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- Parenting
by Jenna Thompson
Updated: July 12, 2021
Originally Published: Sep. 3, 2015
As the days grew shorter and the sun lingered in its slumber, my 11-year-old son, Ethan, became increasingly glum. After stepping off the bus on the final day of day camp, he realized the start of school was fast approaching. Like many kids, he eagerly anticipates summer—the ultimate paradise of childhood filled with play, devoid of homework or early bedtimes. The thought of waiting over 250 days for the next summer break was simply too much for him to handle.
I wondered when I’d see his cheerful grin return… Until one day, he heard the familiar tune, and his face instantly brightened. He claims that the opening notes of the football theme song send delightful shivers down his spine. For many, September’s highlight can be encapsulated in just six simple words: Are you ready for some football?
Sure, fall brings with it homework and quizzes, but it also ushers in tackles and touchdowns. Out go the swimsuits, and in come the jerseys. The latest Madden NFL 16 for Xbox is hot off the shelves at GameStop and other reputable retailers. Five days of school are totally worth it for a Sunday filled with games—not to mention Monday and Thursday night matchups and college action on Saturdays.
When I was a kid, my dad was a die-hard football enthusiast. Every week, he would place bets on games with his buddy, Tom. He’d scour the sports section of the New York Daily News, analyzing games and point spreads. Come Sunday, he’d be glued to the TV, shouting and cheering alongside my two brothers. If things didn’t go their team’s way, they’d be in a foul mood for the rest of the night. I never quite grasped the obsession—it always seemed like a waste of time, not to mention a rather brutal one.
After I married, my husband, Rick, enjoyed football but without the fervor my dad had. He liked to watch, but unless it was a major game, Sundays remained open for other plans. This dynamic continued after we welcomed our two daughters. Then, our son came along.
Initially, we thought we had a solid parenting strategy in place. With three kids, we divided weekend responsibilities. Saturdays, Rick was more than happy to handle any sports obligations or party drop-offs for the girls. Sundays, however, he took it upon himself to stay home with the baby. I’d often find him lounging on the couch, “watching” the baby with a remote in one hand and the monitor in the other. As the baby grew into a toddler, he joined his dad on the couch, primarily to sneak in some chips without my watchful gaze.
At the age of 7, Ethan transitioned from Nickelodeon to ESPN as his morning routine. Following in my dad’s footsteps, he began poring over stats and scores. But with technology, he could consume sports content around the clock. He begged Rick to subscribe to NFL RedZone so he could catch every game simultaneously.
In 2009, he fell head over heels for the Jets (one of the few years in recent history that was worth cheering for) as they made a run for the playoffs. Our good friend, a lifelong Jets fan, warned him that this wasn’t the “true” Jets experience he was rooting for, and that being a Jets fan often leads to disappointment. Unfortunately, he has experienced that firsthand. There have been several tearful Sunday nights and tough bus rides on Monday mornings surrounded by Giants fans. Now, at 11, he’s discovered that fantasy leagues help ease the pain of losses (which is why he has three teams).
With all this constant sports chatter, I’ve surprisingly picked up a bit about football—something I never cared for before. Recently, I was chatting about football with my dad, who couldn’t fathom how I became interested in sports when I used to think they were dull. I explained that while I’m still not a sports fanatic, I am a fan of my son. If waking up and checking scores is a way to bond with him (and find out which jerseys he’ll wear to school), then I’m all in.
Watching ESPN with Ethan has also been a great opportunity to impart some valuable life lessons. The world of professional sports is filled with inspiring stories of resilience and courage. Nothing illustrates the value of perseverance quite like the Patriots’ last-minute victory in last year’s Super Bowl. On the flip side, sports—especially football—are rife with controversies and topics I wish Ethan didn’t have to encounter at such a young age. However, my husband and I have turned these scandals into teaching moments, addressing issues like poor sportsmanship, cheating, and substance abuse. I truly value how football discussions help me connect with my son, especially as he approaches his teenage years.
So, am I ready for some football? Absolutely! I’ve got the chips, salsa, and a box of tissues on standby!
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In summary, while the arrival of fall means saying goodbye to carefree summer days, it also brings exciting football season—an opportunity for connection, learning, and unforgettable family moments.