high school.

The Hamilton, Ala., parents and fans supported their teams - be it football, basketball, baseball, whatever the sport.

I haven’t made it back for a game there in several years, but I have faith that’s still the case.

In a “Letter to the Editor” last week, Fergenia Hood of Holly Springs ended with these words “After all, the student comes first.”

The fantastic letter focused on the importance of parents being involved in the achievements of their children.

And to go even deeper, she said each of us should have a vested interest in the education of each child.

I totally agree.

And I also believe that education, as I’m sure she does, extends beyond the classroom. It includes extra-curricular activities like athletics, band, chorus and so on.

I recently told my wife that we might could retire if we had all the gas money back that we spent over the years going to the activities of our two older children, who are now in college.

I was joking, of course. The money means nothing. Seeing our kids grow up and participate and mature meant everything to us.

My dad died when I was 10. My mom was employed at a garment plant from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. It was hard work.

But I could always count on her support - encouraging me to study and always do my best, be it in the classroom or in athletic competition. Sure, she had to miss some games, but it was rare. I could count on her being in the stands.

When I go to some activities at high schools in our county, I am curious as to why all the empty seats. I often wonder if even the parents are there to cheer for their children.

Ironically, after Fergenia Hood’s “Letter to the Editor” last week, I received this text Sunday from John Danley, head coach of the Byhalia football team.

His Indians improved to 5-4 Friday night by knocking off tradition-rich Winona, and they’re in the hunt for a home playoff game in the first round.

First up, Danley thanked superintendent Jerry Moore, who was on the sideline for the second half Friday night.

“He (Moore) has been very supportive of me and our football program,” Danley wrote. “I know it’s a great feeling for the kids to look over their shoulders and see the superintendent on the sideline rooting for them.”

Then he made a plea on behalf of his players.

“Now we need to get the rest of the community to support the kids. It was an embarrassment a few weeks ago to see Charleston fans travel two hours to support their football team and have more people in our stadium than we had.”

Last week, Fergenia Hood wrote - “Students who have Mom and Dad engaged in their education perform at a much higher rate than other students. The children of moms and dads who take an interest in homework and visit the school enjoy a greater success rate.”

I totally agree.

The same holds true for extracurricular activities, like sports.

Support our children - win or lose - and our children and ourselves will be better because of it.

They grow up fast. We can’t make up the lost time together once they’re gone.

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