Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease, is a condition that attacks an individual’s motor neurons, or nerves, which control all the muscle movements in the body while the mind remains completely intact. It is a cruel affliction. Every 90 minutes, someone is diagnosed with ALS and there are currently over 30,000 people in the United States who suffer from the thus far incurable, deadly disease. One of those people is our own, Coach Rob.

In October, just before the start of the season, Coach Rob received the horrifying news. In typical Coach Rob fashion, upon getting the diagnosis he told us, “It doesn’t change a thing about my commitment to these boys.” Rob fought. As he many times implored his teams he faced his battle with passion, optimism, and determination. He never missed a game, he never missed a practice. So many times in sports we coaches talk about “going to war” or “winning the battle” and “fighting for everything”, but those are merely metaphors. What Coach Rob taught these boys…and all of us…this season was in the grand scheme of life nothing is more insignificant than the final score of a game as day after day Coach Rob faced his battle with an unparralled pride and dignity. May we all face our greatest battles in life with such honor.

But as Rob faces the most defining years of his life, it is now time that we, his players, his fellow community members, and above all, his family and friends, remind him that he does not face this fight alone. And for all he has done for us, it is now time to give back to Coach Rob.

There is no greater support than that of the Red Land Community. What makes us different, what makes us so special, what separates us from others is that when the right thing needs to be done, Red Land does the right thing. Our community never disappoints. We come together unlike any other, and we’ve proven that once again tonight. What brought us here tonight is bigger than the game, or a team—it is a MOMENT. A moment that will help define the care and support that defines this community. We are here for one of our own. We are here for Coach Rob. Because he has always been there for us. Because he is one of us.

Red Land is a special place because special people live here. There is no one more special than Coach Rob. So as we celebrate and thank you for the impact that you have on this community, on our children, we want you to know that we unconditionally support you, believe in you, and love you.

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