Football, the Cherished Family Tradition

Disclaimer: 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.

Football has always been more than just a game for our family; it’s a cherished tradition that brings us all together. I grew up with a football loving dad and while I was growing up, I was surrounded by football fanatics—my dad and uncles were practically glued to the TV every Sunday, cheering on their favorite teams with unmatched enthusiasm. We watched countless games together, and those moments are some of my fondest childhood memories.

I vividly remember the excitement and the camaraderie, the way the house would buzz with energy whenever a big game was on. My dad would scream at the television and we (the kids) would get so excited and join in! We also went to many UM games and we all learned to love the sport.

Our kids have had the same experience, as my husband who is coincidentally a huge fan of the same team my dad loves {and I grew up loving} makes sure of! (University of Miami- []_[] go canes!)

They know the rules and get really into it too! We love going to games and watching it on tv as a family. We even have been known to go to local restaurants to watch games and hang out with friends! It is always a good time and a lively atmosphere.

But it wasn’t just about watching football; it was a full-blown experience. We attended games whenever we could, and there was something magical about being in the stadium, feeling the roar of the crowd, and sharing that excitement with our family. We lived in University of Miami gear and as I became an adult, the only gifts I ever get my dad are related to UM.

We are a football family. While our two youngest play on competitive baseball teams, they play a lot of football together at home (we have 3 boys).

Now, as a mom, I see football as a fantastic way to bond with my own kids.

My husband is just as big of a fan as my dad. My oldest son got really into football as a kid and collected football cards and even played flag football a few years ago. It was incredible to see him develop a love for the game too. He learned so much about teamwork, perseverance, and having fun. This year, my little one is starting flag football, and I can’t wait to see him out on the field, running around and enjoying the game just like his big brother once did.

Football is more than just a sport for us; it’s a family affair. It’s about the laughter, the playful rivalries, and the shared excitement. Whether we’re watching a game on TV, cheering at the stadium, or supporting our kids on the field, football has a special way of bringing our family closer. It’s a fun, lighthearted tradition that we all look forward to, and I’m grateful for the joy it brings into our lives.

Football brings fundamental life skills that kids learn by being a part of team sports, the community that football fans have in each other and the love of the game that is passed down from generation to generation.

Life Skills

Every position has a purpose and to execute a play successfully, each individual needs to fulfill their responsibility.

• Working Together– a skill that’s valuable both on and off the field, teamwork helps children to become accustomed to working with others
• Work Ethic– the strong work ethic players develop is a vital asset they can carry with them for the rest of their lives
• Following Directions– taking instruction and following through, valuable skills for sports and in school, at home and for future jobs
• Dedication- through their dedication to the team and the hard work that they put in individually, kids understand that value of this and how it pays off
• Being Responsible and Accountable– not only to yourself but your team (being part of something bigger than just yourself as an individual) and experiencing the benefits and rewards of the team mentality

Physical Activity

Football is a fast-moving game with a lot of variety and provides lots of physical health benefits for children. Players run, jump, quickly change direction, and stop and start, which improves cardiovascular health.

It is a physically demanding game that provides an opportunity for players to improve their hand-eye coordination, agility, strength, speed, stamina, and overall cardiovascular endurance.

Sportsmanship

Respect, fair treatment of others, empathy, and a good attitude are all imperative to players on a football team. Developing good sportsmanship helps kids learn how to win humbly and lose gracefully and when the kids know they all have each other’s back, they feel confident.

Socialization

With dozens of players working towards one common goal, the friendships kids develop with each other is immeasurable. This camaraderie is a lifelong social skills benefit for children, as they understand the importance of developing close relationships built off of trust and doing your part.

Self-Confidence

Kids who play football learn the importance of personal control and being disciplined with everything that they do. Whether it is overcoming adversity after a turnover or pushing through a tough situation, children often develop mental toughness they may never have discovered otherwise. Football players develop leadership skills as part of the organized team setting and learn to believe in themselves in those positions. They learn to deal with adversity and become resilient.

This article was sponsored by Future For Football, an initiative by the National Football Foundation to promote and celebrate the game at all levels. 

Future For Football was 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. They have an in-depth resource section, which helps with information about equipment, tips for better play, and even a league finder to help you locate a league in your area.

Follow them on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. 

All opinions are those of Orlando Mom Collective and Eryn Vargo, author of this article. For more information, visit Future for Football.

Football is definitely a family sport that creates valued family traditions!