A Father’s Day Tribute to the Dads Who Show Up—Even When They’re Not Yours

Not every child has a dad in the stands.

Some are missing because of divorce or distance. Others because of death. Some kids never even knew fathers. And on Father’s Day—amid the homemade cards and social media tributes—it’s easy to forget those kids. But in youth sports, they’re everywhere. Quietly packing their bags after the game. Glancing toward the sideline and not seeing anyone. Watching their teammates run into their dad’s arms, while they walk out alone.

This is for them.

And for the men who see them.

Because sometimes, it takes a team of dads.

To the Coaches Who Become Father Figures

You may not realize it, but the way you show up matters. The way you correct, encourage and care becomes part of that child’s inner voice. Your fist bump might be the only one they get all day. Your sideline advice might echo louder than any words at home.

When you say, “I’m proud of you.”

When you stay a few minutes after practice.

When you teach them more than just how to win.

You become part of their foundation. Not as a replacement, but as a reminder that men can be kind, steady and safe. That someone can expect a lot from you and still be in your corner when you fall short.

To the Other Dads on the Team

You might not think your presence matters to anyone beyond your own kid. But it does.

That pat on the back to a teammate after a tough loss.

That high five to the quiet kid who played their heart out.

That ride home when their mom had to work late.

Those are the moments that stay with them.

You don’t have to make it a grand gesture. You just have to notice. Include. Encourage. Share a little of what you naturally give your own child with one who might not have it. Because sometimes the difference between feeling alone and feeling seen is just one dad who makes room for someone else’s kid.

To the Dads Who Stepped In

Stepdads. Granddads. Uncles. Family friends. Mentors.

You may not have been there from the start, but you chose to be there. And that matters more than most people will ever understand. You filled out the emergency contact forms. You showed up in the rain. You held the tears. You paid for the cleats. You taught them to compete with honor and to lose with grace.

This day is yours too.

You stepped up. You stayed. You made someone else’s world feel whole.

To the Kids Without a Dad in the Stands

We see you.

You are not less than. You are not forgotten.

And you are not alone.

There are men out there—coaches, other dads, mentors—who will show up in small, steady ways. Who will teach you, cheer for you and challenge you. Who will help you become the kind of person you’re meant to be.

Because Father’s Day isn’t just about biology. It’s about presence. Protection. Belief. And love.

Asia Mape is a for-time Emmy Award-winning journalist, Sports Television Producer, former Division I athlete and the founder of I Love To Watch You Play, a platform dedicated to helping families navigate the youth sports journey with insight, honesty and heart. She’s worked for leading sports networks including Fox Sports, ESPN, TNT, NFL Network and NBC Sports, covering five Olympics, multiple NBA playoffs, and two Super Bowls. Now a mom to three daughters who’ve all played competitive sports, Asia blends her professional storytelling background and personal experience to support parents and spark meaningful change in youth sports.