(this was part of an email response to a parent after our inspiring playoff win against Liberty Charter)
I must say this. These are great events and great times for our kids. Leigh and I are enjoying UC Volleyball immensely. I am photographing, videoing and posting all this because I don’t want to forget any of it. I don’t think the kids can realize it yet, but the parents do: special times are fleeting. Every moment is special and you should never take anything for granted. You never know how long any good thing lasts. Most of the time they are replaced with other good things – but they’re all unique and each special.
COVID – out of the blue – pulled the rug out of a fun season two years ago. You never know when things will change. I was prepared – but still sad – about not seeing Dash play with Nate and Phillip – and Trevor, his wonderful Beach Partner – after the end of this week. I assumed we had at least a couple more matches together for playoffs.
I was shocked yesterday when Dash tested positive for COVID and he couldn't play those last few games with his friends. He couldn't even come to the gym to watch.
Only a couple of games, short, but I wasn’t ready. I took for granted there would be more. It was on The Schedule, dammit.
Every moment is precious.
Last night's great team win uplifted me: next year will be a good year.
We’ll do well, but I already miss Dash with Nate, Phillip and Trevor.
Special thanks to Coach Brooke and Coach Mark. I think they set the amazingly supportive tone for a really healthy culture for our volleyball programs. Thank you to Coach Aaron – Indoor looks like it’s in great hands and will continue to be a source of joy and confidence to our athletes. Thank you, Parents, for all the support you give to the Coaches and to the players and to each other.
Thank you, athletes. It’s a privilege watching you grow, work together, support each other and enjoy each other. These are special times that you may not fully appreciate for decades – but you will.
Embrace. Every. Moment.