You think it sucks now... just wait until you're twenty-four driving to your own home instead of your parents.

You think that all of the hateful comments about how you only play because your dads the coach are bad, just wait until you no longer go straight to the cages after your school day to meet your dad. Throughout my entire softball career, I played for my father; travel ball and school ball. So, believe me when I say I know what it feels like to be pushed harder than your teammates. I know what its like to get the fatherly ass chewing in the middle of an inning. Trust me when I say that the coach's daughter never gets a break. When the tournament ends, guess who you get to ride home with? Your dad AND coach. You hope and pray that he talks about the game because a silent car ride means you did something wrong that cost you the game.

It hit me today... I was driving back to my own home after meeting my dad to do some Christmas shopping. I find myself asking him for just one more hug before my hour drive back; during my one last hug, I realized that I miss being 'the coach's daughter'.

Athletes typically dread their last game played; they feel as if they are losing a piece of their being. I thought differently; I dreaded losing late night cage sessions with my dad. Those late night cage sessions acted as our one-on-one time; bonding hours. This was space where hard work was expected, but also welcomed conversations. Cage talks were always genuine, full of advice, and shared memories.

So, coach's daughter, instead of wishing the minutes away in the cage, take them all in; one by one. Because one day when you are driving home at twenty four years old, you will break out in tears. Tears of regret and sadness. Don't think about all of the times you got chewed out for making an error or walking a batter; instead, reflect on the big bear hugs you received walking out of the park past midnight, all of the 'you made the difference' talks after big wins, the cage talks where your dad gives you boy advice (or at least tried), focus on all of the passion that you both shared for this sport; because one day you will no longer be an athlete.

Take in all the stereotypical comments from outsiders; smile and prove them wrong. Take in the countless hours in the cage with your dad; because one day the cage will disappear. Take in the arm over your shoulder leaving the park; because one day you will no longer be called 'the coach's daughter'.