Today was homecoming for my girls school football team. I had been looking forward to catching a game because I coached a couple of these kids at baseball this summer. Both kids have so much talent and I was excited to see what they brought to the gridiron.
There was a good crowd in attendance. It was a balanced mix of students and parents on an overcast yet mild afternoon.
Unfortunately for the home team, they were facing a tough squad from a school known for its sports programs, and it showed on the scoreboard. They were out sized as well, with the opponents stopping our kids three times from the goal line to keep the scoreboard at zero throughout the match.
Although it was a lopsided game, there were many great plays on the losing end including from my former players. One was even awarded player of the game, which comes in the form of a wrestling belt. I may have to incorporate something similar next year instead of game balls. Warrior of the game, perhaps. Something viking themed.
It’s great to see my kids in attendance showing school spirit. These are the memories that high school is made of. Hayleigh was cute as she was asking lots of questions about what was going on. She has many friends on the team and has even hung out for practices. She also stayed back after the game so she could talk to her friends afterwards and was willing to take the bus rather than drive home with us.
These games might be the last ever played on this field. We never know what will happen with this school once these kids move back into their permanent home. It’s a shame. This energy brings so much to our communities.