Dear Editor,

I would like to take this opportunity to send out a very sincere thank you to the Effingham County High School football team’s chaplain, Rev. Chip Strickland.

During our Aug. 28 game against the Rebels, one of our young men suffered a scary injury to his neck. He had to be taken to the local hospital for evaluations because he felt numbness on one side of his body. As you can imagine it was a very stressful few moments. The entire time the EMS technicians were working on him, Mr. Strickland offered his assistance by helping to stabilize him, move him onto the board. He also gave our coaches, administration and family directions to the hospital.

Once we arrived at the hospital, Mr. Strickland evidently wrapped up his obligations to the ECHS football program and came directly to the hospital to check on us. He did not leave until the young man had regained full strength and feeling. He suffered a sprained neck and is now back full time. It was clear from his conversation and comments, that he thinks a lot of the Effingham community, coaches and kids.

As a head high school football coach, I know first hand that it is sometimes easy to get our priorities mixed up. We spend quite a bit of time promoting competition and toughness. It’s people like Mr. Strickland that often remind us all through their good deeds that character and sportsmanship are just as important.

I hope the fans and supporters of ECHS realize how blessed they are to have a man like Mr. Strickland involved in the lives of their young men.

Eric Parker
Head Football Coach
Burke County High School