My son got invited to an all state football all star game

[Al Wilson 4 Mayor]

Being a high school coach I can understand. Although we do try to instill the don't give up on something cause it's hard or at times very tough, if his heart and mind aren't into it, it's not a good thing for him to be out there. For one, his own safety. And two, his team and teammates.

The halfway in attitude spreads, and no fault to your son. Kids notice that stuff and the first sign of trouble and they all start walking around with that attitude. Plus he may change his mind. He's really young still.

I remember after a sports physical my Junior year the Dr told me I had a slight sports hernia but it was nothing to worry about yet. I literally passed out on the table. The thought that I may have permanently damaged my body and would need surgery when I got older scared me sooo much.

Well, good for your son to have the courage to know and communicate that he wasn't interested in football anymore. That's hard.

Thank you for your input.

It was very hard for him. He was afraid to tell us. He actually started giving us signs last year that he didn't want to play so much. He told me last year he liked basketball more than football. I just didn't want to believe it because he's so talented. He averaged 3 TD's per game over the last four games of the season last year.

He also told me several times over the summer about kids he knew who were giving up football to concentrate on other sports.

I think what really helped me have peace with it was remembering how I felt earlier in the summer when we had to take him to the hospital for a concussion. It was worst than taking him to the hospital for a broken arm when he was a little kid.