“Alexa, what’s the weather like today? Will I always feel overwhelmed by spring sports?”
“It’s a brisk 47 degrees with bright sunshine. Expect highs of 93 along with sporadic rain, occasional lightning, and winds that could rival a tornado. Be prepared for temperatures to plummet 50 degrees in just 20 minutes, turning rain into snow. Ice may create treacherous driving conditions, possibly leading to power outages. Forget your dread; it’s a perfect spring day for the 17 Little League games you’re set to attend.”
I know, it’s a bit eerie how a device can predict my busy schedule of baseball games. But honestly, it’s spot on with the forecast.
I grew up with sports; they were a significant part of my childhood and remain a source of joy and camaraderie as an adult. I cherish being part of a team, a love that stemmed from my early athletic experiences.
As a child, I simply showed up. I’m certain my mom didn’t prepare for game day or practices the way I do for my kids now. I recall shivering in the early track practices because I didn’t wear enough layers and slogging through muddy shoes during April baseball games. I survived those days, so why does spring sports feel so overwhelming now compared to my carefree youth of eating candy for dinner? Where did the joy go?
Perhaps it’s the impact of climate change on weather patterns, or maybe it’s because I was the only athlete in the family—now all three of my kids are involved in sports year-round. It’s easier when it was just me. Organized sports seem more structured than they used to be, or maybe I just go overboard trying to ensure my kids are ready.
When it comes to spring sports, I roll out with a full wagon of snacks, blankets, and an emergency kit. Don’t fret; I also carry a hefty load of anxiety, frustration, and a hint of anger.
Because, let’s be honest, if it’s not the unpredictable weather, it’s the amount of time we spend at the ballpark. Practices invariably kick off an hour before dinner—if not right at dinnertime—and last until just moments before my kids hit their breaking point. They’ll wave goodbye to the coach, high-five friends, and then immediately dissolve into a meltdown as soon as they’re in the car. Of course, they’re hungry. I spent an hour crafting sandwiches, slicing fruit and veggies, and packing fun “treats” like juice boxes, but they barely touch any of it since they’re full from the gum and three crackers a friend shared.
My kids hardly noticed the waterproof blanket I brought for them to sit on while ignoring the meal I prepared. They were too excited to race toward the park’s playground. I’ll remember to grab it next time—though let’s be real: the one time I forget it is when they’ll suddenly appreciate my efforts. I can’t handle any more emotional outbursts; they’re not just hungry, they’re also worn out.
We often return home late from games, and bedtimes get pushed back because the kids need time to decompress. They require another snack since their car snacks were merely appetizers. With homework to tackle and the need to unwind after two hours of running around, these late nights lead to morning crankiness and regret. Suddenly, they’re declaring their hatred for baseball, clothes, food, and school, while I beat myself up for thinking this sport was a good idea.
Then I remind them that it’s game day, and they can wear their jerseys to school if they choose. The mood shifts positively, but it’s still chaotic. Excitement returns, and I re-commit to preparing picnic dinners that likely won’t be eaten while we sit under partly cloudy, sunny skies that could turn to snow or rain at any moment.
Once they take the field, my little athletes look adorable in their uniforms, their confidence fluctuating, and it’s almost too much for my heart to handle. I, along with the other parents, breathe a sigh of relief and gush over their cuteness. We then grumble about the efforts it took to get from home to the field, yet we snap a million photos, knowing that as long as our kids are joyful, we are too.
I loved being part of a team and being an athlete, and I’m thrilled my kids are on this journey. Sports will expose them to diversity, teach them perseverance and cooperation, and encourage them to embrace both grace and dignity in wins and losses. For now, they’re mainly interested in the Double Bubble from the snack bar and socializing with friends, but I’m hopeful they’ll stick with a sport long enough to appreciate these invaluable life lessons.
Otherwise, this spring sports chaos is simply unbearable.
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Summary
Spring sports season is a whirlwind of excitement, chaos, and unpredictability. As a parent, managing the logistics, emotions, and unexpected challenges can be overwhelming. While the journey has its struggles, the joy of seeing our kids participate in sports makes it worthwhile. The lessons they learn will shape their character, even if the current focus is on candy and playtime.