Over the past couple of years, this week has been one of the most nerve racking of all. Figuring out tryout schedules, worrying about where Maddie would end up, wondering where the money was going to come from...but not this year, because Maddie has decided not to play Club. I've held off updating the blog in the hope that she would change her mind, but I guess the decision is final. I've invited her to post about what went into this decision and maybe some day she will. My armchair opinion is that once she decided she wanted to go to only to Western, and once she realized that playing college volleyball means no summers and full time dedication to the sport, she lost her enthusiasm. She wants to do other things, and I support her and love her and know she will continue to thrive. And she'll be back playing for the Kangs in 2012 and be involved with the middle school teams as well.
That being said, I'm really sad that it's over. Volleyball has been so good for her, has contributed so much to her growth as a young lady, that I wonder what can replace it. For me....well, for me it's been some of the most fun I've had as a dad. To see your daughter compete and succeed is like nothing else. I've enjoyed writing this blog and meeting so many great people. I've enjoyed watching dozens of practices and hundreds of games at high schools and facilities I never even knew existed. I LOVED getting up at 6 am to drive to Olympia. I LOVED just hanging out watching other teams during those 2 hour breaks between matches. Heck, I even loved going to Highline CC! Maddie and me...we're tight; we'll be OK forever, but volleyball has been a special bond and I'm really going to miss it.
I don't know what happens to the blog. Of course, I will chronicle next season's LWHS campaign and I'll keep everyone up to date on what is going on with Maddie. I'll always be a club volleyball dad. Thanks to everyone who reads this and who has reached out over the last few years...Stacy and Ann, you guys have helped so much.
If you stumble across this in a Google search for Club Volleyball info and make it to this post, I just want to say that I hope your daughter goes for it! Club is so awesome. They will benefit SO much. Just hold on for the ride. Love you, #11. You are one hell of a setter and one hell of a daughter. 5x5, babe.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
It has been a pleasure reading about Maddie's success in both club and high school volleyball.
ReplyDeleteWe were in your exact position two years ago when our son chose to not play college baseball anymore and we will cross that bridge next year at this time when our daughter finishes her high school volleyball season at MI.
It's never easy when it ends, and it sneaks up on you very fast. Maddie is fortunate to have someone like you that shared her interest and enthusiasm.
I have enjoyed reading your candid comments and your colorful commentary....and I agreed with almost everything you had to say.
Again, thanks for the entertainment you provided and best of luck to you and Maddie. We'll keep track of her and the Lake Washington HS team next season.
Greg Wilson (Carly's dad)