Jax Leads Dad to First Ever Head Coach Win

There are certain games that stick with you — not because of the final score, but because of the way they’re played. The kind where effort shows up in every possession and leadership doesn’t need to be loud to be felt (and coming from me, that’s saying something). This one happened to be my first game stepping in as head coach, but what made it memorable had very little to do with me.

This weekend was one of those games for Jackson.

From the opening tip, he was locked in. Focused. Ready to do whatever the team needed… and as the game unfolded, it became clear that his impact wasn’t going to be measured just in points, but in stops, hustle plays, and moments that quietly changed the direction of the game.

Let’s start with defense — because that’s where this game was won long before the scoreboard caught up.

Jax, you took on their best shooter and shut him down. He managed just one shot all game because you were everywhere — hands up, feet moving, body in the right place every possession. You forced tough jumpers and never let him get comfortable. That kind of defense doesn’t always show up in the stat sheet, but it wins games. Your defense was locked in, disciplined, and relentless.

Then there was the hustle.

The ball felt like it had your name on it. You kept it alive over and over — offensive rebounds, assists, steals, tip-outs — just refusing to let possessions die. When we were down by six and momentum wasn’t ours, you were the spark.

No one in this league wants to see you defending them and for sure no one wants to drive the lane and see you standing in the key. You’re like a young Dennis Rodman (before he dyed his hair like an Easter egg). Those extra efforts don’t always go as stats in the box score, but they change everything. They kept us in the game and helped turn it around.

Slowly, possession by possession, we climbed back.

Eventually, we took the lead.
Eventually, we won.

And there you were, right in the middle of it — leading the way, doing the little things, helping us come back and keep our team in first place.

Jackson, this was your game.
And it’s one I’ll never forget.

PS: I plan on retiring with an undefeated head coaching record!

A New View From the Hallway: 2025- A Year in Review

By the end of 2025, I realized I had spent most of the year trying to keep pace — not just with schedules or seasons, but with the quiet, steady way Jackson and Oliver were growing right in front of me. This wasn’t a year defined by one headline moment. It was a year defined by accumulation — small changes stacking up until suddenly, unmistakably, things felt different.

Both boys took real steps forward this year, though in very different ways. Oliver’s year was full of momentum. He played up in sports, took on bigger competition, and carried himself with a confidence that felt new — not loud or cocky, but earned. There were moments when the game seemed to slow down for him, when he trusted his instincts and went for it. Watching him compete against older kids and belong on the field with them was one of those parenting moments where pride and disbelief exist at the same time. Just as meaningful, though, were the moments when things didn’t go his way — the tough losses, the playoff ending, the frustration — and seeing him learn how to process that, reset, and come back ready to work.

Jackson’s growth in 2025 was quieter, but no less significant. He found his place — not by forcing it, but by steadily earning it. I watched him grow more confident in himself, more comfortable stepping in when needed, contributing in ways that mattered, that he earned himself by putting in the work and getting results in big moments. There were moments this year where he surprised me — not with flash, but with consistency, awareness, and leadership that showed up when it counted. He became more sure of who he is, and less concerned with proving it to anyone but himself.

Sports were a big part of the backdrop this year, but they were never really the point. They were just the setting where so many lessons played out — about effort, resilience, teamwork, and handling disappointment with maturity. I watched both boys learn how to lose, how to support teammates, and how to show up the next day regardless of the outcome. Those were the moments that stuck far longer than any score.

Jackson has always stood out. Known as the “mayor of his school,” and being asked to coach the younger football team (earning his own coaching whistle), Jax had already cemented a place among the wise beyond his years crowd.

2025 gave Oliver one of the more unexpected experiences of 2025… seeing people outside our family take notice of him — not just for his ability, but for his heart and effort. this year seeing strangers rally around Oliver was humbling and emotional in a way I didn’t anticipate. It forced me to pause and see him not just as my little boy, but as someone capable of inspiring people simply by being himself. At the same time, it reminded me how lucky Jackson and Oliver are to have each other — one pushing, one steadying, both learning what it means to grow side by side.

And then there were the moments that had nothing to do with sports at all. Near the end of the year, we took down the bunk beds the boys had shared for years and gave them separate rooms. It felt like a practical decision — until it didn’t. That first night, standing in the hallway with two closed doors instead of one shared space, landed heavier than I expected. It marked the end of late-night conversations, shared laughter, and the comfort of knowing they were just a few feet apart. Jackson was ready. Oliver was ready. I wasn’t sure I was — but that’s usually how these transitions go.

Looking back, 2025 wasn’t about milestones you circle on a calendar. It was about watching independence take shape in real time. It was about realizing that the things I used to focus on — wins, stats, outcomes — mattered less than character, effort, and growth. It was about seeing Jackson become more grounded in himself, and Oliver begin to test just how far his drive could take him.

As the year closed, I felt deeply grateful. Not because everything went perfectly — it didn’t — but because I was present enough to notice the changes while they were happening even if watching those changes happened while the boys quietly closed the doors to their own rooms for the first time in many years. The practices, the car rides, the quiet talks, the proud moments, and even the silence after lights out — that was 2025.

We’re heading into a new year now, and I know the pace won’t slow down. But this year reminded me that growth doesn’t need to be rushed or measured to matter. Sometimes it just needs to be noticed, because realizing they are now forging their own path and leading their own journey is not just hard to handle… it’s exactly what you’re been raising them to do.

Sometimes the view from the hallway comes with the best seats in the house — if only you don’t mind a little distance from the action.

Two Rooms, One Very Quiet Hallway

Five years ago, my wife and I carried bunk bed pieces down the hallway and into Jackson’s room, assembling what felt like the physical symbol of brotherhood. Two small boys. One room. One nightly routine. One parent wedged awkwardly between a wall and a ladder reading just one more book.

That first night they slept together in their bunks felt monumental. I even wrote about it at the time because that’s what dads like me do when they realize a moment matters—try to freeze it in words before it slips away.

Fast forward to now.

For the past couple of months, both boys have been asking to “set up their own rooms.” Not demanding. Not dramatic. Just casually, the way kids do when they’ve already moved on emotionally and are waiting for you to catch up.

So today we did it.

We rebuilt the bunks in Oliver’s room. Jackson’s room got a solo bed—no ladder, no top bunk negotiations, no whispered conversations that definitely weren’t happening five minutes after lights out.

Tonight is the first night they’re sleeping separately.

(Unless you count the occasional 3 a.m. migration into mom and dad’s room or a friend’s sleepover—but let’s not ruin the narrative.)

I knew this day would come. I just didn’t realize how much I’d miss the old routine until it was gone.

There was something special about bedtime in that shared room. Reading a book while one boy asked questions and the other slowly drifted off. Turning the lights down and listening to them talk to each other—about nothing and everything—until their voices faded into sleep. Sitting there longer than necessary because once they were asleep, the day officially ended.

Now there are two rooms. Two goodnight hugs. Two light switches. And somehow… less noise.

I’m proud of them. Truly. This is growth. Independence. Confidence. All the things we’re supposed to want for our kids.

But tonight, standing in the hallway after tucking them in, I felt it—that quiet reminder that childhood doesn’t ask permission before it changes. One day you’re climbing down from a top bunk, and the next you’re realizing you’ve done it for the last time.

I hope they always remember what it felt like to share a room. To fall asleep knowing their brother was right there. To learn—early—that even when life eventually gives you your own space, you don’t have to do everything alone.

Because rooms change. Beds move. Eras quietly end.

But brothers?
That’s the part I hope never does.

PS: The fight for where Wednesday sleeps from now on has begun. Chalk up a night one win to big brother.

Lessons Learned From Sports and Sons

The scoreboard said we lost our playoff game today… but I walked off that field proud of my son and my team.

This season, my son played up with the fourth graders even though he’s only in third grade. From day one, he never used that as an excuse. He just showed up… every single time. Not one missed practice. Not one late arrival. Every drill, every rep, every huddle… he gave his full effort.

He earned his spot as a starter on offense and defense. He returned kicks and he did everything we asked and more, without ever complaining. He worked hard, listened, and played with heart every single game. That’s not something you can coach… that’s just who he is.

As his coach, I saw the growth. As his dad, I saw the love for the game and for his teammates in his eyes everytime I looked at him.

The quiet confidence that comes from knowing you’ve earned it, that is not part of his game yet… so I’ll say it for him…

He belonged here this year… and he earned every second of it. When the season ended, even in that tough loss, I realized something: stats and scores don’t define a player — character does

“Have a Lot of fun”

Dear Jackson and Oliver,

Tonight the house feels a little different. Your new backpacks are lined up by the door, pencils are sharpened, and I keep having to remind mom that bedtimes actually matter tonight. Tomorrow you both walk into a brand-new school year… Jackson into sixth grade, Oliver into third… and I couldn’t let this moment pass without reminding you of a few things.

First, I love you. More than you’ll ever know, more than any words can capture. I am proud of the young boys you’re becoming… not just because of grades, or sports, or accomplishments, but because of the kind hearts you both carry.

School isn’t just about math problems or reading levels. It’s about learning how to be the kind of people the world needs: leaders who listen, friends who show up, people who stand tall when it isn’t easy. That’s what leadership really is… it’s courage. It’s raising your hand not just to answer a question, but to include the kid sitting alone. It’s choosing gratitude when things don’t go perfectly. It’s forgiving quickly so you don’t carry heavy stuff in your heart. And it’s showing compassion not just with words, but with action.

Jackson… you’re stepping into the big kid role at your school now. Remember: being a leader doesn’t always mean being the loudest voice in the room. Sometimes it means being the one who listens the most. Trust yourself. You’re ready.

Oliver… you’ve still got that spark that makes every room brighter the second you walk in. Third grade is a chance to learn, to play, to keep asking big questions. Don’t ever lose that joy. People will follow your lead because you remind them how fun life can be.

And both of you… never forget one of the best pieces of advice I’ve ever learned… “have a lot of fun” in everything you do. Yes, work hard, pay attention, and respect your teachers, but don’t forget to laugh, to play, to find the joy in every single day.

So tomorrow, when you walk into those classrooms, walk in with love, with courage, with gratitude. Be leaders. Be listeners. And above all, be kind.

Mom and I couldn’t be prouder to be yours.

I love you forever,
Dad

It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday

There’s a few places in our house that’s looking a little too quiet these days.

For years, those brightly colored trucks, puzzles, oversized stuffiees with threadbare noses—they were everywhere. They were the soundtrack of our days: the zoom of a car hitting the wall, the clack-clack of giant Lego bricks scattered across the living room, and the squeak of a well-loved toy undergoing yet another wrestling match.

But then our boys—now 11 and 8—grew. Not in leaps or bounds, but in these gentle pushes: deeper conversations, strategic video-game moves, jokes caught in mid-air that I have to chase to understand. Between folding laundry and coaching football, I noticed those baby toys starting to pile up.

Giving them away felt… like giving up a part of our story.

It feels silly, doesn’t it? The sight of that plastic race track makes me smile and then pause: wasn’t that the one Oliver made us watch him race while we were trying to watch a movie? Then I see the Radio Flier that Jax and Ollie used to race everywhere— I’m hit with memory after memory of small hands clutching these toys as if they were truly the most important things in the world.

Of course they’re not too old for toys—not really. Kids don’t come with an expiration date on imagination. But those toys, they were for the tiny hands that are throwing fastballs on the baseball field. Those were the baby-safe blocks now replaced by dialogue about science projects and football playbooks.

Letting those toys go doesn’t feel practical—it feels profoundly emotional. It feels like a goodbye, even though I know what’s coming after this is so much bigger, better, and more wonderful.

I’m reminded that the things that mattered most weren’t the toys themselves, but those moments: the giggles as the Mighty Pups climbed the Paw Patrol Towers, the walks up the street in a push cart where Oliver stuffed acorns, rocks and sidewalk chalk, the bubble lawnmower Jax used before he learned to ride my tractor and the way those stuffed animals made a busy home feel warm, cozy, alive.

So yes—I’ll sort those toys, bag them up, drop them off, and maybe even help someone else’s kids play with them… but inside, I’ll carry every memory. Because growing up does mean saying goodbye to some things. But it doesn’t mean forgetting what made them magical in the first place.

Here’s to the next chapter—and maybe, someday, rediscovering that same magic in the toys that are just right for now.

Here’s to hoping these toys will give another family the same type of memories they helped us made all these years!

Youth Athlete of the Year

Oliver’s coaches nominated him for athlete of the year:

Oliver plays with heart bigger than any trophy. He cares more about teammates than himself, reminding us why we fell in love with sports.

What do they love most about playing their sport(s)?

What inspires him most isn’t wins or stats—it’s the love he has for the game and the people in it. He’s the first at practice, the last to leave, and hugs every coach and teammate like family. Oliver was asked by coaches to play up with much older athletes for tackle football and is one of the youngest on the state travel baseball team— but it’s his heart, not his age or talent, that makes him unforgettable.

Who inspires them—on or off the field—and why?

I asked Oliver this question specifically: His response, “I love playing catch with you dad. You always tell us about playing catch with Pop (my grandfather). Playing catch with you makes me feel like I get to play catch with your Pop even though I never got to meet him. I love when you tell me about Rickey Henderson & Ken Griffey, Jr. Thanks for telling me about Pop, I love him for making us both love baseball!”

What’s one moment in their athletic journey that makes you proudest?

This basketball season, with time running out, Ollie had a clear opportunity to score again. As he got to the hoop, he saw a teammate who hadn’t scored all season. Without hesitating, he passed the ball so his teammate could score at the buzzer. After, I asked him about it, he said, ‘We win as a team and I love helping everyone.’ That selfless act, prioritizing team & uplifting a teammate, shows the kind of athlete and person he’s becoming. To me his leadership and character makes me most proud.

Ollie would love your vote… it’s super easy just click here: https://athleteoftheyear.org/2025/oliver-b446

UPDATES:

8.29.25: OK… TOP 5!?????… and currently he’s in second place! Maybe, just maybe this is a thing? The best part though is knowing that the votes that Oliver is getting are in turn supporting cancer research.

8.21.25: Ollie made it into the TOP TEN! Thank you to everyone who has supported Ollie on his athletic journey and through this process. He loves making everyone proud and Steph and I couldn’t be prouder!!!

8.14.25: Another great accomplishment. Oliver is now made it through to the TOP 15 of his group!!!

8.7.25: So incredibly proud to announce Oliver has made it through to the TOP 20 in his group!!!

First Reconciliation

Happy First Reconciliation to our little man .

What does an eight year old ask forgiveness for? I can’t imagine what it is like for a kid in 2025 to have a first reconciliation. Do they say, “Sorry I was on my iPad more than I was supposed to?” “I shouldn’t have been on my Chromebook during social studies class last week?” “I let the dog eat the broccoli and cucumbers I was supposed to have with dinner.”????

I’m really not sure what I thought was going to happen when Oliver sat with the priest to confess his sins. Oliver is a vault. He is second child quiet, so mom and I had no idea what to expect. Maybe Oliver was going to need to bring the priest a cup of coffee in the room… because there was a good chance he was going to be in there a while.

I mean what would happen if Oliver walked in and the lights went out?!??

All joking aside, you might be wondering what this eight year old asked for forgiveness for. For Oliver it was for, “Kicking his brother.” I asked him if he has a specific kick he was referencing, or if he is just gave the priest a tally of how many karate kicks have been dished out.

I guess that’s between him and Jesus now. 🙏🏼

Now Batting… #11… Oliver

The journey from Town TBall to where we are now has been one of the most interesting, complex and exhausting experiences of my life. Coming from someone who played sports at an extremely high level, I cannot and could not ever have predicted how insanely fast things can happen when sports (especially youth sports) are concerned. 

I’d love to spend the time in this blog describing what got us to this point, but Oliver is the real reason we are here today!  

There is no doubt that Oliver is athletic.  Anyone who comes into contact with him can see it. Coaches comment on it, players notice it, and as sports analysts would say, “tape don’t lie.” But then again, he just turned eight… everyone at eight looks good playing their sport and let’s be very clear- every parent thinks their kid is the next Bryce Harper, LeBron James (🤮) or Patrick Mahomes… but, no one can do what those guys do.  The chances of being a D1 college athlete let alone a professional athlete are less than 1%. 

With that being said, Steph and I have been steadfast in just supporting the growth of our boys in terms of their love of the game, their effort and determination in how they approach anything they take on (sports included). If they want to try something, then they take it on with determination and commitment. Then again honesty, how do you teach that to an eight year old… I guess modeling and finding the right people that can model that for them is the right path.  

That brought us to the CTMETS Baseball Academy. What sets The CTMets academy apart is their commitment to developing well-rounded individuals. They understand that baseball is more than just a game; it’s a vehicle for teaching valuable life skills. This was not something we were looking for. But as the process played out… we chose theCTMETS… after they chose us. 

We showed up for an evaluation after being convinced by a friend to check them out. We were looking for a workout program, maybe 1:1 coaching once a week or so. We had no expectations and to be honest we were over the travel team nonsense. This was going to be something to get us through the winter and get the boys ready for rec baseball in the spring. 

Oliver (and Jax) went and worked out with three former professional Major League Baseball players. Oliver did his thing, he dove for balls, made throws from his knees. He hit the ball and afterwards Coach Jose used the phrase… “Oliver is Elite.”  (even Jax was crushing baseballs in the cage)

Coach sat Steph and I down for almost an hour.  The first thing he asked was if we would consider allowing Oliver to play for the 9u CTMETS, who are a statewide travel team consisting of some of the best young baseball players across CT.  This is a huge opportunity for Oliver. Not only is this team one of the best travel teams in the state, but at seven years old at the time Oliver was the youngest player ever to make the team. It’s an incredible honor, and we’re so proud of him.

Hearing Coach Jose describe how he was trying to get Oliver to show him how he could “backhand a ball from the shortstop position,” but Oliver was so fast to the ball he, “kept squaring it up and getting in front of it to field it in a perfect position to be ready to throw,” was amazing. He laughed when he said he, “can’t get some of his 17u infielders to do that.”  He told us he needs a player like Oliver (who he recognized was very young at seven for this team), but explained that he wants to build his academy and team from an early age and most importantly explained that Oliver was, “ready now.”

He explained to us his philosophy of coaching baseball… but more importantly… coaching well rounded children… if that didn’t sell us… when he said he saw something in Jax, besides baseball talent, he told us he saw “a leader and a big brother who cheered for his little brother everytime he made a great play” and that he recognized something in him too. He told us he wanted Jax to be part of his team… not to play in games yet, but to be there to help the younger players. To be there to support his brother who is one of the youngest kids on the team, but also to help build Jax’ baseball skills (coach Jose loves big first basemen!!!)

That was it. We needed them like they needed us. We were so out on the travel experience, until that night we met Coach Jose and his staff. Until they saw Oliver and Jax as people first and players second (hearing your seven year old is elite doesn’t hurt either)!

Congratulations, Oliver. Good luck! Do us proud, but more importantly, do you proud!  Now to the important question, can I have your autograph?

G2/3 Flag Football (Coach and Player)

I have enjoyed coaching both my boys throughout all sports during their athletic journey, but there is something special about coaching football. Ollie and I seem to do very well together as player and coach and this is now our third year in a row together in flag. Our town’s flag team has developed into a HUGE success and I have very much enjoyed helping a good friend grow the program through clinics, travel games and this year’s town tournaments.

Oliver has something very special when it comes to football; you can learn the plays and develop with good practice habits and with experiences comes better understanding, but the vision he possesses on the field is very advanced for his age and time playing. (Yes I know he’s seven and yes I know it’s just flag football, but it’s there and it’s very noticeable).

Throughout this blog you’ll read about “The Boop”. For referebcw when he was younger he couldn’t say “juke” (a move by a player running the ball where the runner cuts back hard and fast and makes the defender miss while then quickly cuts back up the field). Oliver, who couldn’t pronounce juke, would mistakenly call the move a “Boop” and so the “Ollie Boop” was born! Now if we can just harness ALL that OTHER energy he might just run through a brick wall!

Season Running Summary:

W: Black 6 – Green 14 (1-0)

What a way to start the G2/3 season! The “Ollie Boop” was back in action! A win and a score for Ollie! Guilford Green was awesome today! Love coaching this little animal!

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W: White 0 – Green 18 (2-0)

Another W For team GREEN. The boys pitched a shutout 18-0! Great group of kids! Oliver had the BOOP working today and almost took one to the house!

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W: Grey 12 – Green 24 (3-0)

The Packers dominated at Lambeau Field and Team Green dominated back in Guilford even without The Boop . The Packers moved to 1-1 and G-Green moved to 3-0!

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W: Black 6 – Green 12 (4-0)

Today was a very, very close game that was highlighted by tremendous defense and a team effort. We played almost the entire team at quarterback, passed the ball for big gains and pulled flags like our lives depended on it.

Oliver followed his blockers down the field and looked good as a receiver too. We look very good right now, highlighted by a bunch of boys who really like playing football and more importantly we have really grown into a team. I love watching them cheer for each other and celebrate each success together!

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W: Green – White (5-0)

“The Whistle Game”

A hard fought win for team Green today against a VERY good team White. Both teams played great defense, but when it came down to it, our defensive line (Ollie, Connor and Jakey) was just reeking havoc in the backfield making it almost impossible for team White to even get plays off! A few backfield tackles for Ollie highlighted by a Barry Sanders like run for a massive first down late in the second half iced the game for us and secured our fifth win in a row!

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L: Grey 24 – Green 13 (5-1)

The Wishbone Offense

Tough loss for Team Green today, but when you fall down, it’s about how fast you can get back up. Oliver had a boop for the ages… and threw a huge block to get his BFF in the end-zone, but in the end it’s about running the marathon, not a sprint and these boys have what it takes to bounce back.

We’ve seen them be the front runners for over a month… now everyone is going to have to deal with a team with a chip on its shoulder! (PS it’s also flag football, so they just had ice cream after the game and everyone was fine).

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W: Green 18 – White 6 (7-1)

I don’t care what the score is, Team White is a juggernaut. And other than a handful of big plays, they shut down our offense all game. You would think green and white would be a shootout… But not today. Today was two defenses battling back and forth that brought back memories of Reggie, White and Lawrence Taylor!!!

Oliver broke lose on the second play of the game for a massive run that set up the first touch down of the game and again later in the second half took us from our own goal line on a third and incredibly long to a first down on our opponents goal line, leading to another score. If it wasn’t for a phantom flag that fluttered off his waste after Booping ankles all over the field, he would have scored a touchdown late in the last few minutes to further put the game away.

Let’s go Green! Today’s win locked up the NUMBER ONE SEED in the playoffs!!!

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W: Green 18 – Gray 6 (8-1)

Another big game for Ollie and Team Green! Avenging our only loss only the season! 8-1 and on to the playoffs!!!

Coach Joe needed to head to another venue for some scouting for our playoff matchups (just kidding he had to go to his niece’s confirmation). I took on head coaching duties and did him proud. We played hard and kept Gray scoreless until the last minute of the game. Ollie looked good again running the ball and used his cut back skills to boop his way to the down the field!

On to the playoffs next week!

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PLAYOFFS: Round One

W: Green – Black (9-1)

Game One of the Playoffs was against a VERY, VERY GOOD BLACK TEAM! While we beat them them each time in the regular season they had a very well coached team who developed tremendously through the season (that is exactly the purpose of this program)! We fought hard and came away with a win. Everyone on the team contributed in this game and Oliver had two HUGE runs to get us first downs, one on fourth down and another on third and a million yards! His teammates stepped up for him and blocked hard!

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PLAYOFFS: CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

W: Green 18 – White 13 (10-1)

The game of the year, heck the game of the century took place in the Championship Game… as it should! The two teams with the best record head to head for all the marbles, the Lombardi DeMayo Trophy, the Championship!

Team White simply outclassed and outplayed us in the first half and at one point we were down 13-0. Oliver and his team did everything they could to keep the game from getting away from us. They played great defense and only allowed two scores on two broken plays (I will take the blame for the second touchdown, sending our corner on an all out blitz allowing their QB to slip outside for a long score).

Nick, Matt and Jackson fire up their little brothers at half time. Some say their speech saved our season!

Heads were hanging at half time as the team had only trailed in one game all year. Enter the G5 Tackle Team Older Brothers. They gave a rousing “Any Given Sunday” speech and inspired Team Green to come out like a freight train! The defensive line stayed stout and did not give up a point in the second quarter (more impressively, Oliver did not jump offsides once!) Oliver gobbled up flags in the back field and continued to force Team White into punts. A newly installed Wishbone Motion Fullback Dive Right on the goal line to “The Pepperbush Beast” C.DeMayo put us up one point.

With less than two minutes remaining up by one point and on a fourth and a million yards to go, Coach DeMayo called on The Boop. It was now or never, it was like calling in Mariano Rivera for a six out save in the eight inning, like bringing in Reggie Miller for a game winner against the Knicks with Spike Lee starting him down. We needed a first down to put the game away and we needed The Boop… when you need The Boop… you get The Boop! Oliver took the hand off from the backfield broke a pair of ankles and outran four defenders to take the ball almost to the house. A first down and four fresh downs to put the game away!

After a QB Keeper put us up 5, Team White came storming back with less than a minute to go to cross mid field, two sacks by Oliver on consecutive plays put them in a desperate situation, but with one last play remaining, Team White took a hand off towards the left corner of the goal line, but it was Team Green’s defense standing on the field at the 1/2 yard line holding a RED FLAG high above their head with 0:00 remaining on the clock. In the voice of John Sterling, “Ball Game Over, Championship Game Over… TEAM GREEN WINS… TEEEEEEEAMMMMMMMMMMMMM GREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEENNNNN WINS!”

What a season, what a team, what a program. I hated watching the boys on Team White lose, but it is with great sadness and desire to come back stronger, that creates players who are inspired to come back for more. It wasn’t just the winning and losing, it was the team work, the friendships, the skill development AND the winning and losing. That’s how you build a program… Watch out surrounding towns, because the G2/3 kids moving up to tackle next year are going to be more than ready for you!

Champions and Best Friends!!!