Tanner's Football

Tanner is carrying on the traditional #64 for the Terry family

Tanner is playing on the freshman football team this year. When he first found out he was pretty upset. He worked hard all summer going up early every morning to lift weights. So he felt like it was kind of a kick in the gut. But as it turns out he is playing both ways and only sits out for about three plays of the game. And the best part is that he is now the kicker for the team. And he really does a good job at it. The first time he kicked the ball went straight and for about 40 yards. Everyone in the stands was shocked and said, "Was that Tanner Terry?" Its funny how something so simple as the kick off doesn't seem like that big of a deal until it is your kid who is doing it. Then it becomes the best part of the game. And for sure it has been for this team, this season. They have been spanked pretty bad on most of their games. In fact during his last game he kicked a "touch back", which to the football illiterate, like me, is when the kicked ball stops past the end zone. Tanner said this was the greatest feeling ever! Too bad they don't give any points for it.

Tanner is also playing nose guard and is pretty frustrated because the coaches tell the line to just "make a pile." Meanwhile the other team is going around the ends and running all the way for a touchdown. Then of course it is the line's fault. But at least he is getting a lot of playing time. He even played one quarter with the JV last week. And so far the weather has been perfect for being a spectator, which is the most important thing for me.

As proud as I am for his hard work at football, I am even more proud that he is currently getting a 3.8 GPA. He has done this all on his own without any pushing, screaming, ranting or raving from Mom. He has finally figured out that just doing the work and doing it on time makes a big difference. He really is a smart kid if he just does the work. Now he is really stuck. I will expect nothing less from him for the rest of his high school career.