Ten years.   It has been ten years since Don and me attended a Mehlville Football Banquet.  We looked so forward to going to the banquets when our boys played.  I remember all the work that our fellow Booster parents would do to get ready for the night.  It was by far one of the highlights of the year and one I looked forward to for eight straight years.

Then, we went a couple of years of not attending.  Following Mark's death in 2007, we attended the banquet that fall when John presented the first Mark DeWalle Courageous Heart Award.  It was the result of a promise Coach Heyde, Mark's former teammates, and our family made to Mark before he died.  We didn't attend another one until tonight.

We knew every year when the banquet was being held and knew that the coaches would be presenting the award.  Many times I wanted to sneak into the banquet so I could see the award being presented.  Many years I scheduled myself on purpose to work so that we weren't available.  I don't think I could do that anymore.

As each player was introduced, I felt that they were my kid, my player, my son.  Even though I don't know the players personally, I felt like I did.  I tricked myself into thinking I knew what their inside jokes were.  It warmed my heart to hear teammates cheering each other on, slapping each other on the backs, taking pictures afterwards.  Some things never change and for a few hours it felt like 1995-2001. 

As always, we were humbled by the coaches.  I know how much time these gentlemen give up their own family time.  I also know how much their players love them.  I was so impressed with Coach Heinemann telling his players that he loves them.  I know it wasn't just words...you could feel his pride.

Some of Mark's coaches are still there.  We were immediately greeted with hugs from Coach Meyer,Coach Phoenix, Coach and Mrs Ghormley and of course, Coach Gegg.  It was interesting when Mark was planning his funeral....he was adamant that Coach Gegg have a part in his funeral and Coach Gegg agreed to read the petitions at his funeral.  Even though Coach Beauchamp had never coached Mark...Mark felt that he had a connection with him and Doc.  I remember Mark making an interception against Lindbergh when these two coaches had left Mehlville to coach at Lindbergh.  Doc threw his clipboard.  Mark loved it and loved it even more when Coach Beau would tell us of houses he knew were for sale in Lindbergh so Mark could play there.  I also remember the class that Coach Beauchamp and Doc had when they gave their sincere condolences to our family when we lost Mark. 

I was so impressed with how nice the banquet was and everything the Booster parents had done.  I know the work that is involved.  What outstanding parents this program has had this year.

But, the highlight for us was when Coach Heinemann presented the Mark DeWalle Courageous Heart Award.  I could not stop the tears.  I felt Markie there and as I listened to the words the Coach read...snippets of John's feelings for the program, his brother and what the awards represents, I remembered the promises made.   We have no input, as well as it should be, into who is awarded this medal.  Yet, earlier in the evening when Coach was describing the work ethic and character of Cameron Kozeny, I thought to myself.....he should get it.

When Coach announced Cameron's name, a young man I had never met, I couldn't help but feel Mark saying "See, Mom...see, Mom.....a real Panther got it."

Cameron gave Don and me hugs, and I am sure the last thing he wanted to do was hug an old lady in front of his teammates.  He told us he was very proud, very blessed.

Coach mentioned earlier the brotherhood of the Panthers....and I am know in my heart that Mark is pleased this young Panther brother of his is this year's recipient.  What class Coach has in inviting Don and me to attend this event this evening. 

Please go to the Mark DeWalle Courageous Heart Medal link at the left.

Congratulations, Cameron.  Always remember your Panther brothers.