I am writing in appreciation for the concern and assistance provided by the Yarmouth community during a difficult time for my family. My father-in-law, John Hodgman, suffered a catastrophic stroke while attending the Fryeburg Academy vs. Yarmouth boys soccer quarterfinal match Oct. 24 in Yarmouth. He was transported from the stands to the hospital, where he passed early Oct. 25.

I have coached the boys soccer team at Fryeburg Academy for seven years and have always been impressed by the class and sportsmanship exhibited by the players and fans of Yarmouth. My wife Kelley Hodgman-Burns, and her brother Michael Hodgman, were both standout athletes at Yarmouth, and John and his wife Ann have been attending Yarmouth athletic contests as well as their grandaughters’ games for over two decades.

The Yarmouth athletic department, the first responders, and the fans in the stands all did their utmost to assist my family that night and showed what a great community you have. A tragedy like this truly shows us what is really important in life. My family will be forever grateful to Yarmouth for the kindness shown to us during the tragedy and its aftermath. Thank you again, and any time we are not playing the Clippers, our family will continue to root for them.

Robert Hodgman-Burns
Fryeburg