Parents have a million responsibilities pulling them in different directions. Work, deadlines, commutes, bills, and daily obligations often take center stage. It’s easy to assume that missing a child’s game isn’t a big deal. After all, they might not even notice, right? But what if they do? What if your presence at that one game could be the difference between them feeling supported or feeling alone? What if the simple act of showing up is what reassures them that their dreams matter?
I never fully understood the depth of my parents’ commitment when I was younger. I was just a kid who loved basketball, who wanted to get better, and who craved the validation that every child seeks from the people they love most. And yet, looking back, I see how much their presence shaped me—not just as an athlete but as a person. The way they made time for me and my sister, no matter how chaotic life got, sent a message that still resonates today.
They Were Always There
Growing up, I didn’t grasp the sacrifices my parents made to be at every basketball game. Both worked demanding jobs in the city—my mom a court reporter, my dad a lawyer. They endured long commutes, late nights, and career stress. But none of that registered to me as a child. All I knew was that when I looked into the stands, they were always there.
Seeing Them Meant Everything
I searched for their faces before every game started. The moment I found them, something inside me settled—I mattered. My dreams, however big or small, mattered. Basketball wasn’t just a sport to me; it was my passion, my identity. My dad played in college, so from the time I could walk, I was dribbling a ball. I joined every league I could, went to basketball camps, and played for my school’s team. By high school, basketball was my top priority. Through all those years—more than 15 in total—my parents never missed a game. Not one.
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Their Sacrifices Were Invisible To Me
Looking back, I now understand how hard that must have been. They left work early, navigated brutal commutes, and sat through freezing Midwestern snowstorms. Since my sister also played, they often split up, ensuring that we both had a parent present. It didn’t matter if it was a championship matchup or a low-stakes scrimmage—they showed up every time.
Their Presence Meant More Than Cheers
At the time, I was simply grateful. But as an adult, I see the deeper siagnificance. Their unwavering presence wasn’t just about cheering me on; it was a message. A message that I was seen, that my interests were valued, that I had people in my corner. When I played well, I searched for my dad’s signature thumbs-up or listened for my mom’s overly enthusiastic cheer. Those small moments built a deep-seated confidence that carried over into other areas of my life. They showed me I could count on them. That consistency made me feel secure in ways I didn’t appreciate until later.
The Impact Lasts a Lifetime
A child who sees their parents in the stands grows up knowing they are supported. That confidence carries over into school, friendships, and eventually their careers. It teaches them that effort is valued, that commitments are honored, and that they are never alone. Even if they don’t express it now, they will remember it later. Showing up isn’t just about today’s game—it’s about building a lifetime of trust and encouragement.
Showing Up Matters More Than You Know
Parents, I know life is busy. I know work is demanding. And I know sometimes it feels like one game won’t make a difference. But trust me—it does. Even if your child shrugs it off, even if they say they don’t care, they do. If you can’t be at every game, try. Because while I don’t remember every birthday present I received or every meal I ate, I will never forget the sight of my parents walking into the gym, still in their work clothes, ready to support me.
It’s not just about basketball, soccer, or any other sport. It’s about showing them that their efforts matter. It’s about making sure they never question whether they are important to you. Your presence today builds the foundation for their confidence tomorrow. The cheers may fade, but the feeling of knowing you were there will last forever.
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