Back when CP was balancing AS cheer and soccer, she was approached about advancing to a level 5 team and crossing over to fly on coed. We had to think long and hard about her decision because of a number of factors: she was really reaching her peak in soccer (she was tall for her age and could outrun and maneuver all her opponents), yet she was really good at cheer and was excited with this new opportunity but both activities involved more extensive out of town travel and commitment. So we sat her down and explained to her that it wouldn't be fair to her teammates if she couldn't fully commit to always be a reliable member of the team given the expectations of both teams, so the time came where SHE had to choose between the 2 activities. Again, SHE had to choose. It would not be fair to anyone to expect her to commit only half her time and effort to each activity, while they gave all their time and energy to their sole commitment. She understood that, so...
She chose cheer. After 13 years of cheering, she now cheers for her college team and is on her college nationals team and competes on a worlds international team. Do we wonder where she would be had she continued to play soccer? Sure!! But she sure is a happy cheerleader who chose her path and says she doesn't regret the decisions she has made regarding where she is right now: living her dream!!
Most people can't commit fully to 2 activities so don't feel like you, as a coach, are making your athletes make a difficult decision. They have to decide what they want to do. I'm sure every coach, in every sport, feels the same way that you feel in this situation.
By the way, the discussion with CP's former soccer coach when she left soccer was a difficult but honest one, and you know, he was so understanding and kind about her explanation about her opportunity for cheer, and to this day, when he sees her, he tells her how proud he is of her success and her hard work and determination, even though it was his loss!!
The Fierce Board App! ||
iPhone ||
Android