Being a coach's kid definitely has its perks and maybe a few downfalls. But the opportunities and fun make it all worth it. Any child of a coach or athlete know these 11 things to be true.
1. You've grown up in the office.
If both of your parents worked like mine did, you probably spent a lot of time in the coaching office. Every snow day and day without school was likely spent in the conference room where you had free reign of the television and mini fridges.
2. The athletic department raised you.
You knew every single coach in the athletic department, and they all knew who you were. You definitely have had a babysitter from almost every female sports team.
3. You had free reign of their facilities.
Whether you were there visiting them or it was during a game, you were able to run free in the facilities. The basketball gym was my personal kickball and basketball court, and the hallways were the perfect place for a massive game of hide-and-seek and tap-tap on.
4. You're known as "Coach's Kid."
Everyone in the athletic department probably knew you, and either referred to you as Coach's kid, or if they knew your name its probably because they've known you forever. You probably don't know half of the people who know your name, and everyone is always watching.
5. "Where's Dad?" "Is he even in the state?"
If your parent coaches any sport other than cross country, track or swimming, they are always recruiting in the offseason. Every day is a guessing game if they are home, or off recruiting, speaking at an event, at a meeting, or jet setting across the country. Some leave for the entire month of July; my sister and I like to play "Guess what state Dad's in today."
6. Waiting for a win to ask for something you want.
There is a definite relationship between wins and losses, and getting what you want. You learned at a very young age when to ask your parent for something, and when to stay quiet after a bad loss.
7. Suits or sweats, there is no in between.
You can always tell if your parent is off to meetings in the office, or to practice based on what they are wearing. Suits in the offseason and for meetings, sweats every other day.
8. Free swag.
You likely own countless shirts and sweatshirts leftover from your parents team, and either wear them or constantly or never, depending on each piece. Some pieces are downright ugly, others are your favorite thing. I for one own more swag from the school my dad coaches at then Dickinson apparel.
9. Knowing everything about that sport.
Growing up as a coach's kid, you have been obligated to go to most of their competitions. Even if you are the worst player ever at that sport, you know every single rule and game theory. I can't make a basket for my life, but I could talk for hours on the different types of offensive and defensive structures in basketball.
10. You get to travel to the coolest places, and never leave the gym.
My family has gone with my dad all across the country, and typically we never leave the gym. I've been to Florida with his team probably 10 times, and only gone to Disney on those trips twice. I did get to go to Italy with the team which was pretty fun, until I fell into a lake... but that's a story for another time.
11. You wouldn't want it any other way.
Being the child of a coach instills lessons and values that you couldn't get any other way. My dad has taught me how to follow my dreams, no matter what or where they are. Living in a small town where sports are at the centerfold have taught me how to have thick skin; people can be mean, and everyone thinks they can be a better coach. My dad taught me to believe in people, how to be a leader and a team player. He taught me that everyone has a integral role on a team, and how to put others before myself. I'm person I am today because of the values my father has given me, and the support my mother has shown. I wouldn't want my life to be anything but this crazy and hectic life as a coach's kid.
