Don't take players for granted

People take a lot of things for granted in life.
In the United States, we often fail to realize the depth of our freedom.
There are many countries where this column, The Robesonian and anything with an ounce of opinion would be silenced and discarded.
We don't blink when we flip on the light switch nor do we pause as water calmly flows from our faucets.
In many places around the world, the fresh water and power we cavalierly utilize are rare delicacies — celebrated as if they were holy grails.
Fans and supporters of Lumberton High School should take note and appreciate what they have.
Jason Maynor, the Pirates' senior quarterback, isn't Peyton Manning or Tom Brady. But, more important than what he's not, is what he is — Lumberton's best quarterback and best chance at a Southeastern 4-A Conference championship.
"I think he doesn't get the credit he deserves," Lumberton quarterbacks and running backs coach Mackie Register said. "He pretty much runs our offense and it's a pretty complex offense, because you have to know what players are in the right positions and there is a lot of footwork involved with certain angles and stuff. He comes out every day before practice and throws, he's one of the first players out here every day, trying to make himself better."
A criticism leveled against Maynor in the past was his inaccuracy throwing and his inability to make the Pirates' passing game consistent.
Register and Maynor think those criticisms — founded or unfounded — are a thing of the past.
"He's getting better every day," said Register. "He's getting better at reading defenses, making better decisions and when to throw the ball away and when to run the ball. He's not forcing in as many balls as he did last year."
Said Maynor: "I'm a lot better than last year. We have a weighted football and everyday after school, I'd throw it. I think I'm better strength-wise and with my accuracy."
Lumberton will have five new offensive linemen this season and Register believes Maynor's new-found accuracy and confidence will help the linemen and the running game.
"With our line being a little inexperienced, if he can complete some passes it will take some pressure off the running game," Register said. "We're better at passing this year, so it's not just something we're going to do to set up the run. We may throw the ball more than two or three times a game this year."
Pirates fans and supporters should support Maynor in his last season at quarterback.
If not, a year from now, Joni Mitchell could be quite popular at Alton G. Brooks Stadium.
"Don't it always seem to go, that you don't know what you've got till it's gone."