The Art of Survival: Diary of a Sports Mom

I am passionate about many things, but my greatest joy has always been my children. I have successfully navigated the waters (and survived) of competitive sports. All three of my children parlayed their youth sports into collegiate athletic careers, running the gambit from Ivy, D1, and D3.

Years ago, I would spend idle time waiting for practices to end so I'd write my thoughts on recent struggles and victories as a parent of athletes. They were young then, only starting their journeys.

With one done with college, another graduating in a few weeks , and my "little one" already in her third year, I decided to get back at blogging. I have written new blogs. I have also been revisiting old blogs and adding the perspective of having survived to an updated version of the original blog. I know the topics are still relevant.

I don't pretend to be an expert. As a mom, it is truly my hope that my children left my nest only slightly scathed from enduring me as their mother. Following was my inaugural blog when this whole journey started so long ago, but really feels like it was just yesterday:

I am often in over my head. I have three kids doing three different sports. People think that's crazy. While it is logistically very exhausting, it is the best thing in the world for our kids. All three are very athletic and very competitive. And they all excel at their individual sports. I love that they don't have to compare their successes because they each have their own. My son excels at baseball and my two daughters are both very successful in their respective sports, water polo and tennis. The only thing I ever hear them argue about, in a fun way, is what ball sport is the best! I know we are so fortunate in so many ways. Our kids have each found a sport they love to play, are passionate about, and drives them to want to be better every day. I have witnessed so many parents push their kids over the years and I have seen so many kids struggle to find a sport that gives them meaning and purpose. I have also realized that not every child is meant for the next level, be it high school or college. Let's face it, the pro thing is such a finite possibility for any athlete! It's why I am constantly reminding my kids they need to have a "Plan B", which is my "Plan A", but I will never ever quash their dreams, if that's what they want. I will not pretend that I am not an intense person. That is just my personality. But I do not push my kids or expect other people's kids to make mine look good. I don't wear rose colored glasses even on the sunniest of days. I cheer for every kid, not just my own. I am not above letting an occasional negative comment come out. Sports are frustrating. We all get caught up in the heat of the moment. I have seen much over the years. And I have become leery of so many people and things. So much to share, dear diary.