Coaching volleyball has been both an incredible blessing and an intense challenge—sometimes simultaneously!

Blessings:
~I’m getting to know other teachers (coaches) and students from YISS.
~I’ve gotten to meet a number of parents.
~I go to YISS at least three times a week—but more often, I’m there every day.
~Mark and I are able to travel together to away games since he coaches the varsity boys.
~Mika has some time with other people who adore her. She is babysat by two upper school students who love playing with her.

Challenges:
~Anytime you build relationships, you risk conflict. By being more involved, I’ve made myself susceptible to offense, but it’s worth it!
~Catching the bus to school is difficult when carrying baby, bag, and stroller.
~The baby bump has restricted my physical involvement at practice, which is torture to my volleyball-loving soul.
~Responsibility—it’s a challenge even if it’s something good.
~The other coaches and I really want to be living witnesses of Christ even as we guide our players in this sport. We have to be intentional and sincere about our faith, daily.

The season is about half over now, and I’m already so grateful that I’ve been a part of this team. I’ve been able to see the girls improve their skills, their attitudes, and their togetherness. They’re learning discipline, sportsmanship, and encouragement. I’m learning too—through both the blessings and the challenges.