KALAMAZOO (WKZO-AM) It wouldn’t be the first time that sports helped a community heal. Just as the Tigers helped riot torn Detroit in 1968, and the Yankees helped New York recover from 9-11, in its own way the undefeated Broncos couldn’t have come along at a better time for Kalamazoo.
It’s been a year that the murder rate has gone through the roof, peaking with the baffling mass murder in February and then compounded by the senseless bicycle tragedy in June.
Public Safety Lt. Scott Boling tells WZZM that the mood has definitely changed for the better this fall, and the team has brought a welcome releif. He says its refreshing. “When you make national news for tragedies its kind of heart-wrenching, but when you have this big event coming that is so positive, it energizes everybody.”
Discover Kalamazoo Director Greg Ayers says it’s given the entire community a lift. “all the energy and the success they have brought to the program, the university and the community has certainly been noticed. And there are lots of businesses that are prospering because of that, there are alot more out-of-town vistors coming because of Bronco Football.”
Head Coach PJ Fleck mentioned the effect at his latest news conference. “This is what is phenomenal about sports, it brings people together. It gives people release, it gives people a chance to believe in something bigger than just yourself. and it doesn’t have to be spiritual, it can be a football team made up of 18 to 22-year-old young men.”
It doesn’t replace the pain of the lives lost or the damage done, but it does offer proof that good things can happen too. It’s also reassuring to know that a group of young men, including Fleck, who have worked hard toward a common goal can have it pay off.
In a year when Kalamazoo was making national headlines for all the wrong reasons, it’s good to end the year with something positive. Let’s hope it lasts right through New Year’s Day.
