We have entered the arena of football parents this year as John (our 9 year old) joined the rec football league. The first day he came home saying he did not like it, the second day was better because he hit someone, and after the third day it was all go.As a mom I was not really into him playing football. You know he might damage a growth plate, it feeds aggressive behavior, practice is almost every night interfering with dinner and our family rhythm. When John's highlight for the day is that he hit someone hard...something does not seem right. Thankfully and t
o my delight joining football has been a great outlet for John's passion. He has come alive and it shows in more then just football. His coaches have great things to say about John every game. He reminds me of "Rudy" but with the talent. He is small but surprisingly "hits" the big guys. Above you can see him playing nose guard (the green guy in front and in the middle), and he is ready!One day at a game one of his teammates got hurt. When John came off the field he compassionately asked if he was okay. The boy was not (in his estimation though I could see nothing wrong) and went into a long story why he was not. John listened and then reflected back to him what he heard. The boy was heard and I was proud to see the softer side of John. I am even thinking I will miss it when the season is over...but certainly not as much as John. This second picture is John (number 20) getting a pep talk from one of his coaches.
