Student of the Game

Last time I wrote about Ben, I lamented that he did not get to play in the final game of the season. My sadness. Ben's attitude that day was so spot on - sometimes life happens.

Last Saturday (I'm so bummed I couldn't be there), Ben's team had their annual awards dinner. It's tradition to hand awards to each "graduating team member" to honor their special contribution to the team. There were the traditional awards like most improved player. There were some funny awards, such as the "smiley" award, given to the kid who smiled all the time - even when he landed flat on his back, trampled by the opponent.

Then there was this award:

Coach said initially they thought about calling it the sponge award, a cute name, but not deserving of the player. He went on to explain how one player stood out from the others for his understanding of the game. One kid stood out from the others because every single thing he was taught, he learned and executed perfectly.

Rob (my wonderful husband) told me after the banquet that as Coach spoke, the kids on the team knew he was talking about Ben. He shared that the kids pointed and and whispered "that's Ben."

Coach concluded his remarks saying, "This young man will grow up to coach football one day." And then he called Ben to the front of the room to receive the "Student of the Game" award.

Sometimes this season, especially that last game, my heart broke for Ben that he didn't get much playing time, though only once - very early in the season - did it bother him. After that early season game, I encouraged him to learn all he can about football and offer what he can to the team, even if it's from the sidelines.

And that is exactly what he did.

Congratulations, Ben, on a great season, on and off the field. Thank you for showing us all how it's supposed to be done.