If only you knew... you are too young right now to comprehend the struggle, behind the scenes. It would traumatize you to know the things that I deal with on a fairly regular basis.
For the past couple of years you have been begging me to become a soccer coach for your team. I always thought about it, and agreed that it would be fun. I know I would be a great coach, and it would be excellent quality (koinonia) time spent with you. There's nothing I would enjoy more!
So two weeks ago as I was picking you up from your first practice with the 5/6th grade girl's team, your coach began talking with me. He asked me about my playing experience and knowledge of the game. I offered to help out in any way possible, if he wanted. He immediately invited me to become his assistant coach! You were sO excited at the idea (of course, after asking if you could wear #12 like your dad!).
Your coach sent me a volunteer application which I filled out immediately and returned. He asked me to lead the whole team in practice the following Friday. I was pumped! I began to draw up plays and activities that we could do as a team in practice.
Then I got a *text (?) from your coach.
He simply said that my background criminal history prohibited me from volunteering as an assistant coach. He would not explain further. I was devastated! I was trying to figure out what happened, because my criminal history is actually completely erased now. Nothing shows up. I assumed there was some mistake... I called the Parks & Recreation Department and started to argue with them over the phone.
NOTHING infuriates me more than people assuming that my past mistakes has something to do with the safety of children. I would lay down my life to protect you (and any child) from a predator. I am disgusted to even include this blog post.
For three days I went back and forth with the City of Holland.
First they said no. (I was angry).
Then they said yes. (I was happy).
Then they said no again. (I was devastated)!
Even after a friend of mine, the Chief of Holland Police Department (retired, John Kruithoff) called them on my behalf and gave them a character reference, stating that I was a good man, and a great father. This did not change their mind.
I called the Human Resources director, Jennifer Orme. (Yes, she is the wife of Mariah's favorite teacher). I listened to her describe the reason for h e r decision to keep me from coaching your team. Of course, it was to "protect" kids.
I threatened to sue her and called my lawyer. I slammed the phone down and walked away. I took a long walk down Willow Drive, and began to cry. I was SO MAD that they were keeping me from you. I was SO MAD that everybody treats me like I am some kind of criminal. I am SO MAD that nobody will give me a chance. I am SO UPSET that it's not fair to YOU!
So I had to call you and tell you the news: I am not going to be able to coach your soccer team this fall. I made up some story about my schedule not being flexible enough. You were very confused and sad, "Why daddy?!"
It broke my heart. I hung up the phone and cried.
___________
But this Saturday morning, I took you out on a dadd/daughter date. We had breakfast at Anna's House, and you sipped on a hot chocolate. We looked up the origin of your name, and the number of people who are named "Ambria"; you are an original. You are my sunshine. You are my angel.
I love spending time with you, and I would do anything for you Ambria. Thank you for believing in me, and loving me too.
