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Last game of the season...
Thirty seconds to go with the score 7-6. We just scored a touchdown, and the coach decides to go for two.
We want the win.
3 months ago, Alex swaggered onto the football field where he knew no one. His coach, Tito, welcomed Alex to the team with his big bear voice. We later learned this team had played together during tackle season for Hilcrest and Alex was not only the newcomer, but the only stranger on the team.
Practices went well and the coach discovered that Alex was a good student of the game and had a pretty good arm. Alex started taking snaps and overnight replaced the former quarterback which so happened to be the coach's son. Alex embraced the QB1 position and became a rallying leader on the fledgling team.
From the sidelines, I watched in awe as Alex did things I never dreamed possible. He took snaps, negotiated runs, drilled passes, and led his team to a 6-2 winning season. From completing deep bomb passes to 50 yard rushing scrambles, Alex did it all.
I know this sounds like a parent dotting over his son and could one be more tainted? Well, if you don't like it, go read seriouslysoblessed or something...
Anyway.
3o seconds to go till the end of the season and our team is going for two and the victory.
It's either euphoria or devastation, well, at least until Alex's TV time when either feeling will be forgotten.
30 seconds...
The play is given to Alex and it is a fake handoff bootleg pass/run, whichever is available.
Alex takes the snap.
Fakes to Jordan for the run. He bootlegs right (ladies this means he runs right).
Both receivers have double coverage and Alex is facing up to the linebacker. I look in Alex's eyes and they glow with intensity and determination. Alex bears down, tucks the ball and with all his strength and the weight of the teams hopes and success on those little nine-year old shoulders, he rushes for the end zone.
The linebacker closes in. Alex lunges and....
SCORES!Victory.
Perhaps the best thirty seconds of my life.
After the celebration from the kids and parents on the sideline, the coach gathered the players around him and started handing out trophies and pictures while the kids displayed as much excitement about their Oreos as their tremendous victory. The coach recognized the players for their accomplishments but then I noticed he had four game balls, which he personally purchased (what a stud), laying at his feet.
The first player received a ball for his defensive abilities. The second player as well. The third for being one of the best rushers in the league. And then finally, my heart stopped. He brought Alex to the front. The coach, again in his big, bear voice yet smoothed with compassion said, "When I saw Alex's name on the roster, I wasn't sure what we were going to get. I hope he's good!" He lauged. "But a team is only as good as it's QB, and I believe we have the best QB in the league. Alex, this game ball is for you and it has been a joy to have you on our team!"
The players and parents erupted with applause.
I passed out.
Proud.
You are so funny Matt, but I love how you write. It makes us feel like we were there experiencing this with you.
We are all proud of you too Alex!
You are the cutest quarterback I have ever seen!
That is A W E S O M E. I Hope we get to experience that someday as well. That is exactly what Alex needed oh and I guess you too:)
aweseome!!!! And you got it all on still...rad!
I am so happy for Alex and you too Matt. One question, do you read seriouslysoblessed????
Alex,
So sorry we missed it, but glad your Dad kind of remembers what happened! Ha! The pictures are super!!
You have Skills! my Boy Skills!
Love
Gma E & Gpa E
You should be 'Seriouslysoproud'. That is awesome. I love the pic's. His wedding video will be 2 days long.
Great post.
and p.s. I know what bootlegging is thank you very much.
Way to be Alex!!! I teared up a little reading this. Matt- I love the pictures
This actually brought tears to my eyes. Great description on the game - I felt like I was part of it all.
Way to go!! Garrett is playing T-ball this year and we are loving it! I can't wait for HS sports and games. Not that I'm rushing it.