Win or lose: Plainsmen Pride!
So, the outcome wasn’t the one we were hoping for. The excitement left faster than it came and the Plainsmen boys lost their “big game.”
For me though, in the grand scheme of life, I’d really like to believe these boys came out winners.
Did they get the C-2 title they were hoping for? No. But the experience alone is something worth remembering. They made it to state. The first team from PC in 10 years. And this group of boys. This team. They did it…...And they lost.
BUT, that’s the stuff that builds character and sets you up for life. Real life. It’s not always easy and you don’t always win, but sometimes there is something more important than winning or losing the game. Sometimes it’s the ride that gets you there, (and the ride home) that will end up being the life-long memories you cherish.
These boys can look back on this experience and be proud to tell the story about how they were the first team in a decade to make it to state. And maybe, (not yet, it’s probably too soon) they can even laugh about getting their butts kicked.
They can be proud of their 16-8 season that brought Coach Cole his 100th win and counting. It’s part of their story. For the rest of their lives. And if I have learned anything living in this town, it’s the tradition, and the value of these activities and accomplishments that run deep. These things are all pieces in the story of Perkins County.
Win or lose, this is a tradition. If any one of the players looked up in the stands at any point on Thursday (they probably didn’t, because you know, priorities…but if they did) they would have seen that tradition right there in that gym.
Coaches, players, cheerleaders, fans. Past. Present. And Future! In attendance, cheering for their favorite hometown team, were countless Plainsmen, young and old. From legendary Coach Pritchett, to former star player Bill Jackman, all the way down to Myles Bishop, a PC fourth grader who I can say without much hesitation, just might be the Plainsmen’s number one fan.
The love and support for our Plainsmen is immeasurable. The past, present and future of the team, could not only be seen, but it could be felt right there at Lincoln Southeast.
After the game, a tough loss and several broken hearts, someone, cheerfully said “I hope my boys are here playing some day!” And that’s what it’s all about. That Plainsmen Pride. That tradition. That legacy.
I may not have been a Plainsmen, but I have caught that Plainsmen pride, and let me tell you, it’s really something special.