There are moments in sports that should bring an entire community together. A playoff game is one of them.
Earlier this week at a Union High girls soccer match, the Lady Spartans were hosting a postseason game, an accomplishment that deserves recognition. For a program that has faced struggles in past years, simply reaching that point should have been celebrated by the entire community.
Instead, the stands were nearly empty.
That was hard to see.
This isn’t about one high school or one sport; it is something that has become noticeable across the county. Whether soccer, basketball or even football, attendance seems to be steadily decreasing, even when teams are having successful seasons or playing meaningful games.
What makes it most disappointing is that the athletes still give everything they have.
Those kids are out there sweating, hustling, competing and representing their schools with pride. They spend countless hours practicing after school, lifting weights, conditioning, traveling and sacrificing time just for the opportunity to play the sport they love. For many of them, sports is more than a game. It’s an outlet, a passion and a source of confidence.
One of the greatest feelings a young athlete can experience is looking into the stands and seeing support from the people they love.
There is something powerful about hearing a mother yell, “That’s my baby.” There is something special about a father standing proudly near the fence, cheering after every play. There is something unforgettable about a grandparent smiling in the bleachers while wearing school colors and supporting a child chasing a dream.
Those moments matter.
Sometimes that support becomes the extra motivation a player needs to keep pushing. Sometimes it gives them confidence after a mistake. Sometimes it becomes the memory they carry with them long after their playing days are over.
Participating is supposed to be fun, teach lessons about teamwork, perseverance and discipline. But playing sports is also supposed to create memories between families and communities.
If nobody shows up, that simply doesn’t happen.
Yes, life is busy. People work long hours. Families have responsibilities; everyone understands that. But if there is one obligation that should remain near the top of the list, it should be supporting our children and the things they care about.
These opportunities do not last forever.
One day, the uniforms are folded up for the final time and the lights go out on that final game, with no more seasons left to play, left to watch.
Parents, family members and communities should not wait until senior night or championship week to decide to show support.
Show up now.
Show up for the regular-season games. Show up for the playoff games. Show up when the team is winning and when the team is struggling. Show up because those young athletes deserve to know their efforts matter.
Empty bleachers speak volumes … loudly.
Hopefully, moving forward, our communities can speak louder, and longer, with their presence.