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I was unable to participate in the organization of the Eigth Annual Spiritfest this year but had committed to the week end of the event. I’m really appreciative of the way I was treated as a part of the team even though I was not involved really before yesterday. These wonderful people made sure I was included in most activities and treated me as if I had been involved all along. Thank you so much to everyone.
After yesterday, today was really a pleasure. We were tested with inclement weather but endured for the day yesterday and God rewarded us with a perfect soccer day today! The sun was shining, there was a slight breeze and the temperature was just about perfect.
This means that everyone who left yesterday feeling angry and frustrated, which was a great percentage of us, had such a perfect day that we forgot yesterday. It’s wonderful that the teams will leave Barrie remembering great weather, great competition and a great tournament. There were many comments about looking forward to next year.
Thanks to the tournament committee for a great job. Thanks to all the participants from all over Ontario who continue to support this event. Thank you God for treating us so well!
It’s such a pleasure to see this amazing tournament continue and all of these youth come from all over Ontario to support this event.
This tournament means a lot to me. My son brought me into the soccer world almost 20 years ago. Back then, I thought this was a stupid game. Really, that’s because I didn’t understand it. Five years later, I remember watching a world cup game for a few minutes while I was waiting to pick up some chicken wings at a local pub and being frustrated because the wings arrived too soon. I didn’t want to leave the game! When did that happen?!
His little sister, who is 20 now, idolized her big brother and followed in his footsteps. Outside left defense and number 2. Her little brother followed her, also outside left and number 2! Now my eldest son’s daughter is number 2, at least she was indoors this year and outdoor last year. I think she will be a striker though.
I lost my son, her father, to cancer last Thanksgiving. It will always leave an ache in heart but this tournament brings years of wonderful memories flooding back. It’s bitter sweet but I hope Spiritfest continues for many years to come. It will always have a special place in my heart and my life.
God bless you all and keep you safe!
Barry
P.S.
What am I thankful for today? I’m thankful for such a great day! I’m thankful my son left such a great impression on my life. I’m thankful he was such a wonderful father and left an angel (my grand daughter!) by my side for years to come.
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