Posts
One Word:
Coaching.
Today, I ran my first, full tackle football practice. It was glorious.
Due to my crazy schedule, I am never the head coach, but I always try to be an assistant coach so I can do a lot of yelling without getting into trouble.
When Alex played his first two years of flag football, he was on a team where he was, seriously, the only white boy. The rest of the team was all a big, Polynesian family. They were awesome! The boys played well, worked hard, and won a lot of games. This year, Alex started tackle and had to go through a 'draft' system where the first week was running drills and the coaches could look at all the kids and then, at the end of the week, select teams by choosing one kid at a time.
Well, Coach David (I can't even begin to pronounce his last name) approached me, said he wanted Alex on the team but the only way that could FOR SURE happen is if I were an assistant coach. So, I signed on, Alex resides on the team of his choice with all his friends, and tonight, I ran practice. I had arrived as a dad. I don't know if I have ever been happier or had more fun.
At the conclusion of practice, Alex approached me with a smile on his face, which surprised me because we conditioned all day, and said, "I didn't like you at all today!" I hope that makes my first day of football coaching a success!
Who are you kiddin'? You have been "coaching" since Alex has been walking! And in recent years from the sidelines as well, but mostly just in our back yard. Alex is playing today because of his dad's coaching and encouragement. You're a natural with it, Matt, and we all enjoy watching you take charge and pull out the best, not only in your boys, but now all the boys on the team. We'll keep watchin', you just keep coachin'!
Grampajo
Way to boss them around- a job only you could do!
No seriously that is so fantastic you get to spend that time with Alex.
You are making memories that will last 2 lifetimes! :)
I think it is great he smiled when he told you that. Proof he is glad to have his dad there!
Sounds like moments when we are parenting, too! If they don't like us, we must be doing something right...right? Cute post! I can hear it in your voice...you love coaching! I bet the boys will love you.
However, Jonathan says, "What a douche!"
*sigh*
Its amazing how hard the kids try and how much is expected of 8 yr olds, but just as amazing is that they can do it and like it after the fact that is!
We will be there cheering!!!