Red Badge of Courage

 There's a classic novel about a teenaged boy who volunteers for the Confederate Army in the Civil War. The entire story revolves around his internal fears and doubts. He wonders if he will fight or flight, when the actual fighting commences. Will he run away in fear, or will he attack with passion?

Last week, the Varsity soccer coach pulled you up from your duties on the JV Squad. The Holland Dutch were hosting Niles, a non-conference game. Many of the varsity players were injured, and they needed help. So our question is... sure, you do well against other JV players of your own age, but how would handle the increased competition of elite players?

You came in off the bench, and immediate DOMINATED! 

I was screaming on the sideline, and watching you repeatedly annihilate the competition... You would streak down the right side line, dribbling through the defenders and passing the ball to the center. You had a brilliant assist, and the crowd was going crazy for you! Jacob and his friends were screaming your name! 

After the game you came over toward me and I caught up with you on the sideline. I was SO PROUD OF YOU! I could not contain myself! I absolutely love watching you finding your strength and pride. 

I love being the obnoxiously loud and proud father of Ambria Diesel DePoy!