Dear Avery,
You are almost 12 now and just got a new phone. I can’t believe it. Texting with you has become a shock of “wow, she isn’t a kid anymore” and “wow, this is so cool that we can have these quick chats.” The first texts we shared were about you trying out for a new sport, volleyball, and then hearing directly from you “I made the team!”. I smiled very big when I read that.
You tried out for something you don’t have much experience in. You had fun during the tryouts, AND you made the team. I’m so proud of you for all of that. Keep trying new things and see what feels right for you.
I, too, played volleyball in middle school. While this wasn’t a natural sport for me, I still had so much fun. We had a rag-tag team made up of all of my friends. We had nicknames on the back of our jerseys. Mine was “precious” – ha! I don’t remember why that was given to me, but that word seemed to stick with me throughout my life. Needless to say, I don’t remember if we had a winning record or not… but we did have FUN. We laughed, we cheered, and we bonded even more. Sports can do that for you. Even if you aren’t the best at it (which I’m sure you will be much better than I was…), enjoyment of the team comradery, the ups and the downs that will come with it, and the satisfaction in accomplishing something.
Middle school isn’t always people’s favorite time of school years when they look back, but it was for me. I loved my teachers, had a ton of pride in my school and had a really incredible group of friends. Yes, they are the awkward years of young love, getting your period, and extra brattiness towards your siblings being a weird rite of passage… but man, it treated me well. I look back fondly at those years… and I also laugh because of how awkward I was in social settings, but I learned a lot about myself and gained confidence while playing sports.
While I was a passionate defensive basketball player at heart, volleyball was met with humor and fun. And I’m thankful for that. I hope it brings you all that you need it to bring you. With your height (you are taller than me now!), you are sure to be a great blocker, at the very least. So go have fun and kick butt!
Can’t wait to watch you shine, Aves. And keep the texts coming. I want to hear about ALL the things.
With love,
Aunt Megs
With Love, Aunt Megs 
Great post on celebrating achievements! While this focuses on traditional sports, do you see a future for esports following a similar path for young gamers who make their mark on competitive teams? Esports are booming in the UK, and some parallels could be drawn for parents to navigate and celebrate. Would be interesting to hear your thoughts!
Whatever makes you happy and brings you passion — so yes!!