Have you ever felt like you weren’t part of the team? Maybe at school, on the playground, or  even with your own friends? That’s what happens to Matty Gordon in the book–“4th & Long: A Gridiron Parable.”

Matty is a freshman in high school, just as you were or might be someday. But unlike everybody else, Matty has Down syndrome. This means certain things are a little harder for him, even though he is quite smart.

Beginning at a new school can be difficult, but it was more challenging for Matty. He was both ignored and laughed at. Imagine feeling like you’re always on the sidelines, watching everyone else have fun. That’s not a good feeling, is it?

But Matty is a fighter! He didn’t let the bullies win. He kept continuing to be himself, kind and happy. And that’s exactly what everyone needs–to be themselves.

By a set of unlikely circumstances, Matty found himself working as a waterboy for the football team. One day, the football coach noticed Matty’s enthusiasm. He realized how important it was for Matty to be a part of the team.

Due to his physical strength, the coach decided to see if Matty could actually play football. At first, the team wasn’t sure about this, as they figured he’d be an unnecessary distraction. However, the coach knew something much more important: a team is strongest when everyone works together. 

Slowly but surely, things started to change. Matty learned the plays, as best he could, and practiced hard daily. He cheered on his teammates from the sidelines and kept everyone’s spirits high. The players started to see that Matty wasn’t just someone to be picked on–he was a great teammate!

Matty wasn’t an all-star, but he understood his role. His play solidified the team, and they began to improve. Suddenly, they found themselves contending to make the playoffs. Would Matty make the difference? Find out by reading this book.  Matty’s story teaches us a valuable lesson: everyone deserves to feel included and supported. The fact that someone is different, doesn’t exclude them from contributing in some way. When we work together and celebrate each other’s strengths, we can achieve amazing things, as Matty did with his football team. 

The next time you see someone feeling left out, remember Matty. Be kind, sensitive, and open to differences. You never know what you might find if you do.