Varsity Soccer - Diesel DePoy

One thing is clear: there is an abrupt transition between JV and Varsity Soccer! There is a sizable difference between the athletes in the evolution of development. Where you once stood out as one of the best players on the field, you're finding yourself battling for a position in the lineup. 

A couple of weeks ago we could all hear your Coach Sitehammel literally screaming at the team to play harder and better. And then last week he made it personal. He called you out by name in front of the whole team, and criticized your efforts. 

Now, I know you. And I know that you are not used to being yelled at. And I you've never been publicly humiliated. And I definitely know that you will not respond well to being disrespected! You can handle coaching and instruction, but not through being called out and criticized. 

After the game you met me at half field with tears in your eyes. (It's been a long time since I've seen you cry!) After inquiring, you explained that you were "so sick of your coach. He's so mean!" His vocal criticism was very hurtful, and unprofessional...

Well, nobody makes my daughter cry! You continued to walk away across the field while Coach Sitehammel approached me. I met him directly with a confrontational tone - that he needs to speak differently and watch his tone when addressing my daughter! I told him that you are receptive to instruction but not disrespect, and that if he needs to provide coaching critique, to pull you aside and talk privately. He agreed with me, apologized and promised that he would not make that mistake again.

On Saturday, I drove up to Traverse City to watch you play in a tournament. In the beautiful sunshine, you started at left wing, and played with enthusiastic energy and a surge of confidence! You played with speed and aggression, making crisp passes and almost scored on a couple of occasions. On one particular play, I captured video footage of you racing to the ball and beating out the opposing defender...

I love watching you excel, especially when you turn on that diesel engine and slam your way through the victory! 

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