We had a very difficult decision to make this weekend. We had a few options, but decided to have Sydney take a one year break from Synchro. Shell still skate, but focus on her individual skills and testing. With my surgery, preschool, etcetera costs this year, we just didnt have the $5,000 to cover the fees, plane fare, other travel expenses etc. She has been on a team since she was 4.5 years old so its a shock for her. We explained it all, but she was devastated and said she didnt know who she was without synchro, and that made me pause. She cant appreciate or acknowledge that shes a straight A student? A swimmer? A runner? That shes funny or caring? I knew then she needed this time to see who she is as a whole person, not just one thing. We felt bad.. You want to give your kids everything.. But is that the RIGHT thing? Learning to delay gratification and sacrifice is vital these days. To learn that the world does not revolve around you and you need to be part of a family, and that means taking care of each other. I had been terrified that shed be left behind. You all hear the horror stories. I read up and almost all coaches (the ones who look long term at your child and care about them and not next seasons winning record) ENCOURAGE kids to take a year off. They need a break, a rest, recharge. Push too hard and they burn out, physically deteriorate and more likely to injure. Its a lie that its so much competition you cant. That you have to start at 3 or your kid is toast. We live in a world of competitive parents who instigate that mindset and the rest of us follow. When I went in to kiss her goodnight, Sydney said, Mom, I may not feel happy about no synchro this year, but I know already to be thankful for the opportunities I do get, and I will work extra hard this year on my skate skills and really focus when I go back to synchro. I understand that I have to earn and respect opportunities and be thankful for what you and Dad do so I can. I am happy that I can help the family by taking a year off, and I want to sell bracelets to save up money to help with camp next year. I understand now that I have to learn to wait and to sacrifice sometimes but that will help me be a better person. I could not have been any prouder or more grateful for my child. She is determined to go as far as she can in this sport, world class level... So taking a break now to gear up for the long road ahead sounds solid to us. Please, those of you who know her, give her a hug if you see her. She is one awesome kid and I could not be prouder of her.
Posted on: Mon, 07 Apr 2014 15:37:20 +0000
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