The Boys of Fall

I absolutely love Kenny's new song. For a lot of guys no matter how old you get this feeling never ever leaves you. I still "train" this time of year as though two a days are right around the corner and it actually matters what kind of shape I'm in. As the boys of summer make way for the boys of fall, old players' and current players' internal clocks start to tick turning into a beating in their chest. That beating culminates in a scream and a sprint out onto a field of battle lit up by bright lights on a Friday night. For a lucky few, on Saturdays and Sundays. Imparting this tradition on kids is why most men coach the game. It's not for any perceived narcissistic glory others think a coach receives for the crap he puts up with from parents and politics. No, it's about teaching that old feeling (still alive inside) about HONOR, GLORY, REACH, HUSTLE, EFFORT, DIG DEEP, FIGHT HARD, GUTS, DETERMINATION, TEAMWORK, LOYALTY, DREAM, ACHIEVE. This is the stuff that makes our country so great. Freedom isn't free and Johnny doesn't get a trophy for just showing up. He needs to work hard and earn it/learn it. Sorry, little league parents. It's a mountain to be climbed, not a water slide. Football is just a microcosm and, for some, the best reminder of what it's all about. God Blessed America and those fortunate enough to have suited it up at one time or to have had the opportunity to teach the next generation. God Bless America and may God bless and guide the next generation to know and live as we did as free, hard working, get it done Americans.



Ry, I'm proud of you for always "leaving it on the field," always giving it your best and always "coming to play." You were and are always a gamer. Stay strong and live strong, buddy. See you again some day. I know you know I'm always there with you in spirit.