Number Twenty-Four

Indiana is a basketball state.  It's the sport kids want to be good at in grade school, high school and college.  Texas is not Indiana.  Texas is a football state... actually more of a football nation.  It's a whole other world down here.  Since Alex started playing, I've learned a little more about the game.  I'm still not addicted, but I'm getting there.  Last Saturday, I was in the 98 degree sun on the bleachers cheering like I was watching the Super Bowl.  I tell you in all seriousness, these kids are talented and dedicated. 

The head coach is something out of a book...former marine with a crew cut, born and bred Texan and about 60 years old.  Says things like, ""Are you hurt or are you injured?""  ""Maybe if you got a decent hair cut, you could hit him next time.""  ""That coach hasn't won a championship since the heavyweight champion of the world was white.""  Pure old school.  He cracks me up and the boys love him. 

I am very impressed with our coaching staff.  Yes, we have a staff.  Five dedicated men who, until school started, were coming out two hours a day, 4 days a week for practice and to the games on Saturday.  And they don't get paid, they all volunteer their time and their families' time.  Now we only practice 3 days a week for an hour and a half per IBFA regulations.  And I'm learning that it's not just a game to these people.  Someone tried to get the coach in trouble by starting a rumor that our kids are still out there 2 hours or more.  I don't get it.  Someone is always complaining about the Eagles.

The team's practice jerseys all say ""HUFF 24"" in honor of our generous sponsor.  The boys look nice and during the scrimmages and pre-season game, they looked like a team, not a bunch of ragamuffins.  Someone complained about that.  They can't tell who's who and they want to scout the team to see who to watch out for come the real season.  Coaches from other teams come and sit in the stands and pump parents for information.  They ask who's the starting quarterback.  They are not amused when we tell them it's number 24.  I get a chuckle out of it every time.  No one outside the coaches and parents thinks it's funny.  Even at practice we think it's funny.  ""That number 24 is looking good today."" 

Opening ceremonies are next week and games are every Saturday.  Check the  website for info. It is password protected, but I'm not telling you here.  Shoot me an email.