And So It Ends...

The 2009 season for the Ojai Eagles came to an end Saturday after a playoff loss to the Nipomo Cowboys. Josh missed the game because he was out with the flu all week. Here are some end of season reflections:

1. I know that a lot of people debate whether kids should play tackle football, but I am firmly on the side of letting them play. Here's why: (1) Learning proper technique at a young age protects them if they play when they are older; (2) I have seen Josh grow up right before my eyes as he has embraced the structure and discipline of football; (3) Kids today need a safe environment where they can be pushed to their limits and learn just how far they can go. Where else in our culture of comfort does this happen?

2. Josh is a hard worker. My greatest joy through the season came just watching him run sprints and do drills in practice. There are some other kids with more talent, but Josh gives all he's got. I'll take that any day.

So, the journey that started with conditioning in July is now over in November. Good job, Josh. I'm proud of you.