Last Updated on March 3, 2025 by The Smetz Files
I’m a middle school mom to tweens who love sports. Let’s connect if you are too!
This morning was my day to take the middle school boys to school. We’re in a carpool with two other middle schoolers in our neighborhood. Beyond the logistical convenience of sharing transportation responsibilities, I genuinely enjoy my morning drop off duties.
This morning was particularly fun. Each boy is trying out for spring sports this afternoon. Two of them are trying out for baseball. The third one is hoping to make the track team.
So, my car was loaded down with three middle school boys, baseball and track gear, extra snacks and water bottles, and enough excitement to power the remainder of my week!
Normally Monday morning car pool is quiet, reserved, and you’ll likely catch a few yawns from the backseat. They’ll offer obligatory greetings and then settle back with their heads against the seats as they mentally prepare to face the week.
Excitement
Not today! Lots of excited commentary and discussion about their gear, if they brought the right change of clothes, directions and reminders about what time and where I should pick them up.
There were questions around IF they make the team, when practices start, which schools had the best teams last year, and who had lots of eighth graders that moved on.
I was excited for them!
We made it to the school’s entry and it took longer than usual for them to get out of the car, secure all their extra belongings, and make sure they had everything. As I drove off I shouted one final, ‘Good luck, have fun!’ and received a chorus of ‘thank you’ as they made their way into the building, talking animatedly with their friends.
Possibilities
Here’s the thing, I have no idea if they’ll make their respective teams. And if they don’t, we’ll deal with the disappointment.
But they are such good kids with so many good things going for them. They’re all bright, work hard, and make good grades. They’re active not only in sports, but in Campus Life and youth group at church. They banter good naturedly, but genuinely support each other and take an interest in what the others are doing.
The three of them are simply fun to be around.
This morning made me think of possibilities. I’m excited for what might potentially be in store for them.
They’ve worked hard. They’ve prepared. They’ve trained together and shared ideas for getting in shape.
This little trio has a sense of community. And in a stage where so much feels awkward and unsure, it’s a great safety net. Despite the challenges of middle school, these three guys are finding a way.
As a mom to a middle schooler, these connections are important.
So, here’s to the possibilities. Regardless if they make the team or not, here’s to the many life lessons sports teaches us. And here’s to belonging to something greater than yourself.
Thanks for reading The Smetz Files!
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