Josh returns to the basketball team.
Josh’s high school basketball team played their last game of the season. Unfortunately the season ended with a loss in the CIF playoffs. Essentially it was Josh’s last game of his high school career as a player. I asked him what it felt like when he realized this was his last game. He said “It feels empty. Kinda sad, kinda happy. I wish I could have been in the game for my guys so we could see another game at home. It feels weird knowing there’s no more practice.” Since the basketball team began their season this year, Josh had attended practices and sat on the bench with his team each game whether home or away. Rooting and cheering for his guys on the floor and keeping an upbeat attitude on the sidelines, Josh realized how important a role he can play for his team without handling the ball. He high-fived each player coming in or out of the game and was a loud voice in the huddle.
Some exciting moments for me as Dad were to see Josh on the floor with the team during warm-ups, before the game and at halftime. He would set defense for the team as they took their warm-up shots and tossed encouragement during their drills. Crouched down, left hand in the air, and focus in his eyes, Josh showed us how serious he was. He proved to himself and his teammates, though he suffered a stroke, he could still play this game with passion and have a purpose on the team. At the beginning of the final game, the seniors were recognized in front of the croud. As Josh’s name was announced, he was surprized to hear his name but stood and began walking to shake the coaches hands. His teamates and those around stood and clapped for Josh arousingly as he took his steps.
It was absolutely a thrill to see my kid back in the gym, on the basketball court, with a smile on his face. Considering all he has endured amid this injury, the moments were priceless and difficult to hold back tears. Thank you to the Valley View Eagles Basketball team and Coach Long for their support and understanding this season.
