After years and years of being a serious football fan; finally have a little bit with the same fire like passion. Z has always told me he liked football. On occasion he would watch with me then move on to more exciting things in his world; i.e. building forts, video games, digging holes in the dirt. Well this September I was picking up my friend's son from school and saw Z's bestfriend's dad. He was coaching a tackle team and told me to bring Z out. Z had only played flag in the past. I called Z asked if he wanted to play and the rest is history. Tio brought him out to the field and it was on.... In this short amount of time, Coach Antwaun has taught the boys the true meaning of this wonderful sport. He has given them an opportunity that most kids don't get until they are in midddle school. These little guys have heart, love and understanding in, for and of the game. Coach Antwaun did not just tell them what to do, but taught them why. They had play books, they had to learn plays by watching his hands. One slight shift would changed an entire play. They had to study and be alert. They had to follow directions and work as a team. He truly taught them many of life's lessons on the field and off. He stressed the importance of school and education, being on time and prepared.. truly the list goes on. The 3rd & 4th graders had the opportunity to scrimage with our 5th & 6th grade team; our boys gave them arun for their money. Zumere has been blessed from this experience. He genuinely loves to play football and has a desire to learn more. His season is over, but the highlights have been amazing. Mr. Z has made spectacular plays. He is fast off the line on defense and his tackles are just nasty. He made four interceptions; one at the 4th & goal mark stopping a touchdown for the other team. He ran in a two point conversion in the first game after best friend Parker got the touchdown. It was truly a joy seeing these boys together again. He got better and better with each game. He has already started with another team and ready to get dirty. I've been told I can't wash his pants because he like the dirt on them. Wow! We'll have to talk about that one. Special thanks to big bro, Tio for practicing with Z in the front yard learning routes and all the rides to practice when I was still working. You are awesome. Big ups to Uncles Derrick& Dewayne, (cousins)DaMare, Deion & Davin for our family football & basketball games. Those kids really had to put in work & that is a great lesson for all of them. Final note: GO STEELERS!!!!!
