About the 5-AA title game

[TankTalk]

I want to congratulate a very classy Walker Valley softball program on a well-deserved 5-AA tournament championship. They defeated Sweetwater 3-1 tonight.

 

But what happened after the game tugged at my heart like no sporting event ever has. Head coach Eric Weaver and assistant coach John Ridgell will be leaving in early June for around 18 months to fight for our country. He spoke to the crowd and the two teams after the game and there wasn't a dry eye in the house. This man is tough...for you that know him. He is an old-school coach that displays a rough exterior and takes no guff from parents, fans or his players. But his players cried like I have never seen athletes cry in my life.

 

It wasn't the loss, although them wanting to win this game for him had to add to it. It was the realization that they are losing him and the respect and love they have is overwhelming. The Walker Valley coach spoke and his words brought more tears. I have been covering sporting events for 16 years and watching them for around 30, but I have never been witness to such an emotional display.

 

It puts the "game" in perspective. God Bless coach Weaver and Ridgell, as well as all the young men and women who are laying their lives on the line for this war.

[ERA]

What a story Tank. That's reality slapping all of us in the face. God bless him and be with his team in their time of worry.

[Swildcat1967]

How true Tank, it really was an unbelievable moment! I'm not afraid to say that it was a special moment and even got to this 36 year old. Never have I felt such love and respect from 2 teams that have such an unbelieveable rivalry! Kind of makes you want to see them play again! I respect Coach Weaver and Coach Ridgell very much, and am very proud to say these two come from my community.

I also respect Walker Valleys Coach very much to for what he said! It was a small moment in the scheme of life that I will never forget. No matter what you think about the war, these two men, and all that serve our Country should be in everyone's prayers, they are true hero's and the reason why we live in the greatest Country in the World! You will be in our prayers everyday, and I look forward to seeing both of you on that Softball field again!

[wildukcats]

It has truly been an honor for me to coach against and become friends with Coach Weaver and Coach Ridgell from Sweetwater. As a young coach three years ago, they both welcomed me into the district and have been a fine example of class and integrity. Last night was about a lot more than a softball game. The young ladies from both teams witnessed a life lesson that will last a lifetime. They learned that when it is all said and done on the field, the only things that really matter are the relationships that are made. Coach Weaver and Ridgell, are prayers are with you, your families, and your team as you leave for Iraq. I am proud to have men like you fighting for our freedom so that we can play this silly little game of softball back here in the states. We at Walker Valley are already anxious for your return and look forward to many more memories on the diamond and in life. Read 2nd Corinthians 4:16-18 when you get a chance!

 

Your Brother, Coach Doan

[Runner15]

Coach Weaver,

 

You and your Sweetwater girls are awesome...I hope that you come back and put a spankin' on the next team you play because you all deserve to go on....you are a great team with a lot of class. I am glad that I could play on a team with such a good rivalry with a classy team like yours. You have forever changed my high school, school ball career/memories... My thought and prayers are with you always....

[tophat]

Coach Weaver and Ridgell thank you, From a DAD. God Bless.

[DelTavian]

I think most here know I served in the gulf the last time around and know that I send care packages to troops there now.

 

When these two men get on their way would someone please get me their APO mailing addresses so I can send them some boxes of goodies from an old Desert Storm troop.

 

Del.

[TankTalk]

I think they will be doing a little training in Mississippi and another place before actually heading over. Of course, once I find the info when they get there, I will pass it along.

[Cats on da Prowl]

I go to sweetwater and play baseball there! At school you can see the love each and everyone of these girls have for Coach Weaver and Coach Ridgell. They are worried to death about them and desperatly what to do extrmely good for coach Ridgell and Coach Weaver. These men amoung others have enspired me amoung others to fight for my country. I leave for BCT 6 days before these guys leave to fight the greatest battle of there lives. Coach Weaver and Coach Ridgell you will be in my prayers at BCT. Girls go out and beat East Ridge for Coach Weaver and Coach Ridgell

 

 

GO LADY CATS!!!!!!