Me and My Dad
I can't remember a single volleyball or basketball game that my Dad missed when I was in 7th - 12th grade. He made time to be there. He and my Mom drove many miles sometimes to be there. It was important to me and it was important to him. Sometimes everyone in the gym knew he was there as he shared his exuberant cheering with all, but I would rather have an exuberant father in the stands than one who stayed at home. My parents and I would often ride home together after the away games and that gave us a great chance to strategize over the whole game - the goods and the bads.
We played "Pig" at the hoop he set up for me. My Dad was a good shot, too. The only way I had a chance of winning was to stand at the free throw, turn around, arch my back like I was doing the limbo and hurl it over my head towards the hoop. I had to perfect that shot so I always had one he couldn't quite get.
No matter what sport, my Dad was supportive. He even made it to a few of my college games. He and my Mom were there for my last home volleyball game at Northland. He even was able to watch me play soccer once on Guam when we, the faculty team, were playing against my high school girls team.
I knew sports was a realm that my Dad and I could always connect in, so I got involved as much as possible and I put my heart into it too - because I knew my Dad was up there in the stands cheering me on. I think that had a definite impact on the type of athlete I became. I wasn't the braniac in the family (all of my sister's were valedictorians - I was 7th in class rank). There were other areas that my sister's clearly had been more gifted then I. They all played brass instruments like my Dad - I played the flute. So while they had their areas to connect - I had sports. We had a good time together through the years at all those games and on all those trips. I was truly blessed to have 2 parents in the stands supporting me when so many kids are lucky to have one.
So Dad, thanks for helping make me a stronger athlete and for being there. Happy Father's Day.
2 comments:
I love that picture of you and your father. I remember your parents coming to our games. I am glad you're with coach and mrs.h. Were you helping with the camp last week? I LOVE your new home. I think I'll come there on vacaton....alone :):) ps. I just passed a sign in Michigan called 'wiffi'...isn't that funny!
Thanks - I like the picture too. :) Yes, I've been helping with the camp a little. I've had to work too, so I've been able to be there 1/2 days and today a full day. It's been fun.
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