Here are arguably the top 10 reasons for some of the local graduating seniors passing on the 19th annual Battle Against Cystic Fibrosis Football Classic at Don Drumm Stadium Friday night:
10. "My girlfriend doesn't want me to play."
9. "There's a TV show or movie on that night I need to watch."
8. "I don't like the coach."
7. "I'm out of shape."
6. "Hey, I need a bigger stage. Don Drumm Stadium's not exactly the Ohio State Horseshoe in Columbus, y'know.
5. "I've got to work and deliver pizzas that night. Sorry."
4. "I'm playing in another football all-star game later this month."
3. "I'd like to play but I'm injured."
2. "Are you kidding me, I might get hurt. Football is a rough, tough sport, man."
...and finally, probably the top reason why some of them sit it out....
1. Myrtle Beach, or some other family vacation destination.
Excuses, excuses, excuses....take 'em all and your Manny bumperstickers to Myrtle Beach or elsewhere with you.
Well, let's flip to the other side, and here might be the top 10 reasons why a healthy, graduating senior should consider playing in Friday night's contest:
10. For the love of the game of football. This might be the last time that many of the players put on the helmets and pads.
9. The cameraderie and fellowship. 'Nuff said.
8. It's for a good cause.
7. The honor of being selected to play in an all-star game cannot be taken for granted.
6. The competition and being pitted against a worthy opponent.
5. The adrenaline rush.
4. The challenge.
3. The contact. You can actually hit someone legally (on the gridiron) and not be arrested.
2. Play in front of a crowd again.
....and finally, the main reason...
1. Did I happen to mention that it's for a good cause?
Cystic fibrosis can be such a debilitating disorder, and the BACF football all-stars and the fans who attend Friday's game have an opportunity to help someone in real need.
That's what it's all about.
That's what it's always been all about - people helping other people less fortunate health-wise.
Ron Johnston is the Marietta Times sports editor and can be reached at 376-5441, or at rjohnston@mariettatimes.com
