LETTERS: COACH MECFERREN DOESN'T NEED HELP OF OFFICIALS TO WIN

To the editor:

I was somewhat amused by a Speak Out comment concerning my officiating New Madrid Central's state championship basketball game and helping the team win a state title. The caller erroneously stated that since I was from the area, I wouldn't have been impartial to a local team and I would have helped Coach McFerren win his game. Here are the facts.

1. I officiated Hannibal vs. Liberty on Friday and Vashon vs. Liberty on Saturday for the 4A title game.

2. New Madrid played Hickman Mills for the 3A title, and the two officials were from St. Louis and the Springfield area.

3. I watched Coach McFerren and his fine team win his ninth state title and can say I was proud to see an area team win.

4. Our state association tries to be as impartial as possible.

5. I can guarantee Coach McFerren doesn't need help from the officials to win. He has about 30 years of winning to prove it.

JERRY DEMENT

Sikeston Public Schools

Sikeston, Mo.