Head Soccer coach fired after missing district game for birthday dinner at Texas de Brazil

Coach Rick Thompson was unceremoniously relieved of his coaching duties at Meadowlark High School after skipping a crucial district soccer game to indulge in a meat factory celebration at Texas de Brazil.

Thompson, known for his passionate coaching style and tactical eccentricities, made headlines when he failed to show up for the highly anticipated match against their local rival in a playoff deciding match. Instead of pacing the sidelines, Thompson was spotted savoring succulent cuts of meat and basking in the salad bar at the popular Brazilian steakhouse.

Coach Thompson was quoted stated "I'm simply acting like the parents and players today, missing games when they feel like it. Commitment nowadays is half assed, not whole assed. If a player can miss a game for a birthday, why should I be there all the time? They'll figure it out without me."

"I've always been a firm believer in the importance of commitment to the sport," remarked Principal Sandra Roberts in a press conference following the dismissal. "But when a coach prioritizes prime rib over prime time on the pitch, it sends the wrong message to our players."

Despite Thompson's impassioned defense, some members of the soccer community were less sympathetic. "I take my son out of practice and games all the time. Commitment is only half the time anyways. Have you tasted the garlic sirloin at Texas de Brazil? It's to die for" remarked Karen Davis, a parent of one of the team members.

However, not all players were quick to embrace Thompson's culinary priorities. "Sure, birthdays are important," conceded team captain Jacob Ramirez, "but so are district games. I mean, I'd miss my own birthday for soccer, but I'm the only player that thinks that way"

As the controversy continues to simmer within the Meadowlark soccer community, one thing remains certain: Coach Thompson's departure serves as a cautionary tale, reminding coaches everywhere of the delicate balance between commitment to the sport and commitment to a sumptuous steak dinner.