We are an active, sports-loving family. I write frequently about raising two tweens engaged in youth sports. I’m proud of the hard work and passion they pour into their training. But I’m proudest of the ways they show up for each other. In the past I’ve posted on social media, sharing my appreciation to my kids when they support their siblings in their sporting endeavors. Here’s a closer look at what that means.
Siblings are often the unsung heroes of youth sports. Sports and extracurricular activities require not only the commitment of the participant but typically there’s a huge ask for all family members. When it comes to weekend tournaments or all-day sporting events, siblings often get stuck tagging along even if it’s not their activity. We’re well past the days of trying a million ways to avoid a cranky toddler’s meltdown when they miss their nap. Or when someone needs to go to the bathroom at the exact moment your kid is up to bat. You know, the days when mom schleps all the stuff to the field, only to miss the big moment because another sibling needs her attention.
Over the last few years as my two young athletes have grown and focused more intently on their respective sports, I have admired how they show up for each other. They know each other’s teammates and cheer on the whole team while supporting their sibling. I’m in awe of how they can recall key plays or remarkable moments despite the fact I assume they aren’t paying attention as they rummage through the cooler in search of their next snack.
At gymnastics meets, my son used to dutifully take my phone and weave his way closer to the floor to video his sister’s routines. You can hear him whisper, “Yes!” when she nailed certain skills, quietly cheering her on from behind the lens.
My daughter spent her toddler and early years happily occupying herself as we trekked from field to court to the ice rink and back. She’s grown up on the baseball diamond, and while we didn’t think she was paying attention, she has become a student of the game and can discuss some of the more nuanced aspects she sees.
They’ve each gotten up early and stayed up late to be present for their sibling. They’ve traveled long hours, across several states, and sacrificed their weekends. They’ve huddled in the car during rain delays. They’ve bundled up in the freezing cold and endured the extreme heat of summer ball. They’ve allowed our attention to be focused on cheering for their sibling during games.
Some of my favorite moments with our little family include driving to or from a game, the kids playing DJ, and the four of us discussing remarkable plays, ways to improve, and reflecting on how hard they’ve worked to refine their craft. There are always some good-natured sibling rivalry comments passed back and forth, and perhaps a bit of banter thrown at good old Dad, who is a former athlete himself. But, I love it when I hear one of them say to their sibling, “That play was awesome, I’m so proud of you!”
To the families like us who are in the throes of youth sports and all that entails, I hope your kids show up for each other to make the time and effort to make it all that much sweeter.
by Diane Karr 
