S02 Episode 06: Burden and Blessing

In the final episode of 'Sacred Acre,' we return to Parkersburg to see how Ed Thomas is still impacting the town and the football program. A new interim head coach carries on the traditions, including an inspirational pregame speech.   Earlier in 2024, another school shooting in the state, this time in Perry. The circumstances, and the victims, hit close to home with the Thomas family.   And those closest to Ed Thomas reflect on his enduring legacy and the lessons learned from the tragedy of his murder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Om Podcasten

Step into the world of Sacred Acre with Tom Rinaldi, who's back for Season 2 as he uncovers the profound story of Ed Thomas, the legendary high school football coach from Parkersburg, Iowa. In this gripping 6-part series, Rinaldi takes you back to explore Thomas’s remarkable journey—from his acclaimed role as the 2005 NFL High School Coach of the Year to his pivotal role in rebuilding Parkersburg after a devastating EF-5 tornado. Just a year later, Thomas's life was tragically cut short when he was murdered by a troubled former player. Experience the impact of Thomas’s values of Faith, Family, Football, and Forgiveness through intimate interviews with those who knew him best. Each episode reveals how his legacy continues to shape and inspire his community even fifteen years after his death. New episodes of Sacred Acre drop every Thursday.  Follow & Subscribe to never miss an episode.