By CONNIE NOLEN / Community Columnist

“As we transition to having fewer students, it’s even more important that we all work together for the best for these kids,” said PHS varsity football coach Brett Burnett.

Burnett hopes to encourage community support is by joining with Pelham’s Ballantrae Golf Course to host the Panther Classic Golf Tournament on April 25. This Pelham High School football fundraiser offers area golfers not only a day of fun and friendly competition, but also a chance to support Panther football.

With a 10:30 a.m. registration and a noon shotgun start, the Panther Classic begins with lunch provided for the golfers at 11 a.m. In addition to lunch, the Panther Classic entry fee covers the cost of golf carts, range balls, refreshments and many other treats.

Prizes will be given for longest drive, closest shot to the pin and, of course, for anyone landing a hole-in-one. The entry fee, which benefits the football players, is $100 per player or $400 per four-person team. Hole sponsorship is also $100.

Football administrative assistant Rosie Metcalf reports that two corporate sponsors already committed to the event are Champions Sports Medicine and Mobley Development. Knowing how the individuals behind these businesses are committed to making the dreams of young people, it’s no surprise that they are on board.

Arriving at the field house in time to get a photo of some of Pelham’s young men coming to the end of their freshmen year, their eagerness is apparent. They’re hungry for the next phase of their athletic career. They’re ready for the future. I know the kind of Panther football these young men have grown up watching and I also know that this is a group committed to excellence both in their studies and their athletics.

Taking their photo, I’m reminded that, as one of their teachers, I am inspired to go the extra mile by their hard work. These are kids who are earning our support with their efforts. Sign up for the Panther Classic by April 21 to make sure that your team secures its spot to back the Pelham Panthers.