Supporting Smart, Morehead football

By Published by The Editorial Board

Published: October 27, 2008

This letter is in response to Mr. Anthony “Tyrone” Scales’ letter regarding the Morehead High School football program. First of all, Mr. Scales has every right to voice his opinion, and he may speak for some, but he does not speak for the entire community in his criticism of Coach Jason Smart and the football program. It’s easy to sit in the stands and criticize the coach, but there were cracks in the Morehead program long before Coach Smart took over.
I will admit right up front that I don’t know the first thing about coaching football. However, I love the game, I support the Morehead football program, and I believe Coach Smart and all the coaches are doing their best for our kids. These coaches – paid and volunteer – put long hours and hard work into the program. They are not just coaches, but teachers and mentors, helping to develop not just football skills, but values of character, dedication and teamwork that these young men will carry with them long after they leave the football field.
This has been a very hard year for the Panthers, which is all the more reason why MHS supporters need to get behind them and show our support. The only “support” I have ever heard from Mr. Scales is his very loud criticism from the stands. The timing of his letter only serves to further demoralize the team and coaches.
I’m sure that Mr. Scales wants the team to do well – obviously, we all do. However, winning isn’t everything. The kids on this team have stuck it out through good times and bad – and not just this season. They have given everything they’ve got. They – and their coaches – are to be commended.
A good friend of mine, who was an avid football fan, once told me when his team was suffering through a tough season: “You’ve gotta love ‘em when they’re down.” Truer words were never spoken. It is my hope that the entire community, including Mr. Scales, will get behind this team and their coaching staff and show them that this community does support Morehead football, win or lose.
Debbie Galloway
Eden, NC 27288