To the editor:

Nov. 16 was a tough night for the people of Scott City, especially for the large crowd who traveled to St. Louis to watch the high school football team plan in the state quarterfinals. Although the Rams jumped to an early lead, the team from Lutheran North ultimately prevailed with a one-touchdown victory in an exciting, hard-fought game that was not decided until the final moments. While the loss was particularly heartbreaking because many had expected Scott City to win and advance to the semifinals, no one should have been disappointed with the Rams' effort that night. Yes, Lutheran North may have played well enough to win, but they did not play any harder than the Scott City players, who held nothing back. There is no doubt in my mind that they gave everything they had.

I had the good fortune to serve as assistant to my brother when we coached the Ram seniors during their freshman season. It was evident then that they had a combination of talent and enthusiasm that could produce a very good football team. Since then, it has been a pleasure to watch them mature into an excellent football team and an outstanding group of young men as well. No, they certainly haven't been perfect, but anyone who knows them very well will agree that their contributions to the community will continue long after they leave Scott City High School.

I've seen many fine Scott City football teams over the years, and the 1998 Rams earned a place among the best ever. As a proud fan, I want to say thanks to the Ram coaches and players for a wonderful season.

RICK BOHN

Scott City