Beginning today, Outside the Huddle is debuting its series called CORONAVIRUS VOICES, giving area coaches, players and others a platform to share their stories, thoughts and advice during the pandemic.
We kick off the series with Coach Casey Kolkman of Heritage.
These are unusual and unprecedented times for all of us. It’s certainly a test for our ability to adapt and live according to normal routines.
But, like we always do – we adjust and change and make it work. I don’t know how long this is going to last. I’m more concerned about the lasting impact this will have on us as a people. If we are using this to grow or just complain.
It’s disappointing. It’s frustrating. It’s overwhelming at times. But, we can’t change it.
What we can change is our response. We can grow. Life is disappointing. We don’t get what we want, a lot. And the Covid-19 shutdown is one of those situations for sports.
My job isn’t just to coach football. I can’t just focus on designing and calling plays. Sure, I’m building a program, but more importantly I’m building young people into leaders for a lifetime.
You see, sports are just another education opportunity, just another vehicle to drive us further in life. Sports will end for everyone who plays the game, but the lessons are eternal.
If you ask me, it’s time we as adults, not just us coaches, realize this has to be done. We have to grow. The bigger issue goes beyond the effects of Covid-19 and will last long after.
The big picture question – are we becoming team players? Are we willing to sacrifice enough so we ALL can succeed?
These are dangerous – me first – times. Now more than ever we need to work together to find solutions.
Hopefully we all change for the better as a result of these historic times.
Casey Kolkman
Heritage High School
Want to be a part of OTH’s Coronavirus Voices series? Contact us at othscores@gmail.com.
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