Something positive

Sports can sometimes bring out the best and the worst in people. We have all witnessed the ugly side of life in sports. Out of control parents and fans from pee-wee right up to our pro teams exhibiting behavior that is sickening. Sometimes you just shake your head. But Saturday night at the College of Wooster you might have cried and smiled. Kent State University took on the College of Wooster in a Men's basketball exhibition game. The outcome was expected, Kent State winning 76-59. The reason for the game was more poignant. Kent State Coach Geno Ford wanted to help. He, like all of us, was deeply saddened by the tragic accident the claimed the life of 3-year old Corey John Cline earlier this year. Corey was the son of Scots Assistant Coach Doug Cline. Coach Ford said he wanted to do something, but like everybody didn't know what to do to show support. His idea: bring his team to the College of Wooster for an exhibition game to raise money. It is almost unheard of for a Division One team to play at a Division 3 opponnet. As a matter of fact, Kent had to get a waiver from the NCAA just to make the trip. The result: over $5,000 was raised for the Corey John Cline Fund. The money will go to less fortunate children in Wayne County. The game officials, Chuck Bullock, Scott Gooden and Ricky Smith donated $1,000 to the cause. Tears were shed at first, then basketball was played. Kent State won the game but we all were winners. Scots basketball fans should remember to cheer for at least one other college team this year. Sometimes people can be pretty good, especially under the most trying times. A prime example was Saturday night.