Letter to the Editor: Congratulations to Aliceville High School’s Football Players

Dear Editor:

Congratulations to Aliceville High School head football coach Melvin Pete, football players, and coaching staff for advancing to the Class 2A state semifinal football game.  Aliceville has established itself as a “storied” and “powerhouse” football program throughout the state of Alabama.  The Yellow Jackets are the topic of discussion during my visits to the barber shop in Selma, Alabama.   The tailgating experience during the school’s homecoming game in October 2018 was “absolutely awesome.”  The citizens of the town and former residents of Aliceville support the school’s athletics.

Athletics and school activities play a big part in the community.  Students who participate in high school sports learn the benefits and honor to represent the Aliceville community on the football field and basketball court.  High school sports have some other benefits, also.  Research showed people who played high school sports tend to get better jobs, with better pay, and that those benefits last a lifetime.

According to a report from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), student athletes are less likely to participate in unhealthy or risky behavior when they are playing sports in high school. Students who are involved in high school sports tend not to use illegal drugs and are less likely to become teen parents.

Although, I graduated from R. J. Kirksey High School (class of 1970) in Aliceville, my loyalty and support extend to the Yellow Jackets.  We anticipate a state “football championship” in 2019. “GO YELLOW JACKETS”      

Gerald Shirley
(An Aliceville Native)

Retired School
Administrator

Selma, Alabama