Coach's Notes on the FALL Program - When you love what you do, that is called passion
The FALL program came and went like a crisp wind, leaving behind a trail of sweat, growth, and memories that linger like the last light of an autumn day. As a coach, I’ve seen seasons come and go, but this one carved something deeper into my heart. It wasn’t just about drills or plays - it was about the fire in the players’ eyes, their unyielding character, and the way they grew into versions of themselves they didn’t know they could become.
This season, I was struck by the raw desire these players brought to the field. They didn’t just show up; they arrived with purpose, ready to pour everything into every sprint, every rep, every moment. Their character shone through in the way they lifted each other up, turning teammates into family. Resilience wasn’t just a buzzword—it was the way they shook off a missed play or a tough loss and came back hungrier. Determination was their heartbeat, steady and strong, pushing them through grueling practices under a fading sun.
The growth I saw was nothing short of inspiring. These kids started with raw potential, some unsure of their place, others brimming with positive energy. Week by week, I watched them sharpen their skills, find their confidence, and claim ownership of their progress. They didn’t just get better at the game - they grew into kids ahead of the game, youngsters who understood the value of hard work and the beauty of chasing something bigger than themselves.
One memory stands out, etched in my mind like a highlight reel. After a tough practice, one player approached me, his face a mix of exhaustion and hope. “Coach, did I improve?” he asked, his eyes searching for truth. I knew he’d grown - his footwork was sharper, his reads quicker - but instead of just saying so, I turned it back to him. “What do you think you can do better in your positioning, your timing?” I asked, knowing this kid thrived on challenges. His face lit up, not with doubt, but with fire. That question sparked something in him, and from that day, he attacked every drill with even more intensity, as if proving to himself what he was capable of. That moment wasn’t just about one player - it was a snapshot of what this team was made of: heart, hustle, and a hunger to grow.
As I reflect on the FALL program, I’m filled with pride for what these players accomplished. They didn’t just play a season; they built something- character, resilience, and a belief in themselves that will outlast any scoreboard. Coaching them wasn’t just about teaching the game; it was about witnessing their transformation and being reminded why I do this. They left the field better than they found it, and they left me a better coach for it. Here’s to the next season, to new challenges, and to the players who keep proving that growth is the greatest victory of all.
As for me, as a coach, it was another reminder about the old saying, "When you love what you do, that is called passion."
