How did your mother impact your sports journey?

In fact, she was right there for pretty much all of my sporting events. She drove me to soccer practice and games, and brought orange slices for the team when it was her turn. She was not only at every baseball game I played in, but she always volunteered to be the scorekeeper, because she loved being part of the process. Her interest in tennis helped spawn my high school career in the sport, and she was at some of my biggest matches.

And, now, as I continue my career in sports, she’s still my biggest fan. She watches our podcasts live, even if she doesn’t know exactly what we’re talking about. She donates during Movember, and even took the opportunity to write a story right here on Pride of Detroit. She brags about me to anyone she comes across who mentions that they’re a Lions fan. She’s already told me how excited she is that the Lions will play near her in Miami this year. And she doesn’t roll her eyes [within my view, at least] when I have to step away from family time to record a podcast or write an article.

And I still get to share some special sports memories with her, too. She was right there with me watching me tear up when the Lions won their first division title in 30 years a few years ago. We experienced our first live professional tennis experience at last year’s Miami Open. And whenever the Lions finally make the Super Bowl, I’m pretty sure my mom is going to find a way to get there (especially if it’s in Vegas).

While I wouldn’t be a Lions fan without the passion of my dad, my general love for sports would be almost certainly gone without the support and love from my mother every step of the way. Love you, mom.