Hard Work Does Pay Off in A Big Way

You may remember the post I wrote about my son, who, as hard as he tried and as good as he was, didn’t make his high school soccer team. Read this post to get an understanding if you want to.

On Friday night we attended my son’s high school hockey banquet. You may recall that last year was my son’s first year playing hockey (as a junior in high school) and actually his first year skating EVER. The coach took him on the team as a developmental player. 

And let me say, it takes a special coach to see beyond skill and ability and to see heart and determination. Because this coach was willing to give my son a chance at doing something he loved, my son excelled. He worked his butt off between seasons. When he wasn’t at the rink skating, he was in our garage or on the street smacking pucks against a net. This is a kid who has a work ethic beyond comprehension. He’s a kid you want on your team.

He improved so much that he made the second line on the varsity hockey team this year. So, the coach gave a five minute speech about my son and his leadership, work ethic, and character…it’s a moment parents dream about. Then my son was presented with the Hobey Baker Character Award; I cried. To sum it up, these are the words that describe recipients: “Character, Commitment, Teamwork, Persistence, Selflessness, Academic Excellence, and Sportsmanship. The Team before me.” It was wonderful to see my son recognized for his character and hard work. As parents, it was probably one of the proudest moments in our lives. We have many trophies and awards lining our basement walls at our household, but this one is truly special. 

So, as much as my husband and I wish we could take credit for this, in truth, my son is special. Yes, we reinforced work ethic, yes, we preached about integrity, but truly, this type of strength and character comes from within him. Way to go, bud. Hard work and a huge heart pay off. You’re a living example of what parents dream about.