To the editor:

In the first round of the Class 6A playoffs last Friday, Free State had a lead of 34-0 early in the second quarter and was on its way to virtually ending the game before halftime due to the 45-point mercy rule, which starts a running clock. However, Free State coaches elected to allow many substitute players to gain valuable and enjoyable playing time. The Wichita South players who seemed down and out before the end of the first quarter were rejuvenated and played with much greater enthusiasm, actually outscoring the Firebirds 12- 0. Many benefits are associated with high school football, and some of those benefits were present last Friday night at Free State High School.

Allen Ford,

Lawrence