Middle school football isn’t just about learning the basics of the game— it’s a vital part of teaching young athletes teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of community. For head coach Bob Johns and assistant coach Travis Gould, the goal is clear: foster growth both on and off the field, preparing these boys for high school sports and life.

“This is where it all begins,” said Coach Johns. “We push these kids hard, but it’s always with the bigger picture in mind. We want them to grow not just as athletes, but as individuals who can lead by example and lift each other up.”

This year, the Munising Middle School Football Team achieved a major milestone when they successfully completed the Booster Club’s challenge: fill 15 volunteer shifts at sporting events, and the Booster Club would purchase 18 new sets of shoulder pads for the team. Thanks to the dedication of the parents and community, the boys are now equipped with the best and safest gear.

“Coach told us what the goal was—fill the slots—so we filled them,” said parent volunteer Valerie Ford. “The Booster Club made it easy for us. Parents of athletes aren’t afraid to add more to our plates; we’ll do anything for our kids.”

The new shoulder pads, valued at nearly $100 each, represent more than just equipment; they reflect the town’s commitment to the safety and success of its young athletes. “I just want the safest gear for our young players,” Johns said. “If they’re less likely to get hurt, they’re more likely to keep playing.”

Booster Club Vice President Kayla Perron outlined how the support works: “Usually, we ask for quotes from different vendors, and then we have the team fill concession spots to help raise funds. Sometimes we can only cover part of the total cost, so teams have to find other ways to fundraise.”

For Coach Travis Gould, the investment in equipment mirrors the investment they are making in the boys themselves. “We’re preparing them not just for the next game, but for the future,” Gould said. “These kids are learning to push themselves, to be accountable, and to lead by example. That’s what middle school football is all about—laying the groundwork for success, on and off the field.”

This year, the Munising middle school football team has faced not only the usual challenges of practices and games but also the emotional challenge of supporting one of their own—11-yearold Jackson Lasak, who was recently diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Though Jackson is unable to play this season, his presence on the team is felt every day. In a show of solidarity, the team now wears “Jackson Strong” stickers on their helmets, reminding them of their teammate’s bravery and grit.

The stickers were sponsored by Ramsey and Cori Cearley, longtime supporters of Munising sports, who wanted to ensure Jackson and his family felt the community’s support. “We wanted to do something to make sure Jackson and the whole Lasak family know they are thought of every day,” said Ramsey Cearley, Sr. “When Coach Johns brought up the idea of the stickers, my wife immediately wanted to purchase them for the team. It’s a visual representation of the support he has behind him every single day in his fight.”

The stickers serve as a powerful reminder of Jackson’s courage and the support of his teammates. “The stickers are really cool and nice,” Jackson said. “It makes me feel a part of the team even though I can’t physically play.”

Ramsey Cearley, Jr., 14, echoed his father’s sentiments, adding, “Jackson is my friend, and I will miss playing with him this year. We pray for him every night.”

Coach Johns, who has led the team through both challenges and triumphs, made it a point to ensure Jackson felt like a part of the team despite his absence from practices. “Coach Bob has gone out of his way to make my son feel welcome,” said Nicole Lasak, Jackson’s mother. “That says a lot about the type of program he runs.”

The middle school football team has thrived under the guidance of Johns and Gould, who emphasize teamwork, accountability, and persistence. Gould, in particular, is committed to teaching the boys the value of perseverance. “I always tell these kids, control what you can control,” he said. “If one person jumps offsides, the whole team runs. You win and lose as a unit.”

Sullivan Ford, 12, has been waiting his entire life to finally wear tackle pads, and now, with the new gear, that dream has become a reality. “It hurts. You take beatings. That’s football,” he said, proudly displaying a red mark on his arm—a badge of honor he’s been eager to earn for 12 years.

For the coaches, football is about more than just physical toughness—it’s about preparing these boys for the challenges of life. “One of my favorite quotes is from a Rocky movie,” said Gould. “It’s not about how hard you can hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. That’s what we teach here—resilience, growth, and heart.”

Coach Johns and Gould have built a program that instills confidence and camaraderie, focusing not only on the wins and losses but on fostering a sense of community and responsibility. “We preach constantly that this is a team sport,” Johns said. “When we tell the kids to take a lap, the fastest runners are expected to go back and run with their teammates who are struggling. No one finishes alone.”

The new shoulder pads and the “Jackson Strong” stickers are just two examples of the strong bond that unites this team and their community. Whether it’s on the field or off, the Munising middle school football team has shown that they are more than just a group of athletes—they are a team.

Through the volunteer efforts of the parents, the guidance of the coaches, and the support for Jackson Lasak, the team has built a foundation that will carry them far beyond the football field. This foundation is the key to future success, especially when looking at the achievements of the varsity team. As Coach Johns put it, “These kids are learning to push through tough moments, to be there for one another, and to lead with kindness. That’s what makes them stronger, both as players and as people.” What they learn now is what prepares them for high school and beyond.

The community is welcome to come out and support the Middle School Football Team. For an up-todate Mustang sports schedule, visit Munising Schools Events at munisingathletics. com. Additionally, those interested in supporting concessions or joining the Booster Club can follow their Facebook page at @ MunisingBoosterClub.