By Bill Nestor
Broadcasting high school football games is a blessing that I do not take for granted. Every game brings something new to look forward to, but there are some venues that are just special. One of these special stops for me is Lincoln for multiple reasons. I was fortunate to coach track thee 30 years ago, meeting several exceptional people at that time, some of whom I am fortunate to maintain friendships with to this day.
There are several coaches and game day staff that I’ve been friends with for decades, some even range back to the 80s and those of you that are usually good at math realize that is a very long time.
Adding to the excitement surrounding this lock-up is that both Robert C. Byrd and the Cougars were fighting for a postseason bid. The Flying Eagles were looking to get back into the playoffs after taking some time away while Lincoln was trying to extend its school record for consecutive playoff appearances.
Shortly after arriving at Stydahar Field, everything changed as a conversation with Cougar athletic director Holly Hawkins confirmed a tragedy had taken place. Earlier in the day, a student’s death had sent the Shinnston community into shock. The press box went silent and my focus went from the impending game to what really matters the most. As an adult, it took a long time for me to compose myself and prepare to go to work.
Just before going on the air, I thought about the Lincoln players and the coaches. How would they be able to play after what they had just gone through?
Many schools would have postponed the game and, if they would have, no one would have blamed them. On the gridiron, a see-saw affair took place. The home team scored first, but Robert C. Byrd would counter with a pair of touchdowns. The Cougars answered with a touchdown and a score for the Flying Eagles left the visitors on top 21 to 12 at the halftime break. This would be the perfect time to pack it in for Lincoln, and if they did, not a single person would blame them.
But anybody that would expect that to happen does not know Cougar Head Coach Rob Hawkins.
Hawkins rallied his squad during intermission and they came out playing inspired football in the third period.
Lincoln held RCB scoreless in the third quarter and collected a pair of touchdowns to go with two – two point conversions to grab a 28 to 21 fourth quarter lead. A late Flying Eagle touchdown forced overtime where RCB would score and claim a 35 to 28 win. The Cougars proved so much to every spectator in attendance. They showed the heart of a champion and the will to compete for each other, which means more than any win could ever provide. These players learned a life lesson that will stay with them and band them together long after their playing days are over.
When a community bands together, the strength provided helps to carry those that need ot the most. The entire Lincoln bleacher area was jam packed with people that wanted to be there to lend support and it was felt all night long.
My thoughts and prayers go out to each and every person in the Shinnston community.
May God Bless you in your time of need.