Our Soccer Sons

When I coach a team the players and their families become extended family. We refer to the players as our soccer sons. We break bread with them, celebrate birthdays, graduations and weddings with them. And we comfort them when a loved one dies.

This week a former Grand Lake United and current Shawnee high school player took his own life. Jonathon Andrews was a wonderful young man. Raised to be a gentleman by loving parents. A good student, a great athlete and an even better person. He was a loving individual and greatly loved.

It is a tragedy that Jonathon fell victim to suicide.

I am a better man for having known Jonathon. The days the Lord provided to share with Jonathon were a blessing whose proportions are only now becoming fully understood. What a joy to have known this young man,

The loss of this young man weighs heavily on me. I waited in line with members of both our Grand Lake United and Lima Senior high school teams for well over an hour to make our way to Jonathon's parents, Scot and Julie.  Scot and I cried as we hugged one another. We spoke of simpler times and fond memories. Much like Jonathon's life this time together ended much too soon.

I will miss the funeral tomorrow morning as our Lima Senior team will be playing crosstown rival Elida. The Bulldog's were also at the viewing this afternoon. We stood together to offer our sympathy to Jonathon's family this afternoon. We will stand together on the pitch as friendly rivals tomorrow as Jonathon is being laid to rest,  I think Jonathon would understand.

Rest in Peace Jonathon Andrews

November 4, 1997 - September 20, 2015