Football is hard

Having a son that plays football has taught me a lot about dedication, sportsmanship, and willingness to go all in for the team.  It amazes me because when I was a teen I  wasn't really interested in team sports. I much preferred doing things like biking, building, and running wild and free in the country.  I got into music and joined a garage band with some friends, but we never really took it too serious.  Football on the other hand requires a boatload of dedication. Early morning weightlifting and video review sessions, after school practice, games every week or two, and many bumps and bruises to heal from in between. It's amazing to see the level of dedication from the coaches and referees to family, classmates, and friends who show up to watch, coordinate, or volunteer. Beyond anything else there;s so much that goes on during the game that requires skill full thinking and improvisation.  Having different perspectives from the sidelines vs the dynamic out on the field on cheers, boos, calls made by refs, and the split second decisions made by the coaches and team mates, it's a complicated yet beautiful mess.  

The team didn't win many games this year, but they played amazing in spite of various player injuries, some arguably bad calls, and other slip ups. They played hard right down to the last second every game. Even this last game, after a penalty called in the final seconds, as they got a touchdown that inevitably didn't count, it feels like the ref just pulled the rug out from under them. You have to wonder how he feels about it too, perhaps he stands by it due to his perspective on the field or personal experiences, perhaps he thinks he made a mistake but it's too late to change his mind. Who knows, he made a call in a game, and sometimes luck isn't in your favor. Maybe it was meant to give the team a rest to heal up, grow stronger, and get right back to it. With training camps and off season leagues, it's never really over if you are dedicated enough. I hope some day I can feel that dedicated about a sport, but for now, family and too many hobbies are my jam.

Until next time, appreciate each other and don't work too hard! Or do work hard, but enjoy every moment.