Nothing has brought a smile to my husband Ted's face this past year like lacrosse has. His greatest joy has been watching his daughter play on a championship lacrosse team in college and watching his son and "his boys" have a such successful HS lacrosse season. Tonight the South Portland Red Riots boys lacrosse team lost their semi final game. To say it was a heartbreaking loss would be an understatement. These boys PLAYED lacrosse today, just like they have played all season long, with passion, love of the game and for the love of Ted. I hope they realize how proud of them we all are, parents, sisters, brothers, coaches, friends, neighbors & teachers. They have taught us all what playing as a team really means, with grace, kindness and tender hearts. As I watched these young men exit the field, supporting each other, my heart swelled. All year these boys have showed us what it is a team does for each other. They lift each other up. They have shown us time and time again in their actions after each game, filing past coach Ted letting him know that he is part of the heart and soul of the team. Some of the boys said to Ted today "I'm sorry we let you down" That could not be further from the truth, it is just not possible. Ted could not have more love, respect and admiration in his heart for this team, and they could never, ever let him down.
So although I am crushed that they did not win, because these boys worked hard all season for it, and they wanted to win it all for Ted, I hope they get the really big message here. The Gift is not in the win but in the way this team has played together as a band of brothers.
A lot has been written about this team, and I hope all other teams (and some parents) take note and learn from the Young Red Riots what it is like to be talented, hungry, focused, underestimated, hardworking, kindhearted, fierce, loyal, respectful, thoughtful, selfless and compassionate young men. You have made us all proud.
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