A 5-5 at-large bid, No. 10 seed for the NCHSAA football playoff — with all games being played on their opponent’s field — who will be playing on Saturday at Duke University for the state 4A championship would be unbelievable, right?
Believe it, Scotland Nation, because it’s true.
This in spite of graduating 32 seniors from last year’s team and probably one of the better senior classes to ever grace the gridiron at Scotland High. This in spite of entering a rebuilding year and the loss of key skill players prior to the season, early in the season and mid-way into the season; plus being a young team and having no experience at this level.
Through all of the adversity, these young men grew up right before our eyes every Friday night. The most important thing they had was the fan support. Though it wasn’t there early in the season, these young men persevered and stood tall when most of Scotland Nation was down — including myself.
This team set out to prove the doubters wrong, and boy did they.
These guys, with God in their hearts, became one team and one heartbeat. They began playing not for themselves, bit for one another — the very definition of “team.” This team has set the bar high, not just for future teams but for the community of Scotland itself. This group of athletes has showed us all that “teamwork makes the dream work.”
To the coaches and players: No matter the outcome of Saturday’s game, to the Scotland Nation all of you are already winners. I know you guys will look up into the stands on Saturday and see the Scotland faithful cheering. Thank you for another unforgettable season and great Friday nights.
Now go and get your 4A state championship. Go Scots!
Frederick B. Hubbard
Laurinburg