Sun Journal Editorial: New Bern football needs our help!
This article reflects the opinions of the editor.
New Bern High School would like to recognize Norman Kellum and Walt Crayton, two community donors who purchased 2,000 t-shirts to help raise money for the championship rings and pendants.
It's been 7 weeks since New Bern High School's football team brought home the program's 4th state championship, beating Grimsley 40-28 in the 4A NCHSAA state championship game at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill.
Celebrations kicked into high gear when the Bears returned to New Bern that night. However, they have since slowed down as a level of seriousness is looming over the group due to a problem that in my opinion, should not be left up to the program or the school to solve.
Championship rings are a part of football culture in America, so popular that they've even been seen at the youth level. After an undefeated season and another state title win, the Bears are much deserving of a reward for them to help cherish this memory for the rest of their lives.
But they do not come cheap.
According to several Facebook posts from NBHS leadership, the championship rings cost $330 per player/coach and pendants for the cheerleaders cost $280 per. When you begin to think of the number of players, coaches and cheerleaders on the team, we are talking several thousands of dollars.
To help cover the costs, the school's booster club began selling championship t-shirts, but in the last week, more social media posts have shown there may be a concern that the program is in jeopardy of not being able to raise the funds.
Interestingly, I've seen several instances this year while working on different assignments of pleas to community businesses to help support the team. Unfortunately, they were turned away.
We have to step in!
I remember one instance before where an NBHS football championship team struggled to raise the funds for their rings. If I recall correctly, a local private benefactor stepped in at the last second and paid for the remaining balance. Times are harder now. We as a community may not be able to lean on one person to help this team but we can lean on each other to help them complete their season's journey.
They've already done so on the field, it's the least we can do for them.
So how can we help?
You can sponsor a player or cheerleader or donate any amount you'd like by going to https://square.link/u/EEw7iKtz?src=sheet. You can also buy a t-shirt.
If you are wanting to purchase a championship shirt and have it shipped you must pay through the GO FAN link provided on the New Bern High Athletic Bears Club Facebook page and fill out the google form in its entirety. NOTE: the club is not responsible for incorrect address information submitted. Please double-check that all info is correct before submitting the form.
Shipping is a flat rate of $6.00 regardless of how many shirts you order. Shirts will be shipped every Monday for the previous week’s order. Shirts will ship via USPS. The shirt cost $20 but the link will say $26. We’ve included the shipping already. NOTE: there will be a convenience charge when checking.
More information to sponsor a player, donate, or buy t-shirts can be found on Facebook at New Bern High Athletic Bears Club.
This article originally appeared on Sun Journal: Sun Journal Editorial: New Bern football needs our help!
