Future For Football is an initiative of the National Football Foundation, created to highlight the lessons and values that football imparts. Get involved and sign up to play today by visiting Future for Football for resources, a League Locator tool, and much more.
My family is really into football. Like, really into football.
Unfortunately, our oldest son, Kohlton, is unable to play most sports because he was diagnosed with soft tissue cancer when he was two years old. Due to the damage from his tumor and over ten years of chemotherapy, we did not feel comfortable letting him try out for high school football, even though he really wanted to.
Because of his medical history, countless doctor appointments, infusions, relapses, homeschooling, and days of feeling awful, Kohlton has missed out on having close-knit friendships. He has longed for great friends and the chance to play sports.
So, when he started high school and the Milton High School football coach learned of his situation, he found a role for Kohlton and welcomed him onto the team as their manager.
But it’s been more than I anticipated.
I initially thought Kohlton would just wear a shirt and be able to say he was part of the football team. I was wrong. The team and coaches have gone above and beyond for him. He attends practices, works out with the team, and goes to games alongside them. He is truly part of the community.
The players and coaches include him in everything.
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Football Has Become Like a Family
Recently, when a classmate was picking on Kohlton, his football buddies stepped in to protect him. It is heartwarming to see what football has done for my boy. He has become so outgoing now and loves every aspect of it.
Thanks to football, he is truly thriving!
Football has broadened his world. I’m thrilled to see him involved, but what truly makes me happy is watching the lifelong friendships he’s forming. Whenever you see him on the field, you’ll notice the constant smile on his face.
Football has transformed his life for the better. He no longer wants to stay at home. On days when he has his infusion, Kohlton rushes to get back to the field. And he eagerly anticipates “Thursday Night Lights” (JV football night) every week.
>>Find football resources and more through Future for Football and the National Football Foundation.<<
Football Means So Much More
A couple of years ago, football was just a game that we enjoyed watching. Now, it means so much more to us.
It’s seeing my boy serious yet still joking with his friends on the sidelines.
It’s watching him help his teammates, fetching water or whatever they need.
It’s understanding how much it pains him when he’s sick and can’t make a game.
It’s seeing his little brothers meeting new people and having a blast in the stands.
It’s savoring the smell of nachos, hotdogs, hamburgers, and cheesy fries.
It’s bribing my kiddos to stay close with a ring pop from the concession stand on the way out.
It’s me meeting new people and getting out of my comfort zone.
Yes, staying up late and rushing to get everyone to bed at the night’s end can be exhausting, but every bit of it is worth it because of what football has done for our son and family. Having Kohlton on the Milton High School football team is shaping him into an amazing young man.
Football teaches him to be selfless, work as a team, believe in possibilities, be a good sport whether winning or losing, and so much more.
What Kohlton Means to Football
Kohlton’s coaches say his presence has transformed the team’s perspective. They now see someone who would give anything to play but can’t physically do so. His dedication teaches the team to be grateful and appreciate their ability to play. Having Kohlton on the team motivates them to study harder, take high school more seriously, and savor every moment.
Cancer may have taken a lot from Kohlton, but football has given him so much more.
Join a football league! Use the Future For Football league locator to find a football league in your area and sign up today.
