Back in 2020, I decided to sponsor my daughter Abby's soccer team, the Werkbot Robots. Coaching the team wasn't initially on my radar. My older son, Art, had been playing soccer for a few years, and I always enjoyed watching his games. But for Abby, her anxiety often took over, making practices and games a struggle. She would often refuse to play, spending most of the time on the sidelines.
By 2021, I took on the role of coach, hoping to support Abby more directly. She participated about 80% of the time, but it was still a significant challenge for her. By the end of the summer, we had her evaluated, and she received a provisional diagnosis for Autism. We were certain that wasn't the case, and after several months, we learned about PANS and PANDAS. These conditions seemed to fit her symptoms perfectly, so we sought help in Pittsburgh, where more resources were available than in Erie. Once Abby started treatment, she was almost a different person. Although she still struggled at times, her improvement was remarkable.
Over the past few years, Abby has gained more confidence on the field. It's been fascinating to watch not just her, but all the kids on the team, grow and develop. Some of them have played together for a few years now, and it's interesting to see the differences in each child's personality and skills, as well as the varied parenting styles that influence them. At the age of 8, it's crucial to ensure all kids get equal treatment, fostering a sense of fairness and teamwork.
This year, we have a well-rounded team with a wide range of skills. We have the ball hog, the players with finesse, the one who loves to slide tackle (even though it's not permitted at this age), the first-timers, and the one who never brings his shin guards. Watching them learn and grow as individuals and as a team has been a truly rewarding experience.
The biggest lesson I've learned from coaching is the importance of patience and staying calm. This attitude not only helps me manage the team more effectively but also sets a positive example for the kids. When I remain composed, it helps them stay calm, even during stressful moments. This approach extends beyond the soccer field, influencing other areas of life and reinforcing the value of patience and composure in all situations.