Time ticks away for everyone, but that doesn’t mean you have to go down without a fight…
Some start playing football at an early age; while others sometime wait a little while longer. No matter when you pick up the game, the hard work you put into it, the friendships you make and the life lessons that you learn along the way are priceless and timeless.
I started playing football when I was seven or eight years old and had average skills at best. By the time I reached high school, I stood 5’7 and weighed 130 pounds on a good day. I quickly realized that my football playing days were likely behind me.
My brother Jim, however was a very talented football player, and I attended every one of his games…that’s where I truly fell in love with the game.
Many years later, I was afforded the opportunity to broadcast Navarre Raider football for Panhandle Sports Broadcasting in 2009. I learned the ins and outs of a profession that I had only dreamed of being a part of. I later developed those skills with Robert Williamson and JockJive.com, before launching IrishBillSports.com in 2019.
As a young broadcaster, then-Navarre Head Coach Chad Lashley, gave me the opportunity to broaden my horizons. I will forever be grateful to him for that chance. I didn’t realize it at the time, but that is when I truly became a part of Raider Nation.
Since opening its doors in 1996 and playing its first varsity season in 1998, Navarre football has been blessed with countless talented athletes. I’m not going to mention any names because I don’t want to leave anyone out, but I can tell you the list would be a long one.
You see, time slips away differently for everyone. But every year when I begin my countdown to kickoff for Navarre Raider football, it brings out that little kid in me once again. It reminds me how blessed I am do what I love and to be a part of a community I’ve called home since 1991.
Never forget the journey that you took and the challenges you endured to become the person you are today.
And always remember…
It’s Greater To Be A Raider.