Herman Boone, born October 28,, 1935, was made famous from the movie "Remember the Titans" (one of my all-time favorites). He is T.C. William's High School's most famous coach. Most people have seen the movie and know what extreme situations he had to face and conquer in order to reach his goals. Let's look at some obstacles he faced even before he got to T.C. Williams.
At E.J.Hayes High School in Williamston, North Carolina he amassed a record of 99 wins and only 8 losses in a 9-year period. They were recognized by the Scholastic Coaches Magazine as the number 1 high school football team in America. However, in 1969 Boone was fired from his position because the Williamston School District said they weren't ready for a black head coach yet.
In 1971 we moved to Alexandria, Virginia where he became the head coach of the newly racial integrated school of T.C. Williams. Prejudice was so strong and hatred among races was so prevalent. Even though they were integrating externally, internally they were still segregated. It also didn't help that he was placed over Coach Yoast who was widely accepted and liked by the city of Alexandria.
Coach Boone faced prejudice, hatred, deception, gossip, slander, verbal abuse, and attacks. He sacrificed security, safety and placed himself in the middle of opposition and turmoil everyday. Why? The entire reason he got into teaching and coaching was to mentor and motivate other youngsters. That was his life mission and he was willing to sacrifice for it.
Well, of course we know the outcome. They won the state championship that year and were ranked 2nd in national polls. Richard Nixon was quoted saying after they won the state championship that "The Titan's saved Alexandria." The team was not only used to bring the players together in unity but the city also came together and saw unprecedented unity among races. Because Coach Boone was willing to sacrifice, he motivated and mentored youngsters but also changed a city and a nation. You and I are even inspired by him today.
When we sacrifice and are willing to go through challenges and pain for the greater cause, we are not only changed but we change the world around us.
As we plant this church in Wyandotte, there will be children 20 years from now that will be thankful for the sacrifices made by those who helped start this church. There will be families that attend that read about those who sacrificed their time, money & talents to serve and reach downriver. We keep our eyes on the goal! It's going to be worth it!
No comments:
Post a Comment