It’s sad but true. Just can’t imagine the color it would be. I coached for 7 years, my kids have played even longer. I’ve watched kids grow up literally on the soccer field. I hate the rain, my players love it. I have rain boots in my car simply for the purpose of walking across muddy fields. I’m up at 5:45 on a Saturday morning to get to a 7:15 am game. Travel all over watching my children succeed and fail, learn the lessons of teamwork and reach their personal bests and lows….sounds wonderful right?
It’s this thing called “community” or “family” if you will. Yesterday I watched a Stadium JV soccer game, and looked down the line of parents. Great people. People who support their kids, want the best for them, and take time off of their day to be there for their daughters. My kids play for Premier teams and the cost is not cheap, but they are great people. My little people get good grades, are committed, devoted and hold themselves to high levels of expectation. The weeks of training go by, the seemless endless games and the triumphs and heartache, yet, I know I need to enjoy every moment. I must try anyway!
I’m told by those wiser than me that eventually it all ends. That the endless scheduling, carpools and activities come to a halt and there is a void that comes from leaving your community behind. I’ve made friends, business deals, and strengthened my own family on the soccer sidelines. I value and treasure each relationship I’ve developed. I can’t imagine one Saturday waking up to no soccer. I’ve become the master juggler and have learned to balance my work life (yes, I work weekends), and my family life. It’s a joy to do both and the exhileration of doing both well is something I strive for daily!
I guess the answer is to enjoy the ride, live it fully and try to keep up! I realize now, I can’t imagine it because I don’t want it to end!
