As the days shorten and the sun takes its time rising, my 11-year-old son, Alex, feels the weight of summer’s end. The last day of day camp brought a wave of sadness as he knew school was just around the corner. Like many children, he eagerly counts down to the carefree days of summer—filled with play, no homework, and no strict bedtimes. The thought of waiting over 250 days until summer vacation returns is almost unbearable for him.
Just when I worried about his smile fading, the unmistakable sound of football theme music filled the air, and his face lit up. He claims that hearing those first few notes sends shivers down his spine. It’s the highlight of September encapsulated in six words: Are you ready for some football?
Yes, the fall introduces homework and tests, but it also brings the excitement of tackles and touchdowns. The swimsuits get stored away, replaced by jerseys. New games like Madden NFL 16 are ready for action at GameStop and other retailers. Five days of school become worthwhile with a Sunday full of games, plus Monday and Thursday night matchups, and college games on Saturdays.
Reflecting on My Childhood
Reflecting on my childhood, my dad was an avid football fan. Each week, he’d place bets with his friend, Mark, pouring over the sports section of the New York Daily News, tracking games and point spreads. Sundays were reserved for intense viewing, where he would cheer and sometimes even lose his cool alongside my two brothers. I never understood the obsession; it all seemed like a waste of time and rather brutal.
When I married, my husband, Tom, enjoyed football but didn’t share my dad’s fervor. He watched but didn’t sacrifice our Sundays for it unless it was a significant game. This dynamic continued even after our two daughters were born and then our son arrived.
Initially, we had a practical approach to parenting. With three kids, we split responsibilities on weekends. Tom took charge of the girls’ sports and parties on Saturdays, while Sundays became his time to stay home with the baby. I often found him lounging on the couch, remote in one hand, baby monitor in the other. As the baby grew into a toddler, he joined his dad on the couch, mainly to enjoy potato chips without my oversight.
Alex’s Football Journey
When Alex turned 7, he transitioned from Nickelodeon to ESPN for his morning fix. Like my dad, he started obsessively checking stats and scores. The digital age allowed him to consume sports like never before. He even convinced Tom to subscribe to NFL RedZone to catch every game.
In 2009, Alex developed a passion for the Jets during one of their rare playoff runs. Our friend, a lifelong Jets supporter, warned him that being a Jets fan often leads to disappointment. And how right he was! There have been teary Sunday nights and tough bus rides surrounded by Giants fans. However, at 11, he’s learned that fantasy leagues can cushion the blow, which is why he now manages three teams.
Connecting Through Football
With all this sports chatter, I’ve surprisingly picked up a lot about football. Recently, I spoke with my dad about my newfound interest, and he was baffled by how I became a fan after dismissing it as silly. I explained that while I may not be a sports enthusiast, I am a fan of my son. If waking up to check scores helps me connect with him (and figure out which jersey he’ll wear to school), I’m all in.
Watching ESPN together has also opened doors for important lessons. The realm of professional sports showcases inspiring stories of resilience and bravery. Nothing illustrates the importance of perseverance better than the Patriots’ incredible Super Bowl comeback. However, the world of football isn’t without its share of controversies—topics I’d rather Alex not be exposed to at such a young age. Still, my husband and I strive to use these moments to discuss sportsmanship, cheating, and ethical behavior. It’s wonderful how football has become a bridge between me and my son, especially as he approaches his teenage years.
Ready for Football Season
So, am I ready for football season? Absolutely! I’ve got the chips, salsa, and yes, a box of tissues at the ready!
In summary, as the school year kicks off, the excitement of football can help ease the transition for both kids and parents. From learning about sportsmanship to sharing cherished moments, the season brings families together. If you’re interested in more insights for your own family journey, check out this guide on treating infertility or explore home insemination for more details.