As the end of another fine season draws near.

We’re tired and wondering, why am I here?

What was I thinking? What’s in it for me?

There are no benefits, I paid my fee.

I don’t really have the time that it takes,

And no one appreciates the sacrifice I make.

So I made up my mind not to do it next year,

Besides, no one will miss just one volunteer.

So I tucked all my selfish thoughts away,

and left to coach our very last game.

I went with no game plan, we never had won

I thought I’d be quiet and just let them have fun.

My attention was fixed on one kid for some reason,

As I noticed how he had progressed through the season.

When he first came to my team he was timid and small,

He had never played soccer-could not kick a ball.

But I took him aside and we worked on some drills

And little by little he developed his skills.

He was different today, he didn’t seem so small

As he drew back his leg and booted the ball

With strength he pulled straight from the depth of his soul

The ball flew hard and fast

And he scored his first goal.

The game came to an end It was our very first win

He yelled “Coach we did it!” as he’s running in.

I said, “No, YOU did it!”

He said, “Yea, so it seems,

But it wasn’t just me coach, It took the whole team.”

Being totally unselfish, he gave the whole team the credit

HE gave away glory and didn’t regret it.

And from that moment on, regardless of talent or size,

This boy was a hero in everyone’s eyes.

And everyone thanked me for all that I do

Then a voice in my head said, “Hey coach, get a clue!”

It’s not about one child. It’s not about two.

It’s about many and that includes you.

It’s about the child that felt so good

when he thought that he couldn’t and you showed him he could.

How you took the time and you taught him how.

Where there used to be doubt, there is confidence now.

You help shape kid’s lives. It’s huge role to take

We can’t take this lightly. Our future’s at stake.

Teaching pride in ourselves, To take pride in our team,

And that values that built the American Dream.

So when you think you’re not needed You are, here’s the reason,

Remember you helped shape a hero this season.

You are the example for these kids to see

of giving, of compassion, of generosity.

Of patience and sharing, tolerance and hope.

Giving them life skills that help them to cope.

Who would have thought that I could do all of that,

just by giving my time and a pat on the back?

In my self centered thoughts I was too blind to see,

That helping these children also helped me.

Ya know, maybe I should stay. We did have some fun.

Besides, could I trust this job to just anyone?

Yep, I’ve made up my mind. I’ll be back next year.

Proud to be an AYSO volunteer.

— Joni Patton