Nighthawks Football Team

Is A Class Act

To the Editor:

 I would like to comment on the behavior I witnessed at two recent football games.

 First, the Friday, October 6, Newtown vs Bunnell Varsity football game. That evening Newtown lost to Bunnell. I understand there was a lot of tension and yelling during the game, but our boys lost, and they lost with integrity, dignity, and grace. They held their heads up high while they “high-fived” the hands of the opposing team, and left the field.

As a fan in the stands, I couldn’t hear what was being said during the game, but I was shocked to witness a Bunnell player, at the end of the game, go over to the center of the field and rip out a chunk of the emblem as if he were tearing out someone’s heart. Then, as the Bunnell team exited our field, they each spat on what I’ll refer to as the “Nighthawks good luck pole” that each member of our team touches for good luck as they enter the field.

On Saturday, October 7, I also attended the Nighthawks JV game against Bunnell. At this game I could hear the obscenities that were screamed at our players and coaches. At one point, one man (whom I will not quote because you wouldn’t be able to print my letter if I did) yelled about how bad our team was and that they haven’t won a game against Bunnell in years! This man who I thought was an angry parent, I later found out was their varsity coach!

Well, at that point, our boys were losing, but they came back strong after half time and after a few great plays, went on to win the game! The Newtown parents that went to see their boys play were cheering so loud after the first half we could thankfully no longer hear what was being said from the opposing side.

Again, our boys “high-fived” the hands of their opponents saying “good game” and left the field with integrity, dignity, and grace!

 These days everyone is so quick to always point out what our children do wrong but so little is said about what they do right. I would like to commend our coaches for teaching our boys that whether they win or lose, they should do it with class, and respect to their opponents. I just wanted the town to know that they should be very proud to have the coaches and players of the Nighthawks football teams represent their town. I know my sentiments are shared by many when I say I for one am proud to be the parent of a Nighthawks football player.

Kim Shine

4 Edgewood Drive, Newtown                                October 17, 2006