I was wondering if you might be interested in running a little story _ possibly one explaining how and why the Unatego football team didn’t make the playoffs.

Please explain this to us normal people. I guess we just can’t understand the people in charge of these decisions. How can a team that is tied for the division not at the least have a playoff? I mean, come on.

Yes, the Spartans have two losses _ one to Greene and one to Oneonta, the latter a Class B school. But shouldn’t someone consider that they beat Sidney _ the top-ranked Class C team in the state? Sidney’s the defending Class C state champion, too.

Instead of a points system to break ties and determine playoff berths, Section Four should use the K.I.S.S. (Keep It Simple, Stupid) method. Rematch: Unatego vs. Greene.

_ Chad Baumes, Unadilla

Sidney varsity football players have earned praise

Not enough credit is given to the young adults in our communities.

I would like to express my admiration for the players on the Sidney football team. They are true role models for all teams to follow. Their "pride in the tribe" runs deeper than people know.

Their sensitivity and encouragement have been the stepping stone in welcoming the junior varsity players who moved up to varsity this year. My son was one of those JV players who had a lot to live up to after Sidney won the Class C state championship last season. But after the first varsity practice this season, he seemed more at ease.[an error occurred while processing this directive]

Throughout the season, the older players continued to make the newcomers feel like they had always been a part of the team. Instead of being arrogant, they encouraged them to believe in themselves and in each other.

Few people this age can say they’ve touched lives the same way Sidney’s veterans have. They’ve built confidence in the younger players, embraced team unity and created a team with heart and soul, win or lose.

If they’re this good in high school, imagine what the future holds.

_ Cheryl Babcock, Sidney