A PREDICTION:

It’s very unusual to have a high school sports team unite a community as has the Clare Pioneers football team. The 13-0 Pioneers, who are headed to the state finals for the first time ever, have brought joy, excitement, and anticipation to almost every resident in Clare. They have done it by emphasizing the “team concept” which is largely responsible for many of their wins. That concept has found its way into the community, where now all of us feel a part of that football team.

I wouldn’t call it a miracle, but close. In each of the last three playoff games, Clare entered as the underdog. Each time they came away with the win and advanced on. Now they face their stiffest test in the finals. Jackson Lumen Christi, the opponent, is well-known as a football powerhouse, and again is expected to defeat The Pioneers.

I wouldn’t bet against Clare, however. What they might lack in size and ability, is more than made up in heart and desire. Toss in “the team spirit and togetherness, and I truly believe you have an unbeatable combination.

Here’s a sampling of what some of the parents of players have to say:

“It’s a common thing to see players with stickers on their helmets showing their individual accomplishments. Not this team. This team is united and it’s a joint accomplishment. They stand together united as they leave the locker room with interlocked hands.”

                                                                                                 Ken Randall

“I have never seen a team as connected as they have been all year. They never once singled out a person. They made sure everyone was an equal part.”

                                                                                                 Margo Smith

“I am totally amazed how well they work as a team and as one.”

                                                                                                 Margaret Siegert

Get the picture? We all can take a lesson from this undefeated team. The Pittsburgh Steelers use to have a theme song, “We Are Family,” an old Sister Sledge tune, when they were winning Super Bowls several years ago. The tune, and thusly the Steelers, stressed family and teamwork, on their way to several Super Bowl victories.

Our Pioneers are far too young to remember that song, or those Steeler Super Bowl teams, but they’ve got the message down pat. Family and teamwork are more important in crowning champions than size and ability.

Mark my words- Clare will return Saturday night with a victory. Lumen Christi is no match for our team’s heart and spirit.