“I couldn’t be prouder of my boys.”

That’s what Brookhaven Academy soccer coach Alex Brown said on Thursday, just moments after the team lost the title game in the MAIS Division II Boys Soccer Championship.

The 2-0 loss to Pillow Academy was only the second loss of the season for the Cougars, whose outstanding play on the pitch has garnered the support of friends, family and fans throughout the community.

Throughout the season, this talented team of student athletes has stepped up to challenges and responded to opportunities like the champions they are. And that is a testament to the boys’ characters, their commitment and their love the game.

Coach Brown was talking about those traits when he called the opportunity to coach this team “a blessing.”

“It’s such a blessing to be able to coach kids that love each other as much as this group and that love football the way that they do.”

Participating in sports teachers players invaluable skills – from teamwork to hard work, from overcoming challenges to handling disappointments. And when those lessons are learned and taught from a basis of faith, love and respect, they will resonate for life.

Coach Brown understands that, which is why he said that despite the loss, “I know my boys will be better young men because of tonight.”

Well said, coach. And well done on helping lead this team.

We couldn’t be prouder of all of you.