- November 1, 2024
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Senior Miracle Porter scored nine first-half goals to lead Matanzas to a 16-0 win over Ed White. All the goals were scored in the first 40 minutes of the game. I remember wincing, when I heard about this.
There is no doubt about it. Coach Tony Benvenuto wanted Miracle to capture Florida’s all-time scoring record — which she did — and Porter wanted it even more. And, on the path to that record, issues like blowing out teams with gaudy numbers while also risking player safety went along with.
When I first thought about this, I felt more against than for it. To embarrass teams for the sake of a record seems a bit prideful. And what if Porter snaps an ankle in a blowout match, therefore sending the Lady Pirates’ hopes of any postseason success down the drain? Would the risk be worth it?
After more consideration, I agree with Miracle and Coach.
When athletes compete in their sports and approach distinguished records, I’ll say everything LEGAL is fair in attempts to break those records. I understand opposing players, parents and coaches may disagree, which is their right, but moments like these only come once in a lifetime.
And yes, Porter could’ve gotten injured, when Matanzas was either winning or losing by six goals in meaningless, garbage time. I’m sure she and Benvenuto understood that. There will be risks in everything we do that’s noteworthy, and it’s our right to take those chances or not.
While talking with FPC track coach David Halliday a few days ago, he shared with me how the winner and fourth-place runner in the 100-meter dash at the Rio Olympics were separated by just 0.12 split seconds. Then, he asked if I remembered his name. I don’t remember any of their names — except the winner’s.
The truth is few players from winning and losing teams will remember most of the scores from the individual matches this season. But, whether anyone remembers or forgets who Florida’s all-time goal scorer is from here until her record is broken, they will be able to look up the record board, and Miracle Porter will be sitting at the top.
Watch Porter celebrate with her teams after she nails record-goal 230:
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