To the editor:
Houlton is a town that I am proud to call my home. I have lived in this town for almost six years, and in that time I have found the people of Houlton to have a strong sense of community, an unwavering spirit in giving of themselves, and the undeniable ability to come together in times of need.
The Houlton Football Program needs that fighting spirit now. Many are not aware of this, but the program is entirely funded by the Houlton Football Association themselves. Our amazing coaches volunteer their time because they believe in the program, and the benefits that it gives to our children. Up until we joined the Maine Principals’ Association, Aroostook County was the only county in the lower 48 that did not have a varsity football team. Houlton High School had not had a varsity team since 1950. Head Coach Brian Reynolds led the varsity team to a successful first year in 2014. The varsity team was also awarded “Best Sportsmanship” in the Class “D” East competition. This award speaks of the class and dedication shown by our players and coaches.
I had the pleasure of speaking to several of the former football players in the past week. The overwhelming consensus is that having the opportunity to play football changed their lives, helped to prepare them for life’s challenges, gave them confidence, and allowed them to form life-long bonds of friendship with other players as well as their coaches.
Quinn Harris had this to say, “Football became much more than I realized it would be. You learn to balance the physical and cognitive aspects of the game. I used that off the field when it came to balancing college and everything that life has thrown at me. The relationships I’ve had along the way top it all. Without football, I’d never have met my best friend who I coach football with today. We made that bond through football.”
“The football program gave a lot to me, but I think it gave a lot to everyone. I have teammates who have served our country, graduated college, have careers, and work regular jobs. I think much of it can be equated with the football program. More opportunities in high school can give kids a more positive outlook on the area. Football is one of those opportunities,” he added.
Josh Bragan said, “Football built work ethic. It was easy to stay positive and keep going when you were tired. There was always someone there to pick you up and push you when you thought you had nothing left to give. It wasn’t a team, it was a family.”
We are a family, and we are united in making the program the best it can possibly be. We ask for help from the community to make the 2015 football season a successful one by supporting our upcoming fundraisers. We also encourage you to come out to our home games, and see for yourselves how passionate we are about the game of football.
“Football is an honest game. It’s true to life. It’s a game about sharing. Football is a team game. So is life.” — Joe Namath.
Strength, commitment, community … one goal — Help us keep football in Houlton!
Deana Bailey
Houlton
