I had to write a pretty difficult email today turning down a really wonderful opportunity to coach Cross Country at one of our local high schools. You see - a big part of the reason I became a teacher was so I could coach. In my life, no one affected me more than my parents and my coaches.
Currently, I coach middle school track and cross-country. I LOVE IT. My kids are awesome. They are just learning about running, so my job is extremely rewarding. I get to show them all the great parts about something I already love!
Recently, I was approached about coaching high school XC. I hemmed. I hawed. I thought I would try it - because - why not? But somewhere in my heart it didn't sit quite right. I couldn't picture myself in the setting. I felt I might be abandoning "my babies" as I often refer to my naughty 13 year olds at the middle school. I also felt like I would have to set a lot of my own competitive goals aside - and I still have pretty lofty goals as a 31 year old. (I am afraid to write them down, but I have some serious expectations of myself for the next year. More on that later!)
Today - with the help of a glass of wine and an unexpected opportunity - I decided I am not done coaching myself. I'm not old! I have goals! I have a small window of opportunity to really focus on myself and I am going to do just that - all while keeping my current coaching job with the babies that see me every day in science class. Those are my kids and they need someone to give a shit when they're just starting out. THAT is my role.
Maybe I'll coach high school when I'm done coaching me. Coaching others is important - but I can't quit on this girl that I've been coaching all along.
I think you made the right decision. Most runners are fastest in their mid-thirties, plus, High Schoolers are stressful!
ReplyDeleteAmen sister! :) How are you feeling? Healthy?
DeleteListen miss 31. Your going to accomplish these goals, come heckl or high water. Now is the time! Across the board. I support this decision !
ReplyDeleteAw, I love this! It's great to focus on yourself sometimes!
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like it was a hard decision but you definitely made the right one for yourself. I cannot wait to see what is in store for you!!
ReplyDelete