The analogy of youth sports being a roller coaster ride is often used—and maybe even overused—but it holds true. The ups and downs that young athletes experience over the course of their sports journey mirror the twists and turns of life itself.
In our case, the highs and lows for our oldest daughter have been particularly extreme. From not having a spot on the local club team as a U9 player to navigating the challenges of high school years—like being asked to step down a level when her GA club joined the ECNL—there have been moments of uncertainty and change. Yet, resilience has been her constant companion. When she found a new ECNL club, she was asked to play up with the 2007 team because they needed more players on the roster—a challenge she embraced.
Another part of this roller coaster is navigating the recruiting process itself. One week, you’re riding high with interest from a college coach who seems genuinely excited about your athlete’s potential. There are emails, calls, maybe even a campus invite. Then, suddenly—silence. Weeks go by without a word. It’s easy to feel disheartened when the momentum shifts like that. But that’s part of the journey too. It teaches patience, perseverance, and the importance of staying focused even when things go quiet.
Sports teach invaluable life lessons: things will happen that may seem unfair or unexpected, but how you respond matters. Adjusting, adapting, and making the most of every opportunity—that’s the ride of life.
I’m reminded of the final scene in the movie Parenthood, where Steve Martin’s character is watching his child struggle during a school play. His anxiety builds, and the scene visually shifts into a roller coaster ride. At first, he looks unsettled by the ups and downs, but then something changes—he throws his hands up, leans into the ride, and starts to enjoy it.
The path to college sports follows a similar trajectory. It’s filled with unexpected turns, exhilarating climbs, and stomach-dropping moments. But when you embrace the journey, it can also be incredibly fun.
So, as sports parents, I say: put your hands up, yell with excitement, and savor the ride. Because when it’s all said and done, we’re probably going to miss it.
Ben Carcio - Co-Founder Sendcoach
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