My Mom's Love for Sports and the Power of Being a Fan

When I think back on my youth sports experience, my parents played a huge part in it. As far as I know, they did not miss a soccer game from the time I was five through club and into high school. They regularly drove four hours round trip to watch my college games too. They were (and still are) my biggest fans in life.

Looking back, I see that my mom played a crucial role in my love for sports. Not only did she encourage me to try as many things as possible, but she created an environment where playing sports was easy for me. She handled sign up forms, doctors appointments, scheduling, sports gear, uniform washing, snack and water prep, and everything in between. She was always there on the sideline cheering me on. I didn’t even realize how much she was pouring into my activities back then. Thinking about it now, I’m not sure I would have been able to play so many different sports if it hadn’t been for her.

In addition, her love for watching sports has shaped who I am. A lifelong Philadelphia sports fan, she made it clear to me at a young age that girls watch sports too. Because of her passion, this was something I never even questioned growing up. It's rare to be in my parents house and not see her with a game on the TV.

I remember clearly when the Philadelphia Phillies won the 2008 World Series. We were all crowded around the television in the family room watching the Phillies take on the Rays. Being only eight, I wasn’t totally paying attention to the count and outs in the top of the ninth inning. When Brad Lidge struck out the final batter to win it all, my mom yelled so loudly I nearly jumped out of my skin. That surprise quickly turned to excitement as I realized what had just happened. It’s a moment that I’ll always remember.

I’ve always admired her love for her favorite teams. She taught me how to be a loyal fan. I think being a fan is one of the most important things you can be: for your team, for your friends, and for your family. The ability to cheer on the accomplishments of others is a life skill that is often overlooked. This Mother's Day I am especially thankful for her for showing me how to do that.