There are four seasons in a year — summer, fall, winter and spring. But in my house, there are five. #5 is football season and it overlaps most of the other seasons as well. My dad has been a football coach for more than twenty years. Most call him coach, while I just call him dad. Through all the games, moves and hours spent apart from my dad (due to a level of dedication that most people don't realize comes with this profession), he has taught me to be a strong, ambitious and independent person. He’s taught me all classic dad life lessons like how that boy was so not worth my time and how I should turn down the music when I drive, but most importantly, he’s shown me that I should set high goals for myself because with hard work, I can achieve them.
Here are a few other things my dad/coach has taught me:
1. Family is everything.
Friends may come and go, but family is forever — especially when you move all around the country and the only people you have are your family. My dad has taught me to appreciate the amazing family that I have because he reminds me that no matter where this game takes us, they will always be there.
2. Eat really good food.
When you’re not eating mom's practically gourmet food, eat other delicious food. Clearly my family loves pizza and wings, but the Italian way is to go big or go home. My dad has taught me to try different restaurants and spend a little extra to get a good meal, so I’ve learned to always order an appetizer and possibly dessert.
3. Be Aware.
I think my dad's coaching side comes out on this one. He has taught me to be a very aware and perceptive person in all aspects of my life. Like a defensive back, I've learned to be quick on my feet and to read the field, so I'm always ready for whatever comes my way.
4. No one will be good enough.
Good luck, boys. Good freakin' luck.
5. But when you do find someone, make sure they're like mom.
My dad's biggest supporter is my mom. She's moved all over and away from her family to support my dad's career while also raising my brothers and me. He's taught me to find someone that great. Someone who will support me in everything I do and loves me through tough times.
6. Phone, wallet, keys; everything else is replaceable.
Enough said.
7. Dad knows best.
“I know everything, I’ve done everything, so you won’t get away with it.” Although he probably hasn't done everything, he has done a lot, so thanks for being tough on me when it came to my mistakes. I'm also glad I have someone to come to with any problem because like you said, you do know best.
8. The Game
Football has not only been a game but a way of life for as long as I can remember. Thank you for making me love this game as much as you do and for giving me the knowledge to challenge guys when they want to talk smack. Our lives have been filled with change due to this game, but I honestly wouldn't have it any other way, because it has opened my eyes to all different types of people and places, so thank you.
Happy Father’s Day Dad, love you as much as you (and most of America) love beating the Pats.
