Booster Club Boost

I’ve often written about the matriarchs and patriarchs of Neosho. Individuals who leave such big shoes to fill, climbing into them seems insurmountable.

Who would dare to think they could be the next Hale McGinty or Ruth Bushmeyer. Who would think they’ve got anything on Ann Cope, Fred Clark, Peggy Payne or Robert Allen. Although these individuals probably never viewed themselves as role models, I’m confident at one time or another they’ve contemplated the servant leader concept of performing self-less acts for a greater good.

The problem with such steadfast role models is that often it appears overly intimidating to get in line and start shouldering part of the burden. Frankly, that’s my own weak-kneed excuse for not doing more.

It occurred to me at last Thursdays’ final football game that fortunately we are quietly surrounded by selfless individuals who have taken on community leadership roles simply because they felt it was the right thing to do. They recognized that someone needed to take charge, and they accepted the challenge; not because they had a vested interest or anything personal to gain, but simply because the opportunity to serve was there.

Each week Clark and Chyna Rhoades, Brett Day, Susan Elledge, Val Stauffer, Sandra Crane and Leslie Merrick put in time organizing and supporting the efforts of the Neosho booster club. Throw in a home football game and each of these individuals adds another six to seven hours of on-site volunteer work to their day.

I recognize that we’re not all sports fans and I’m confident that there are volunteers providing an equally impressive amount of time to the efforts of the agricultural students, band, speech and debate squads. Being confident that the Booster club model is not unique solely to the sports department makes me confident that we have the ability and the wherewithal to support Neosho and invest in its future pride and spirit.

Most of the individuals leading the Booster Club have children who are either too young or too old to participate in high school athletics. They’re in there for the students and never to promote themselves or their business.  I know I’ve never said thank you. I’ve thought, “Wow (he/she) is always here working. I should rally myself and volunteer to help.” When you think about it, wouldn’t that be the best complement we could offer; to say “You’re doing a great job. How can I help?

In the interim, if you see Clark or Chyna, Brett or Susan, Val, Sandra or Leslie, stop and tell them thanks for their service to our schools and the leadership roles they’ve claimed.