Herm Edwards, an NFL Hall of Fame Player and the former coach of the New York Jets, said “You play to win the game” during a press conference in October 2002:
Edwards said the quote after the Jets started the season 2-5. A New York Times reporter asked Edwards if he needed to talk to the team about not giving up on the season, and Edwards responded with the simple statement, “You play to win the game”.

The quote has become iconic and is considered timeless and relatable. Some say the quote’s message is simple and can be applied to almost any situation in any sport. Then there is the meaning that was applied this past Thursday evening when Jonesboro-Hodge Middle School and Winnfield Middle School played a boys basketball game.

Sure, they both played to win, but there was no loser to be found and the victory that was achieved had nothing to do with scoring more points than the opponent.

This was not about a winning a basketball game.

This was about winning in the game of life. 

Every coach, player and fan enjoyed this victory. None though, more than Winnfield Middle School player, William Brumby. This young man won the hearts and admiration of every one who participated or witnessed the special moment that will forever be remembered by Brumby and his family.

For those who aren’t familiar with this courageous and inspirational young man, Brumby suffers from autism spectrum disorder. Simply put, it is described as a neurological and developmental disorder that affects how people interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. 

Before the contest between the two schools, the two head coaches, both who are Jonesboro-Hodge High School graduates, Carlos Hicks of JHMS and Asanti Belton of WHS got together to formulate a plan to allow Brumby the opportunity of a lifetime. 

It was decided that in order to honor Brumby for his dedication to his team and the courage he displays by refusing to let his illness stop him from being a part of the team and working hard every day in practice that at some point in the game he would be given the opportunity to make a shot. 

It took “buy in” by not only the coaches but all the players on the court as well as the plan was to make sure that Brumby not only would be able to take a shot but a shot that could be made. 

The plan worked to perfection. With the J-HMS players allowing Brumby to get the ball from his teammates close to the goal, he lofted it toward the hoop. UP, UP, UP the ball went as everyone in the gym joined in hope and prayer that the shot would go in.  

IT DID! 

The crowd and players from both teams went wild as cheers cascaded throughout the gym! Many had to wipe tears from their eyes after being overcome with the emotion of happiness for the young man. 

“That’s how it supposed to be,” said J-HMS head coach Hicks. “God had a plan tonight and it was for William Brumby. Sports is not about wins and losses it’s about life changing moments.”

What took place was the result of Hicks and Belton continuing to “coach” their players about the importance of “playing to win the game”. Both had been doing this a long time. For over a decade, Hicks has been teaching “life lessons” as a member of the JHHS football coaching staff, helping countless young men and women become productive adults. Belton not only “coaches up” his players as well, but having overcome incredible hardships health wise to be where his is today, is a living testament to what can be achieved through perseverance, hard work and unwavering faith. 

The score of the game? Who cares! Both teams won!