This comes a few days after the conclusion of 3 straight weekends of soccer because to be honest the emotions were just too raw on Sunday. I wasn't sure why, hormones, frustration over parent behavior (mine included), irritation at poor sportsmanship from opponents, etc. It wasn't until I looked at the date yesterday that it hit me. Even while living in the moment of the here & now, your sub conscience remembers.
Our last game Sunday was very important, not that any leading up to this point weren't, but because of the decisions made by the coach of the previous game as well as our team not playing to the best of their abilities, it was that much more important that we get the win.
As I sat on the sideline during the halftime break with our team down 0-2, I began to pray St Patrick's Breastplate. I said it over & over & over.
When the girls returned to the field, I felt an overwhelming wave of emotions to the point I had to get up and walk away. I hurt for them but was so proud! As I was walking away, I continued to watch the play on the field. I saw IVZ receive the ball and make a run. I watched her do this at least 3 times. I watched her open up her stride and appear to float, with the ball at her feet, across the field. While she never made it in the net, she shot and got right back in there. EVERY girl out there, fought, won the ball, looked for the open opportunity and GOT BACK IN THERE!
I told IVZ that morning, thanks to the wise words of my co-manager, win or lose, D1, D3, Lake Highlands or Plano, I was proud of her! She is stronger, more confident and athletic than I EVER was or am! I continue to pursue my goals because of HER!
In the end, the final second of the game, we took a corner kick and it was a beautiful moment. The ball sailed through the air & hooked right into the top right corner to tie the game! Through everything, the rejoicing of the parents, the tears of joy on the girls' faces made it all better. We may not always get along, we may not see eye to eye but in a family who always does? That's what we are, family.
Now as far as the emotions and why they were so overwhelming, Sunday marked 2 years since Grandpa Beach left to watch over us from heaven. He didn't get to see IVZ play a lot, but when he did, he loved to see her run. So, I believe in my heart, 100% he was the wind beneath her wings!
I want to conclude my post today by thanking our coach & the founder of our club. First, Coach, your consistent pushing them to dig deeper, your patience, your honest reflection on how you can be better and how you have NEVER given up on them makes you stand out above all the rest! Lastly, but surely not least, Coach Smith, your integrity in the face of criticism proves that this Club is not about how many wins we have but about what type of players we are developing! Thank you for your constant support and strong faith!
05G Penn is ready to take on this next challenge! Wish them luck!
