[pjdoug]

T’was the night before finals, when all through the town not a player was stirring, they dreamt of touchdowns.  The helmets were hung by their lockers with care, In hopes that a championship trophy soon would be there.

The players were nestled all snug in their bed while visions of victory danced in their heads. And the coach with his playbook sat in his lap, had just settled his brain and hoped for a nap.  When out in the internet there arose such a clatter, old men in the forums spoke like their opinions do matter.  

On the way to Kroger the bus drove with much care, for the driver knew he must make sure the team safely gets there.  Before bed the head coach, so lively and quick, was so nervous that night he got a little sick.

As the announcer prepared for the game he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: Now! Panther, now! Ram, now! Cardinal, and Tiger, On! Centurion, on! Tiger, on! Red Hound and Rebel, Now! Bronco, now! Purple, now! Bulldog, and Charger. 

At the top of the press box to sat on the wall a giant camera ready to film all.  In that room were giant trophies ready to be claimed.  For this weekend the champions will be named.

And then after the battles the season will come to an end and the players will laugh and cry with a friend.  For the seniors, the journey comes to a close , but their futures are bright as everyone knows. When they leave field one last time and hold their parents real tight, win or lose they know that they fought the good fight.  As the players sleep in bed after being tucked, I say , Happy Finals to all, and to all best of luck!

Beautifully written, Mr. Blaze.