GABEBOLTON

Dear Soccer:

I want to start by thanking you for everything you have done for me in my life.  

 

According to mom we first met when I was 2 years old living in Peru.  Since then you have always been there for me.

 

Growing up, no matter where dad's job took us in the world, you always helped me make friends and connect with others.  I remember every team I ever played on.  My teammates are some of my best friends.  Many of my coaches, except the one you let coach me freshman year in high school, have had a positive impact on my life.  

 

After playing you for over 22 years and graduating from law school I pretty much figured you would be something I do on weekends or watch on TV.  But instead I fell in love with coaching you.  It was the best decision I ever made other than marry Kathy!

 

I can't thank you enough for the best job in the world.  Sometimes it can be tough because you are unfair.  Sometimes you take me away from my family too much.  I never seem to have weekends or holidays free.  But I wouldn't trade coaching you for the world.  

 

Every day I get to come to work with a group of women who inspire me to be better.  Sophia, Ben and Brynne get to grow up having wonderful role models in their lives that show them what it means to be a strong confident woman.  I love having this big family that you have given me.  

 

Recently our relationship changed when I became a soccer dad.  To be honest I don't think Sophia love you as much as I do.  It must be hard being my daughter and playing soccer.  It makes me sad when she comes off the field crying because she thinks she isn't a good soccer player or even worse thinks she disappointed me.  I'm trying my best to be a good soccer dad.  It's probably the toughest soccer related job I have right now.  

 

I hope that Sophia, Ben and Brynne all love you as much as I do.  But it's ok if they don't.  We can all still be great friends.  

 

Thanks again for being an important part of my life.  

 

Love,

 

Gabe