I have been spending some of this unexpected free time looking back through old photographs. I came across these images from Jackson Academy football that were captured a number of years ago. They were part of a series of images of football that I had shot on black and white film. This first photograph immediately reminded me how difficult it is for an athlete waiting to get back in the game. I have spent a lot of time on the sidelines with athletes wishing they were in the game. Some were offensive players just waiting on the defense to come off the field. Others were special team players preparing for their time on the field. Many more were just waiting until they were old enough, strong enough or fast enough to earn a starting spot on the team.
I have heard coaches explain to players that there are lessons to be learned from sitting on the bench. Lessons that far too many of us are learning right now. Who would have imagined that the majority of the people in our country would be asked to sit on the bench for a while? It has created some unusual challenges for a number of us. I am going to share some of the observations I have made photographing sports from the sidelines over the years. Advice given to players from coaches and how it might relate to our current situation.
First of all, pay attention to the game. Be ready when your time comes to get back in the game. The rules change nearly everyday and we need to clearly understand them and do our part. Secondly, support the players that are in the game right now. Essential businesses and healthcare workers are facing new and unique challenges. It is our duty to cheer them on and encourage them while they are in the game. The time will come when we can do more.
Celebrate every victory and lift each other up along the way. You are not alone in this fight. Take care of the people around you that are out of the game right now. Find a way to support small businesses that need your help. As a small business, find creative ways to be there for the people that have supported you through the years. The final thing I want to share with you is something I heard a coach say to a player from the opposing team during a really close game. The player looked over at the coach and the coach simply said, “Yep, we’re still here”. As if to say, the game is not over and we are in this fight until the end.