Support our football league

Wow, I guess it does no good to leave town for awhile. I am shocked to see the back and forth opinions over the Oak Harbor Football League.

First of all let me say this is a town that is respectful of every member of this community whether you have been here long or just got here yesterday. However, respect is a two way street. Being from a military family myself, being a single parent, and living in this town all my life I take offense to the comment, “A community that shows no respect for the people (military families).” That is so far from the truth it really does not even deserve and educated response.

Secondly and most importantly, I have had a child in the OHYFL for the past four years going on five this season and would never allow them to be part of any program that was not ethical. I don’t need to question where the money goes because it is obvious. I have been the team snack mom for two years and never accepted a penny from any parent to purchase the items. Why? Because I wanted to give something to the team myself and I wanted any money collected to be used toward the kids’ trophies and end-of-season party. I guess I should have asked to look at the books and verify every penny but then again I trust the committee. If I didn’t I would not have my kids involved in the program.

The coaches who volunteer their time are out there after working full shifts or will be heading to work after the practice is over. They are human beings who are giving something to these kids, our kids, to build on as being part of a team, learning football skills, sportsmanship, etc.

I think it is a sad day for this community when we lose focus on why our kids are on the field, when the politics among adults triumph over the kids’ learning, loving a sport, nurturing and building friendships.

I teach my kids that if you stand up to nothing then you will fall for anything. I’m not sure what field the disgruntled parents are fighting on or what all they are fighting about but please keep it away from our kids. Some of us actually do like the program, support it and will continue to do so.

No one forces us to have our children in the program. If you don’t like it leave but don’t throw the community under the bus you are driving to make your point.

Raina Girton

Oak Harbor