You men, yes men, men who know the sweet smell of victory and the bitter taste of defeat; you are men of honor in every sense of the word.

You have played a season filled with class and integrity in the face of odds that would make lesser men crumble under the pressure. You have played with bravery and compassion and more heart than most of us will ever witness again, and should you feel half the pride your community feels for you in this moment with that silver ball hoisted high above your heads, you would know more pride than other teams will ever know.

While it has been many years since an Ada football team has brought home a gold ball, it has also been many years since a team has brought home a silver ball. You have just accomplished something only few teams in the state have this year.

My wish for you is that you continue to hoist that precious silver ball high in your hearts for as long as your days allow. I can guarantee few within this community will ever forget the way you amazed us this season with your grit and pure determination.

I, for one, could not be more proud than I am in this moment, regardless of the color of that ball. I am proud to have known you, have taught you, and have witnessed your greatness. Thank you for this season of magic that I will carry in my heart always.