Sunday, Nov. 08, 2009

Players make children feel special

I had the pleasure of attending the Coastal Carolina home game against Virginia Military Institute with my husband and two young sons, ages 4 and 6. That evening we opted to stay after the game so that the boys could go on the field with their friends. It was a grand moment seeing those precious little feet run across the grass toward the big football players. However, the moment became even better as we watched from afar at the reaction of the players to the group of six boys. Each player gave a "high-five" or "fist-bump" as they passed the boys. The boys looked up in awe with the biggest grins ever. Although each player was kind to the children, two players really went out of their way to make it special: Brandon Autry (#30) and Tyler Campbell (#48). They spent so much extra time with the boys - taking pictures, "racing" with the boys, and giving each child a picture or game memento.

As I watched this kindness exhibited on the field, it truly touched my heart. These fine young men could have rushed off the field to follow their own interests, but instead they spent extra time to make it a great night for these young boys. Brandon and Tyler and the other players deserve much applause for putting these children above themselves and taking the time to spend with the boys. If they continue to make such positive choices with such great attitudes, I know they will excel at football and everything else they choose to do in life.

The writer lives in Conway.