Get on the Bus

We’re currently on the road for our first away game of the season. As I look around, I see the guys who made the trip. The guys on the bus. But earlier this morning, I spent time with another group: the ones still back home. The Developmental guys. The ones who aren’t on the depth chart yet. The ones who, for the first time in their lives, aren’t “the guy.” That’s a hard place to be. They’ve gone from top dog to scout team. From touching the ball every snap to holding a card and mimicking the other team. And here’s the truth: most of them are wondering if it’s worth it. That’s where we come in. As coaches, it’s our job to foster this process. To inspire them to keep showing up when the lights aren’t on. To remind them that their work still matters. To the team now, and to their own future.

Because the reality is, most rosters are decided in August. But careers are made in October and November, when the backups keep grinding, keep growing, and are ready when their shot comes. If we don’t pour belief into those kids, we risk losing them. But if we do? We keep them engaged, motivated, and developing into the players they’re capable of becoming. The starters may win today’s game. The developmental guys will decide where this program is a year from now. Keep the Fire Burning, Leech