The Spiritual Sidelines: Embracing Cody’s 6th Grade Football Journey
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Hey my fellow souls! My new book is live - Many Lives, One Soul: My Journey to Becoming Whole
Marc Tagliaferri
September 9, 2023
Life is a beautifully winding path...
Life is a beautifully winding path...
I’ve learned to appreciate every twist and turn it brings. Football has always been a part of my life, from my days on the high school field to my time in Semi-Pro Football. Now I find solace and joy in watching games, from 6th-grade football to the NFL. As I prepare to witness my son Cody’s 6th-grade football season, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that brought us here.
Football is still a part of me even when I am not watching my sons play. In my downtime, I unwind by playing Madden online and immersing myself in the world of Fantasy football. These are more than just games to me; they are a way to stay connected to the sport I love and appreciate its nuances on a deeper level.
My journey into the world of football coaching began when my older sons, Victor, Giovanni, Andre, and Marcques, played AKL football. My coaching style has always been down-to-earth and physical, emphasizing the fundamental values of teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship. Those coaching days hold a special place in my heart, and the bonds I formed with my players have transcended time and age, impacting their young adult lives.
Marcques is about to embark on his 5th year of college football, while Andre is starting his first year in college football. Watching them continue their football journey at the collegiate level fills me with immense pride. They’ve come a long way from the days when they were just starting out in AKL football or playing a family football game in the backyard. I must say go Thunder and go Cougars as the Trine and Saint Francis flags wave in the wind in my front yard.
Now, it’s Cody’s turn to take the field, and it’s a different experience for me. I’m not part of the coaching staff, and I get to see 6th-grade football from a fresh perspective, one that allows me to fully embrace the role of a supportive father. I enjoy watching Cody tackling, making stops, and blocking with determination and grit.
While I’m not on the sidelines, I find joy in working with Cody at home, honing his skills and providing him with daily workouts. It’s a time for us to bond, and even his younger sister, Blair, joins in on the workouts, fostering a sense of unity within our family. Cody also spent time during off-season going on jogs with his older sister, Makayla, building not only physical strength but also strong sibling connections.
He started as a soft-spoken child, but I’ve witnessed him develop into a tough pre-teen, learning life lessons that go beyond the gridiron. Football has a unique way of teaching discipline, perseverance, and resilience, and I’m grateful for the values it instills in my son.
As I eagerly await Cody’s 6th-grade season, I know he’s in capable hands with his coaches. I hope that Cody will have the opportunity to bond with his coaches, much like the connections I forged with my players when I was coaching. These bonds have carried into my old players’ young adult lives, demonstrating the profound impact that a coach can have on a player’s journey.
I’ve come to understand that life is about evolving and embracing change. Cody’s football journey is his own, and I’m here to support and encourage him every step of the way. I have complete confidence that he will have a fantastic year, filled with both triumphs and challenges that will mold him into a stronger, more resilient individual.
One of the things I’m most looking forward to this season is watching Cody’s games from the grassy hillside, surrounded by our family. Football has a unique way of bringing people together, and the bond our family shares is something truly special. From the hillside, I’ll encourage Cody and his team.
In the grander scheme of things, football is more than just a game. It’s a spiritual experience, a journey of growth and self-discovery. It’s about connecting with others, forming lasting bonds, and learning valuable life lessons. Cody’s 6th-grade season is just the beginning of his own football odyssey, and I’m excited to be a part of it in a different way than I was before.
As a father, there’s no greater joy than witnessing your child’s growth and development. Cody may be following in my footsteps on the football field, but he’s also blazing his own trail, and I couldn’t be prouder. I hope that this season brings him not only success on the field but also a deeper connection to the sport, his coaches, and his teammates.
In closing, Cody’s 6th-grade football journey is a reminder that life is full of unexpected twists and turns, and it’s our job to embrace them with an open heart. Football has been a constant thread in our family’s tapestry, connecting generations and teaching us invaluable life lessons. As Cody continues to evolve into a resilient and determined young man, I am excited to see how football will shape his character and prepare him for the adventures that lie ahead.
Thank you for your time. Blessed be, God bless, and Peace. Deuces.
"Stay blessed, stay true to yourself, and always remember, you’re never alone on this incredible journey. Wishing you an abundance of peace, love, and an overflow of good vibes until our paths cross again. Thanks for being a part of this adventure with me. Until next time, Deuces!"
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