In 2021, I had the privilege of being nominated as the team mom for Freehold High’s football team because of my son Nick who was back then a sophomore player on the team. This role came as a torch-passing moment for me, transitioning from being a cheer mom as my daughter Gianna graduated high school. The year was a rollercoaster, with the challenges of being a "two-sport mom" during the COVID-19 pandemic, but it was also a year of remarkable growth, shared experiences, and unforgettable lessons that I'm happy to share today.

Lesson 1: Family is Always First

The most valuable lesson I've learned as a football mom is that family should always come first. Nothing matters more to me than giving my kids the best life possible. The countless hours spent at practices, games, and events are all worth it when I see my children happy and fulfilled. My career in sales and the leadership skills I've developed over the years have uniquely prepared me for the role of a team mom, but it's the love and dedication to my family that drive me forward.

Lesson 2: Building Strong Teams

My journey as a football mom allowed me to apply my professional leadership skills to build a strong team off the field. After officially becoming the head team mom for Freehold Township Football, I took on the responsibility of securing sponsorships. This taught me the importance of teamwork and networking, not just in business but also in the community.

Lesson 3: Organizational Skills

In my role as a football team mom, I've honed my organizational skills. I've successfully organized banquets, scheduled events, and coordinated parents to volunteer for team activities. These experiences have reinforced the importance of structured planning and clear communication, skills that have been invaluable not only in football but also in my everyday life.

Lesson 4: Balancing Act

My son Nick, a high school senior now, has shown me the importance of balance. Juggling sports, academics, and even part-time jobs is no easy feat, and his dedication inspires me every day. As a mom, I've learned to support and encourage him in finding the right equilibrium between his various responsibilities. It's a skill that I believe will serve him well throughout his life.

Lesson 5: Prioritizing Moments that Matter

One of the most poignant lessons I've learned is the value of being present for moments that matter. In September, my son Nick's game was moved to the same night as my high school class reunion, for which he was set to DJ. I had been planning the reunion for over a year, and it was a difficult decision, but as a football mom, I couldn't bear to miss a game where my son was the captain. It was a bittersweet choice, but it reaffirmed the importance of being there for my children's significant moments.

As a football mom, I've embraced various roles, from cheer mom to head team mom, and I've learned invaluable lessons along the way. Family is my top priority, and my professional skills have seamlessly transferred to my role as a team mom. Building strong teams, honing organizational skills, finding balance, and prioritizing significant moments are all essential aspects of this journey.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of my son's football experience, and I hope these lessons resonate with parents and fellow team moms. Our children's happiness and growth are the greatest rewards, and I'm excited to continue supporting all my children through any such journey they choose.