We have 60 players on our roster. There were at least 3 identifiable, pre-existing cliques that composed the initial group that came to summer workouts. The remaining boys were individuals making their entry into mainstream, organized sports. During those summer practices those spaces, the ones established to provide identity, were etched on the turf.
Halfway through the season, with a record of 5-1, only one space remains. It encircles the boys and creates a single, composite identity. A boundary either keeps something you're afraid of out, or it keeps something you value in. How you see the boundary will determine that.
Self-discovery is courageous, uncertain work for anyone, let alone adolescent boys. It helps with someone at your side. The lines previously drawn between them have been laid end-to-end to create the one that draws them together.
When you can admit to where you hide the act of being found begins.
When you discover that the depth of a person can't be measured through the associations they hold, you can evaluate the purpose of your own.
When you realize what's lost through the judgement of others you respect the differences between you.
Every time Coach Russo asks for examples of contributions, the responses exceed the time allotted to voicing them.
Boys who previously ignored each other are acknowledging one another. Boys who stand-out on the football field are recognizing the ones who stand-out in the classroom. Boys accustomed to the spotlight,
turn it on those just getting to know it.
The idea of what is of value is being examined.
And re-defined.
