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Very Appreciated Role Reversal!
I’m 46 years old and not the same athlete as I was at 25! What is going through my son's mind watching his old Dad on the court? Will he think less of me?
In my early years of coaching high school lacrosse, I was also a goalie on a local men's post-collegiate club team. We traveled and played competitively in tournaments. It was a great time in my life! It felt like if I wasn’t playing, I was coaching the sport that I was in love with! I have always prioritized a close bond with my team as a player and as a coach. I feel it is important to show the athletes I coach that I care for them as individuals.
This team actually showed how appreciative they were by supporting and attending my games! I was always surprised by the turnout! Not only would my players come, but many of their parents would also attend! What an awesome feeling of support! It also provided a feeling of “Oh shit”! What about all of those fundamentals I preach about? What about the constant harping on bad habits? The never quit, do your best, fight through pain and weakness speeches that I consistently presented? As the game would start and I humbly saw the sidelines with familiar faces I was embraced by a sense of urgency and pressure! I had to be my best! I had to practice what I preached! It forced me to be accountable for my words! All in all, it made me a better player! I hate losing! I always…
