More fans, more wins, Clark spirit

On this great and glorious morning, I just want to wish a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to each one of you.  I don’t often editorialize here but it’s a privilege I’m taking today.

It’s already been a great year with more to come.  As we head into 2010 and since it is the holiday season, here’s a list of things I wish for in 2010:

More fans in the stands – If you haven’t been to a game this year, make plans to attend one soon.  Whether you’re a parent, a student, or an alum, if you haven’t seen what Clark is putting on the field, court, course, track or in the pool, you’re missing a good thing.  It’s easy to attend your own kids’ games or enjoy the sport you like but go see what their friends are doing.  You’ll be glad you did and impressed with the hard work and effort each of these athletes give.

More support for the booster club – I’ll be blunt here: your money is needed to make Clark athletics a better experience for each athlete and dancer/cheerleader.  Yes, the booster club supports every athlete and gives a sizable chunk to the Cougarettes.  As a matter of fact, take a look at their budget.  Where does most of the money go?  It’s not football.  The booster club, by UIL rules, can only hand over dollars to the athletic director.  That money is split a zillion little ways and there’s never enough for all the sports that need new jerseys, banquets, bags, balls, weights, entry fees, etc.  If you can’t give a buck or two, please get involved.  It makes Clark a better place for all students.

A man as honorable as Coach Alexander – Talk all you want about wins, losses, styles, play-calling, etc.  As long as we replace this great example and teacher for all our athletes with a man as good as he is, Clark will be just fine.  He’s put together a staff full of the same, which leads me to…

A true appreciation for the coaches and staff – Yeah, it’s their job but do you know anybody else who puts as much time and effort into the success of these 15-18 year olds than these folks?  (Sometimes even more than the parents…)  From fall to spring, each of them dedicates and sacrifices more than we know, sometimes while they’re criticized for not doing enough.  Remarkable.  Thanks, coaches.

And finally, success for Clark teams – Whether that’s measured in wins, better records than the last or simply new milestones for teams or individuals, here’s wishing all the best for each athlete and coach who give us fans so much pleasure.  We’re rooting for you!

Add your own wishes in the comments section, if you’d like.  Until the next game…

GO COUGARS!