I was especially proud of Jaden for volunteering to take the toughest team in his league. A few of the boys had some real challenges to deal with and Jaden spent the entire season coming very close to winning, but never quite getting there. The league director told me that of all the coaches in her league, Jaden was the only one no one had complained about. His boys LOVED him. And so, in the final game of the season, when his team WON by a single basket, a lot of us in the stands were completely overcome by emotion. You should have seen the way the boys ran to Jaden to hug and high five and hug again. It was seriously one of my proudest moments. This picture was taken right after that last game.
When Cole's coach presented him with his trophy, he said, "This young man is pure heart and soul." And then he got choked up, as he patted Cole's head. He said, "You're going to read about this young man someday."
Cole's best friend. Don't they look alike?
Cole's REAL best friend:
Little G. What do I say about the kid who keeps up with his older brother, practicing for HOURS, setting goals, working his little behind off? I'm pretty sure this quiet little man will do more than any of us imagined.
Finally, there's this precious little soul. She NEVER missed a game, cheered louder than any man, and made a new friend at every game.
2 comments:
That was the greatest post, Michele! Kids can learn so much about life through sports--hard work, working together as a team, accomplishing a goal, etc., etc., etc! That's so sweet that you included Brielle, also. She just has a lust for life and doesn't want to miss out on anything.
Dang, that just got me all choked up. What a cool sight to see those young boys run to Jaden after their biggest win and then what Cole's coach said to him. I'm excited to "shoot some hoops" with these boys this summer. They won't be able to guard me too close because of the big bump that will get in their way! Awesome post Michele.
Post a Comment