This Friday, the Cooper Cougars will head west on I-20 to play Midland Lee in their 1st district game of the season. The Coogs and the Rebs, both 5-0 in preseason play, will battle it out in Grande Stadium, at 7:30 pm.
The 2010 Coogs, talented and healthy, are ready to play! After scoring 141 points in the first half of the last 3 games, they are looking forward to the challenge ahead. Midland Lee will be the first big opponent the Cougars have faced since they overcame state ranked Austin Westlake, in a 24 -21 victory.
There is something special about this year's team. It's obvious to even me, who knows very little about this game and yet knows! Excitement is in the air in Abilene Texas! More specifically at Cooper High School. Since 2005, every player that has believed, every coach that has inspired, every parent that has helped and every fan that has hoped, can sense it! Resuscitating the Cooper Football program did not happen overnight. Its been 5 1/2 years since Mike Spradlin, left Art Briles and friends at U of H, to bring his brand of ball to Abilene Cooper. With unwavering dedication, discipline and determination he and a staff of coaching warriors, have rebuilt the walls that had all but crumbled. As many know, this has been no small feat but it has been worthwhile. For a long the way, many broken lives have been restored, as well.
What a privilege I consider it to be married to a coach. These men who have the smarts and the work ethic to succeed anywhere, amaze me! Over the years, it has become increasingly obvious to me that God has 'wired' them for such a purpose. Created them to serve others. They are not alone; those serving in the U. S. military, law enforcement, firefighters, ministries etc. It's the only thing that makes sense! Why else would they day in and day out, give so much and expect so little in return.
I am humbled by their selflessness and honored, and inspired to better play my own role. I am many things to many people but foremost, I am Coach's helper. So, in the weeks to come I will provide encouragement and a listening ear, nourishment and clean laundry. On Sunday afternoons, I will deliver fresh baked goods, keep the candy bowls full and this blog updated. Most importantly, I will respect my coach at all times. Honoring him with my words and deeds. I will attend all games, cheer less and watch more. :) Last but not least, I will pray. Pray without ceasing... 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Speaking of prayer, there is something I must confess. During coaching school last summer, while visiting with Carolyn Allen (wife to Coach Randy Allen) and she referenced a particular state championship season as ' the season daughter Ashley prayed they would be undefeated'. Though she had mentioned it before, this time the idea stuck and I decided this fall I would do the same. In season's past, I have 'made my request known' while at the same time asking, that God's will be done but this year I will be specific. On August 14Th, at our annual Girls Night Out, I announced to the Cooper coaches wives that this year I would be praying for an undefeated season. I have gone before the throne of God and made known the 'desire of my heart'. I know it is a bold request but prayer is powerful and God is able. Deep down I know He doesn't mind me asking Him for this and I know He doesn't mind me believing and trusting Him to preform it. You see, I've trusted Him for many things along life's way. He is more than worthy of my trust. So I will step out here and share my request.
My heart is confident in you God; no wonder I can sing your praises!
Wake up, my soul! Wake up, O harp and lyre! I will waken the dawn with my song.
I will thank you Lord, in front of all the people. I will sing your praises among all the nations.
For your unfailing love is higher than the heavens. Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds.
Be exalted, O God, above the highest heavens.
May your glory shine over all the earth. Psalm 108
Please join me. There is strength in numbers.
Trusting Him, in all things.
I wish ya'll all the best! My son played football from 4th grade through senior year, and is now playing in Jr. College. He says this is it, and it makes this momma so sad. But, during his 10th through 12th grades, his team gave us the ride of our lives!! We went to State twice, came up short both times, but it was worth the ride! His junior year, we went to the 2nd round of the play-offs! It was great, too. During his sophomore year, we were the little known team that came out of nowhere, not expected to even get to the first play-off round! I never expected us to lose, never! It was just a feeling, like you have, a feeling that's so hard to explain but if you love the game and your children have leaders that instill winning, then you know what i'm talking about! We, also had a fantastic coaching staff, a good Christian coaching staff! They believed in the boys and the boys performed! It was awesome! Memories that cannot, and will not, ever be erased! Good luck!! I will be looking for updates! Wish I could be right in the middle of all the excitement that you're experiencing!! :)
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