Simple acts of kindness
The ‘French’ Connection
Local sports rivalries can oftentimes prioritize the need to show sportsmanship to those we oppose.
The contrary happened this past weekend.
At the 3A/4A state basketball tournament in Casper, the pep band from Cody High School attended every Lovell boys game and performed as if they were supporting their own team.
Not only did they play upbeat tunes during timeouts, they cheered along to encourage defensive stands and offensive charges.
Many were shocked to hear the familiar tune and words, “Hurrah for our ol’ Lovell High...” and stood to sing and clap along to the school song being played by our longtime competition.
The Cody band director, Wade French, is married to Carisa French, who is the choir director at the middle school and high school in Lovell, and that is where the connection lies.
The Lovell boys basketball team lost a heartbreaker in the opening round but bounced back to earn the consolation championship.
Even though there is no way to determine if the band’s presence affected the outcome of the score, they most certainly affected the atmosphere in the arenas and created a truly electric spirit.
Perhaps the Bronc Band was more willing to participate in this act of kindness because they currently reside in the 4A division.
Next year, on the other hand, I’m sure the two teams will reignite the rivalry as Cody High School will be coming back down to the 3A realm.
But for now, they take home the unofficial Sportsmanship Award for their support and were truly an example of “joining the ride.”
Lovell fans chanted, “Thank you, Cody,” as the band packed away their instruments at the conclusion of the final match and the basketball season came to an end.
It was a great reminder that we should always want to see others succeed ... as long as it’s not against us.
— Stormy Jameson
Submit your Simple Act of Kindness idea to Lovelleditor@gmail.com