Soccer has always been a passion for myself. I grew up playing the game, I loved, for about 18 years but after retiring and becoming a coach, you never know what to expect or what you are getting yourself into. When I took an assistant coaching position at Plainfield High School for their men’s soccer team, I was welcomed into a family, a family that has been going through a grieving process of a fallen family member. I have never been so proud and honored to be apart of something and work along these student-athletes, who have shown so much passion and love for the game and their friend, Haris Suleman, who passed away this summer.
From WTHR’s website:
“That number 14 represents just a little more than a number, but a student, athlete, sibling and son,” “As we play the sport we love, I challenge you all to go and live like Haris.”
A quote from junior Plainfield Soccer player, Ali Ahmed, who helped honor and remember, not only a friend but a teammate before Tuesday’s night soccer game.
Tragedy stuck the whole community of Plainfield over the summer when Haris Suleman was helping raise money by flying a one engine plane, with his father, around the world in 30 days. Suleman, who was apart of the Plainfield High School Soccer team, was honored as his number 14 was retired Tuesday night as Plainfield was to take on Cardinal Ritter.
Hundreds of students, family, friends gathered for the game Tuesday wearing their white t-shirts with the number 14 and Suleman on the back, but due to the weather, the game was then postponed after only being able to play 11 minutes due to lightening and rain.
For the complete story, coverage, and video of the ceremony can be seen at http://www.wthr.com/story/26322087/2014/08/19/plainfield-soccer-team-remembers-teammate-haris-suleman
Credit for photos, video, and story to: WTHR, Channel 13 Indianapolis
