This letter is in response to Jack Papa's recent letter regarding Johnstown football. I agree with him completely and feel that it is time for a renewal, a return to tradition. I remember the excitement in the air on Friday nights when I was growing up. The stands used to be filled and the hill was lined with people. Now, it is not hard to find a place to sit.

It is time for a change - in attitude. We need that Johnstown pride back. Parents need to sit back and be fans and supporters, enjoy the games and let coaches do their job (in every sport). Coaches need to instill discipline, hard work, tradition, teamwork and pride in the kids. The Board of Education and Athletic Department need to protect their coaches so they may do their jobs correctly and to the best of their ability.

I have coached for several years and know the difficulties with overinvolved but good-intentioned parents, bureaucracies and broken systems. However, I also know that, with hard work and support, programs can be rebuilt to former high levels (no matter the program). I have turned around lacrosse programs in my day (which was very rewarding), and it is not easy, but it can happen with dedication and the aforementioned hard work and support.

For way too long, we have settled with and have come to expect losing seasons. Why is that? It is not acceptable to allow that losing attitude to endure. It is time for things to change back to the way they were back in the day of the Underwoods, the Precopios, etc., and all the great players they coached, when you were proud to wear the Johnstown jersey - not because it meant something socially, but because you were a part of a family that had pride, dignity and a lot of fight. Old-school football needs to make its way back to Johnstown. I am ready for it. Are you?

As Jack stated, the kids deserve better. It is a great start with the new little league. However, it is just the beginning of what needs to be done. We need those stands full again. That will take effort from everyone, including the fans, players, coaches (whoever they are to be), Board of Education, parents, Purple & Gold club, etc. Please support all of the Johnstown programs (sports, music, drama, etc.). These kids deserve it. Thank you.

SCOTT MURPHY

Johnstown