Published: November 06, 2009 10:36 am      

READERS' FORUM 11-8 | Youth team, fans provide ‘aha’ moment

After having served several years in the Navy and then working in Washington, D.C., I returned to Johnstown. Recently, I had an aha moment that reinforced why I am so glad, and blessed, to be back in my hometown raising a family.

Many of The Tribune-Democrat’s readers are already familiar with your coverage of the story of Austin Nail, the Conemaugh Township Youth Football player with an eye disease that is rendering him blind.

The response from his CTYF community, and our region in general, to help offset the medical expenses associated with experimental treatments in an attempt to help him regain his sight has been extremely generous and heartwarming.

What really reinforced for me what a special area we live in occurred during our recent Youth Football League season.

CTYF was hosting games with the Conemaugh Valley Youth Football teams. The Minor League teams were finishing their game as we arrived in the stands to await the start of the Majors. The Minor League players lined up to shake hands following their game and an announcement came over the public-address system.

The CVYF Boosters had collected a donation – from “their” community – and were presenting a check at the 50-yard line to the Nail family.

Wow … and a bit of a gasp from the (rival) CT fans.

What a proud and humbling moment. Kudos to the CVYF program parents, players, cheerleaders and community for that moment.

Aha.

Dave Strayer

Davidsville