American Brittany, American Dad: Week 9

Fall 2009- I looked out across the field from the sideline and noticed Justin Hunt was under center, and our QB Bryan Blacka was spread out wide right. (What in the world is going on) Jim and I were losing our minds in disbelief as the last few seconds ticked off the clock with us trailing West Jeff White by less than a score. Just then with only seconds left, Antonio Valero snapped the ball and Justin dropped back to pass. He launched the prettiest pass that i had seen in all the years of junior football. Deep over the middle, It felt as if the ball was in the air for an eternity when Bryan reached up and snatched it down, he beat the one lone defender and trotted into the in zone for the win over West Jeff.
On this night as I walked into Volunteer field, memories from years past like this one rushed over me. I looked around and saw all these young men that we have parented, coached, disciplined when needed, cheered for, and now we are on the verge of sending into the world of adulthood. My chest swells with pride for all of them, for what we have all worked together to instill in them, but tonight my heart could barely take it.
I arrived at my seat earlier than normal, 5:37 for the 7:00 kick off. I took note of the tempature it was a warm & dry 75 degrees with a slight wind out of the south. I sat silently there in a moment of solitude taking in the sounds and smells, but had to quickly return to the present. Stacy called for me to come down to the field to line up for senior announcements. Don't forget your sunglasses, I reminded myself, as I reached back to grab them (these would be must tonight). We lined up with the other senior parents, and I think we were all feeling the same thing. Excited for the game to start, but hanging onto every moment, and just trying to slow down the eminent, fast approaching, end of this season.
Announcements started and one by one the fall athletes of this senior class marched accross the field. I listened to the hopes and dreams that the kids had written about themselves, and their plans for their futures. It was exciting to hear the big aspirations these kids have. There are future doctors, businessmen and women, a welder, a nurse, and the list went on and on. They really are the future of this country, and while I cant say that I feel great about their generation as a whole, I can say I feel exceptionally good about this this group of of kids. Nolan joined us, just before the football players started their part of the announcements. It was exciting to get to stand next to him, and talk to him on the field. He is not a kid that will typically sit back and let you do things for him, but he let me carry his helmet accross the field, which I thought was kind of neat.
"Nolan Larison, accompied by his mom and Dad Matt and Stacy Larison" - That was the last thing I heard... We headed accross the field, stopping only to smile for some pictures. I'm not sure why I didn't hear the rest of his senior announcement (i tuned it out perhaps) but I didn't need to hear it anyway. I had already heard and read it. I've been hearing it since he was in the 6th grade, and he's been preparing us for it since then as well. He's inlisting in the Navy, and pursing his dream of becoming special forces. We all know very few men are truly capable of making it, but I'd bet everything I have on him, he'll make it. Just like so many of these kids will accomplish their dreams as well. They just have to be brave enough to believe they can do it, and never quit. When we got to the other side we shook hands with the coaches, and we got to see a glimpse of the connection that Nolan has with several of the coaches. Regardless of whether I like everycall or decision thats made, I am truly thankful for the time, attention, and dedication they have all poured into him and all the others as well. They have made him a better person, and a great team mate. Finally, all the dads got stand with all of our senior sons on the hash mark for the coin toss. I could feel the excitement, from the boys as game time got closer. After the coin toss, I gave him this parting advice. "No plays off Kid, Take no prisoners. Love Ya". On the way off the field, got a hug from Sully, and Drew and I couldn't look back. Just had to push the glasses up a little tighter to my face and march on back to my seat.
The boys in black got it done 35-21 tonight, and secured a birth in the playoffs. The offensive line, paved the way for Jamie who fought hard for yards as he always does. Nolan took the lead in the CBC for sacks, capturing the QB on 2 separate occasions. One of my favorite plays of the season occurred in this game. Early in the 4th quarter, with the score knotted up at 21's Shawnee had the ball and and took off on an outside run opposite of Nolans side. A gang of Alder tacklers, had met the running back and his support staff of linemen. Bryan Blacka got a hand on the ball and was attempting to work it loose before the refs whistled it dead. When all the sudden #52 comes blazing a trail accross the field, (from the opposite side) and blows the pile apart like a stick of dynamite. Bodies went all different directions, and so did the ball. Blacka quickly scooped it up and took it to the house for the score. Simply an awesome hustle play by Nolan, and smart play by Bryan.
Stacy and I couldn't be more proud of this senior class, and the leadership they have displayed this season. Nolan, I wrote you letter at the beginning of this season where I gave you some advice for this year about leadership, and leaving it all on the field to make sure you had no regrets when it ends. Its obvious that you took it, and took it to heart. I am so proud to be your dad, and I'll only be even more proud as you pursue your dreams in your next phase of life.
Well the boys extended their season just a little further with their performance with this win, and all of us parents are excited for each one that we get. Nice job boys, keep it going....
Next up Week 10 - Graham Local
Photo credit Bill Morgan
First sack of the night!