Farewell Winter Sport

If you listened carefully across the country this weekend, there were a number of sighs – of relief, of a job well done, of regret. Saturday winter sport is drawing to a close, with many codes finishing up yesterday.

So, farewell winter sport – you have served us well for another year;

Farewell muddy boots, wet shoes, half-time oranges, dribbly mouth guards, head gear, knee braces, ripped shorts, grazed knees, black eyes, sore muscles and early mornings.

Farewell to searching for obscure parks, farewell to Milo in flasks, post-match pies, coffee carts in chilly carparks.

Farewell to shining eyes, pink cheeks, huge grins and loud cheers. Farewell to moments of brilliance and glum defeat.

Farewell to filthy car interiors, crowded full of players and supporters, and the sound of whistles.

Saturday sport in the winter is a right of passage for most Kiwi kids. It teaches so much more than the game the kids choose to play – it creates lifelong friendships and passion – it teaches patience, humility, empathy, tenacity and character.

The coaches of children’s sport are a particular bunch of people, and they should be celebrated as champions. So many mornings, they put our children first; they inspire them, challenge them, push them and help them develop. They are positive, generous with praise, time and patience, and do it mostly out of love.

To all the supporters who stand on the sideline, take a bow – kids really care to have people who love them on the sideline, and it’s not always easy to get there.

And to the kids – you’re amazing. It takes guts to do what you do – dream big, little people – every time you get out there, you improve. Every time you get up, wipe off your tears and carry on, you are learning great life skills. You back up your team mates, and that’s crucial. You learn to be gracious in both victory and defeat. You are becoming a more well rounded person every season. Stick at it, even when it’s cold, uncomfortable, scary and hard.

Every athlete we cheer for on tv or in a stadium started where you have. They all did the hard yards. Whether you aspire to be just like them, or just have a great time with your mates, you’re still winning.

So, be proud of your season. Thank your parents, grandparents and friends who drove you to practice, who patched you up, who cheered for you, your awesome coaches and your supportive team mates.

Winter sport may be over for another year, but there’s always next year to look for. Sure, there’s a whole new raft of sports to enjoy in the summer, but there’s something special about the winter sports. Hang up your boots, wash your jerseys and look forward to next year!