By Krista Pirtle
Sports Writer
My love relationship with sports began when I was little, dressed in a Michael Jordan jersey seated on my dad’s lap. It has grown over the years as my dad has introduced me to different ones. I remember watching the Cowboys in the late 90’s, sharing the frustrations of my dad with the lack of athletic ability on the field. I remember fighting off sleep as I watched the Dallas Stars win the Stanley Cup in 1999. I remember my first Texas Rangers’ game and the excitement the atmosphere brought.
As time progressed, I not only watched these sports but played them as well. When I was five, I drug my oversized bat bag to my tee-ball games. It only took one game for my dad, and coach, to realize that I was purposefully missing the slow pitches so I could use the tee.
The older I got, the more I liked to play basketball. After games in high school, I would find my dad, who was usually sitting on his camera case taking pictures, and talk strategy and improvements.
It amused my dad and humored my mom when I would be in my cheerleading uniform for football games warming up the back-up quarterback instead of stretching.
As a whole, my dad was my coach throughout the years while my mom was always in the stands supporting me.
It would be hard to imagine participating in a sport without my parents there.
Sports provide a true bond with my family. If the Rangers win a big game, I can expect a phone call from my mom. If I watch something cool on ESPN, I call my dad.
Opening Day at the Ballpark in Arlington is a tradition in my family. Baseball is our favorite sport to watch, and my brother was born on Opening Day in 2000.
For students at Baylor, as their parents approach, they are cleaning their apartments and making shopping list. Before taking your family to Walmart, truly think about what they have done for you
Personally, I know I have taken my parents for granted many times, calling them when I need money for food or gas. As your parents arrive today, think about what all they have done for you.
For me, my parents raised me in the church. My dad baptized me, and my mom taught the “sweet jams” at vacation bible school.
God and sports are ties that bring my family together. As I spend time with them this weekend, I don’t need to focus on stocking my pantry. I need to enjoy the time I spend with them and thank them for what they’ve done for me.
