Alex Made the Freshman Basketball Team

When I walked into the gym last night I saw the boys just walking around and shooting baskets here and there. The coaches were in the office deciding who is going to be on the team. I sat with Marianne, whose son Jake was also trying out for the team. She seemed to be more calm than me. A few minutes later, the coaches came out and first the 2 other coaches thanked all the players for their hard work in the past three days and then the head coach gave some advice to those who would not be chosen to play this year. I looked at Alex and his eyes were focused on the coach, and every word he was saying.

Then came the words:"These are the following players who will come and practice tomorrow after school and who will be on the freshman team this year: Alex Larsen, Jace Hill....Jake Bingham", after that I didn't hear any other names. Alex's name was mentioned first. I looked at Alex and he was looking at me with the biggest smile on his face. I was so proud of him. Then he came over to me and we gave each other two handed high fives.

We left the gym and I texted Rod right away who was in Nashville, TN last night. Then he called Alex. Rod was extremely emotional and so proud of Alex. I heard Alex tell Rod:"Don't cry dad!"

I felt so bad for those 4 players who didn't make the team. They were sitting on the gym floor just stunned. I wonder what is next for them. How do they deal with the rejection.

Earlier in the day I had made reservations to Chef's Table, so we could go celebrate this first step in Alex's basketball dream. And that's where we headed after a quick shower at home. Just Alex and I.


Alex and his celebration meal at Chef's Table. Kent, the owner, and the waiters came over to congratulate Alex.


After sharing this German Chocolate Cake, we headed home so Alex can chat with his friends and receive his congratulations from everyone.

What a day!

Today, first practice. First game on November 24th at 3:30 at Lakeridge.