Well, there are 16 other sets of parents that can make this same statement... My son was drafted by the Cowboys! Alright, so I can't move into a bigger house yet since he is only 11 years old but its fun to say. This weekend we received an email notification from our new coach within the Frisco Football League (FFL). This will be my son's 3rd year playing in the FFL.
During the first 2 years, my son played for the Wildcats. GREAT group of kids and parents. We got together often after games so the kids became very close. During the first year, we had many new players to the FFL so the expectation was for the kids to learn the game, don't get hurt, and have some fun. My son had hopes of playing Running Back. He is really fast, but as you can see from the photo, not a ton of meat on those bones. Instead, he played a defensive back and corner back.
There he is to the left - #21 in White
Year number 2 brought us a few new players, but many returned for another season with the Wildcats. He opted try out for wide receiver instead of playing defense. The league consists of many running teams (at least this age group). Seldom does a team throw the ball. Well, during the 2nd year, out coach decided to open it up a bit and hit our Wide Receivers and Tight Ends. In the beginning we had a lot of interceptions and dropped balls. We continued to work on the passing game and by the end of the season, we were completing passes and doing a better job at protecting our quarterback. As a matter of fact, in the last game of the season, my son caught a toss about 7 yards out and ran like crazy for another 30+ yards for a touchdown. It was our teams best game of the season. We won 25-7.
As for me... I am one of those parents that likes to be on the field. I'm not a coach, but I like to talk with my son and give him tips. No.. I do not live through my son. It's not a dream of mine for him to play football when he grows up. I didn't play on a team when I was a kid. When I was 12 I was playing football with some friends of mine. Ended up getting clipped and tore all 3 ligaments in my left knee. Football keeps him busy and he is good at it. He is one of the fastest kids on any team/sport he plays and has great hands (completely unlike me).
He has grown to really enjoy playing the Wide Receiver position more than on the defensive side. His wish for season 3 was to play WR again and get a few more throws his direction. Unfortunately, Quinten broke his wrist during the off-season so we ended up skipping the 3rd year. I guess it was for the better as many of the other players decided not to return either, which caused the rest of the players to be placed back into the draft.
Well, this year we are with new parents, kids, and organization. This Cowboy's team is a returning team but only have 16 players for 22 positions. That means many boys will play both sides of the ball (offense and defense). As a kid, I know I would like to play both sides... but not in Texas. Sure, its not too a bad deal in October or November... but in August/September it gets a little TOO hot in Texas to play this much football in pads. I'm sure the coaches will make sure the kids get plenty of rest and water.
Football is so much fun. I love watching the kids play and improve throughout the year. During home games, I would even get to play Announcer. I had fun with their names (some nicknames) and played TONS of music during the breaks.
The kids practice 3 times a week (M/W/F) and play their games on Saturdays. I understand the need for practice, but it keeps parents pretty busy. But, we do it to ensure the kids get plenty of practice which helps them learn the correct procedures for hitting. The better the practice, the better our chances of someone not getting hurting or hurting ourselves.
This should be another fun year, whether I am announcing, helping on the sideline, or sitting in the stands. I am always proud at the effort my son puts in. He has really grown to love this sport. As long as he is not in any harm, I'll continue to support him and push him to give his very best. I'll keep you posted with how we do. Practices won't start until the end of August and out first game will be in September. Wish us luck!
GO COWBOYS!
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John congratulations! That's pretty exciting for all of you!
Thank you Connie. We enjoy the games on Saturdays. My son has really grown to love football too. He was nervous the first year, but not any more.
Looks like you had an exciting Saturday. I'm glad you could say that. Maybe someday I would too?
John - I would be gloating about that, too! Very cool stuff!
Loreena - It will a lot of fun. We are looking forward to the season starting.
Jason - I think what will be the most odd is that I'll be wearing a Cowboy jersey with my last name on it. I had a duplicate made for myself to wear during game days. And he just happens to be JERSEY # 81. Perfect timing since the Dallas Cowboy #81 is open this season.
What an awesome thing to be able to brag about! I know you are one proud father! Isn't it fun to be our childrens #1 fan!
Does he play soccer too? Or baseball?
Congratulations! Go number 21! Enjoy these days and memories. They sure grow up fast! We can definitely tell you that. You blink and well they are out the door. Know you are proud of all the hard work and dedication your son has put in. We might see him in the NFL one day and say remember...
Dick and Dixie Sells
Hi John, Sounds like your son may have a natural talent. Encourage him in it. He could get a college scholarship.
Congratulations John, enjoy your son and the game; all the best ~ T
Naoma - I tell him that all the time. Its great.
Angelia - He does actually play soccer, but no baseball. We tried to sign him up when he was much younger and he didnt like it. So, he has not been back since.
Dick/Dixie - I believe that time does go back quickly. Its already gone by fast and its just going to get worse. For me, I'd prefer he not play football professionally but if it happens than I'll be there for support. Im excited to see what they will be when they grow up but I dont want to rush it either.
That would be nice Shirley. Anything to help with college payments nowadays would be great.
Thank you Teral. Im sure we will have a great year.
John, Enjoy the moment - they grow very fast as you know, Karen
I am finding that out Karen. As you got older, your parents always told you this but you don't really know until your kids grow up in front of you. Time flies when you are having fun.