By Jim Shapiro / Herald Forum
I have had the distinct honor and privilege of coaching football at King’s High School, located in Snohomish County’s Shoreline community, for the past 30 years.
Throughout these decades, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact of The Daily Herald, in particular, its coverage of high school sports.
First and foremost, I want to express my deep appreciation for the work The Herald’s team does in keeping our community informed and connected. The role of a local newspaper is immeasurable in fostering a sense of unity and pride among residents. Their dedication to providing comprehensive coverage of local events, particularly high school sports, has been a cornerstone of our community spirit.
High school sports coverage is more than just reporting scores and highlights. It captures the essence of our youth’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance. For many of our students, these moments on the field are the pinnacle of their high school experience. They are moments that are etched into their memories and celebrated by their families and peers. The recognition they receive in your newspaper validates their efforts and motivates them to strive for excellence, both on and off the field.
As a coach, I have seen how a simple mention in the local paper can light up a student’s face. It is a form of acknowledgment that goes beyond the applause in the stadium. It is a lasting record of their achievements, something they can hold onto and cherish. Moreover, for many of our students, particularly those who may not excel academically, sports provide a critical avenue for building self-esteem and developing essential life skills such as teamwork, leadership and resilience.
Your coverage also extends its impact to the families of these athletes. Many of our students at King’s High School come from hardworking families who take immense pride in their children’s accomplishments. Seeing their child’s name or photograph in the newspaper brings a sense of pride and joy that is incomparable. It is a testament to their support and sacrifices, and it strengthens the bond between the school and the community.
The high school sports section of your newspaper serves as a historical archive of our community’s achievements. It documents the triumphs and challenges of our youth, providing future generations with a glimpse into the past. This continuity is crucial in fostering a sense of belonging and pride in our community. Snohomish County is not just a place; it is a home where memories are made, and dreams are nurtured. Your newspaper plays an integral role in this narrative.
I understand that running a newspaper is an expensive endeavor. The challenges faced by print media in the digital age are formidable, and I do not underestimate the financial pressures you are under. However, I firmly believe that your investment in high school sports coverage is worth every penny. It is an investment in our youth, our community and our future.
Cutting back on this coverage would have far-reaching negative effects. It would diminish the recognition our students deserve, weaken the community’s connection to our schools, and erode the sense of pride that comes from seeing our local achievements celebrated. High school sports are a unifying force in Snohomish County. They bring together students, families and residents in a shared experience that transcends individual differences. This unity is more important now than ever, as we navigate challenging times and strive to maintain our communal bonds.
Moreover, the exposure provided by your newspaper can have tangible benefits for our students’ futures. College recruiters and scouts often rely on local newspapers to identify promising talent. By maintaining robust coverage of high school sports, you are contributing to the opportunities available to our students. Scholarships and college admissions can hinge on the visibility and recognition that only a local newspaper can provide. I urge you to consider the long-term value of preserving this vital aspect of your coverage.
I want to reiterate my gratitude for the work The Herald and its staff do and my earnest plea to keep high school sports coverage alive. The stories you tell are not just about games; they are about dreams, aspirations and the spirit of Snohomish County. They are about the pride we feel in calling this place our home.
Jim Shapiro is head football coach for King’s High School in Shoreline.
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