We had our last practice before the Regional Final tonight, and after we win tomorrow night, we will have just one more. (Yes, I expect to win…..I always do!) But as I stood there on the field watching the girls practice in the drizzle, it hit me that a week from now it will be but a memory. The high school lacrosse careers of 7 girls, including my daughter, will come to an end, and a new chapter will open. It is always so bittersweet for me, and this year more than ever.

Though I am at home with Ben, Amanda is at the board meeting giving our report. Our boy’s coach, who is also the Director of Coaching for the entire organization, is retiring this year. Rick is a top shelf coach and man, and he will be missed. Andy “Mac” steps in to take his place, and has served as Rick’s understudy for years. The program will continue to develop and grow, it just will feel different….for all of us. Rick is really the father of Noblesville Lacrosse, and for him we are all very thankful.

And as for me, I have agreed to continue on. As ANY of our coaches will tell you, we love what we do, and have great players and parents. Noblesville is a wonderful community too. I would love to do it forever, because I love the challenge and I love to develop athletes. I never intended nor wanted to coach lacrosse (I was a baseball and hockey guy and always BOYS) but circumstances led this to happen. Women’s sports is different, and female athletes are VERY different too. But I really have to say I respect each one of my players, and the only tense part of coaching is coaching your child….especially when she is an amazing player. I am very interested to see how I do when our relationship is not in play. I am sure she is too.

But what I want to say is that her development into one of the best players in the state has less to do with my coaching ability and everything to do with her drive and desire to be a top-notch player. My job has been to see the big picture and pull this team together. I am truly blessed to have such a dedicated and passionate player to coach….it is just a double blessing that that she is my daughter too.

Anyway….tomorrow is the Regional Final! Go Lady Millers! It all comes down to the next few days!

Goodnight and God Bless!

Tommy+