Gotta shout out all the Champions in the OHSAA Football playoffs and indeed then I have a challenge for all the young men, coaches, staff, and the schools!
CONGRATS to the State Champs especially those in NE Ohio plus lo and behold, 5 of the 7 Champions are public schools! WAIT A SECOND…too many of you have said this could not happen, the playoffs were not fair. QYB!
Here we go…
* DI – St. Edward won their 3rd Championship in a row! CONGRATS to a great man and pretty darn good HS Tom Lombardo and the program!
* DII – Massillon Washington wears the crown and I am so happy for the great American city of Massillon. Also happy for the Tigers that the list of Championships gets updated as a “2023” will be added to the signage!
* DIII – Toledo Central Catholic moves down a division and handles their business. Good for them.
* DIV – I heard WHACK, THUD AND TARBLOOD all the way in Lorain County from Canton last night as Ted Ginn Sr’s young men got the job done. So happy and ecstatic for this squad.
* DV – C’mon Perry Pirates. The first OHSAA State Championship will proudly be displayed as these young men vanquished their foes and truly made them walk the plank!
* DVI – Tiger LaVerde and his Hornets continue to earn championships through talent, hard work, and FAMILY!! One note to the opposition: This team just may be better in 2024!
* DVII – Marion Local is a powerhouse, a proverbial High School juggernaut on the gridiron. The FLYERS used an 80-yard PICK SIX and a 64-yard punt return to earn their title.
Now for my challenge and I am going to start with the adults. First and foremost, SUPPORT YOUR STUDENT ATHLETES as well as your STUDENTS! I have been to so many games this year where there are no teachers or staff in the stands! It’s called #RespectAndManners or as Spike Lee would say “DO THE RIGHT THING”! Now for the Coaches…SET AN EXAMPLE for the young men on your team! SIMPLE! Now for the players…you are CHAMPIONS and will be for the rest of your lives…NOW BE CHAMPIONS IN LIFE! Stop bullies – stick up for those weaker, older, younger, or incapable of standing up for themselves and most importantly put Women on a pedestal, including those who care for you on a daily basis. JUST DO THIS! Be role models, show respect and you will in turn you will get respect. I know you will and can do this. ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE!
Just a reminder to all of us to take care of each other and yes, it’s your world, pay attention. Enjoy every sandwich friend and for now Adios Amigo, long may you run!
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Bill Petrello
December 3, 2023 at 8:31 pm
Well said! And Perry’s first state SHIP? How cool is that?