The First Ten: Aptos 2012 CCS Highlights

Vs. Saratoga: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uo6CzgwWDpA

Vs. Monterey: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wYsNDo6aEoI

Vs. Valley Christian: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A85eMrhHrqI

Gagnman Dance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJsgeLi7Z-M

Observations

Sometimes one of the boys will tell me I inspire him. If that's true, I can't take credit. Whatever inspiration I offer is the result of observation.

It takes courage to be exposed during growth. You learn humility. It's not uncommon to learn our most valuable lessons during our most painful moments.

It is uncommon to choose to do it in front of a crowd.

Boys want to know their place among other boys as much as they want the opportunity to create it.

I observe the ones who do the actual work. I encourage the ones who step forward and say 'I'm ready'. That's it.

I consider it an enormous privilege to participate.

If I've 'inspired' it's because I've been inspired. I've learned more in my lifetime from males three decades younger than me than I ever have from a male decades older.

I love this game.

Boy to Man

My son Aaron was a freshman when Coach Blankenship arrived. Coach B rode him hard from the get go. Aaron didn't understand why. I did.

I challenged Aaron to do everything Coach B asked him to do, and never question it, for one year. I told him he didn't have to agree with him, or like him. To Aaron's credit he agreed. Coach Blankenship observed that Aaron had been resting on God given talent, and doing nothing to take responsibility for it.

When you've seen enough 'potential' flatline in front of you, it loses its wonder. When you've seen enough potential to alter the world give in to contentment, its value fades. Aaron had it, and was taking it for granted. Coach Blankenship challenged him take responsibility for its development.

At Aaron's senior award banquet Coach B broke into tears when he spoke of Aaron, and credited his selfless play for guiding them to the CCS finals. Aaron stood on the stage and told Coach B he'd been the most influential man in his life. Afterward, he took a seat next to me.

"So", I said, "You understand now?"

"I do, Dad", he said, "I understand completely".

Part of being a parent is recognizing what your child needs to learn, and if he'll be able to learn it from you. If he won't, you need to guide them in its direction.

Ethan is well into his journey.

Aidan has embarked on his.

If your coach is riding you there's a reason, and it's probably not what you think. I don't know a single coach with the objective of tearing you down. Sometimes, however, it's necessary to humble those who will lead.

The First Ten

Aptos 2012 CCS Highlights

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