Well, I guess we can safely say the game didn't end up how we would of liked! It is funny to me how people will say, "it is only a game" after a big loss. I know basketball is a game, but it is more than JUST a game to many of us. A rec league basketball game, a game of 4 square at recess, a friendly chess match or t-ball game, those I agree are "just a game." However, when you pour your heart out for 4 months, practice daily, spend time away from your family to scout and coach it becomes a little more. The game becomes a part you and your team a part of your family.
Growing up the daughter of a coach, becoming a coach and marrying a coach I feel like I have a little different perspective than some. I find that sitting in the stands watching my family coach or play I am a bundle of nerves. My stomach is upset and I have butterflies hours before tip-off. I feel uneasy and unsettled until the final buzzer sounds. This is funny because when I coach I get a little nervous, but never feel unsettled. I guess it is the lack of control I feel. As a coach's wife and kid it is hard sitting in the stands listening to those who berate, second-guess and are simply disrespectful to those you love. As a coach you learn quickly you will never make everyone happy and some will never be happy no matter what. Regardless, it doesn't make it easier.
We coach to win games and championships, but we also coach to develop young athletes and build relationships with them. The kids on our teams mean more to us than just being a point guard or a post. We try to teach them lessons that will last long after they are done playing basketball. Basketball is, "more than just a game" because of all of those things! Losing stinks and I hate it, I won't lie. As the sun comes up this morning I realize that because what we teach is more than just shooting and dribbling our "season" really isn't over, it is just beginning!
