Sometimes in the throes of youth and exuberance, the message we try to convey as coaches gets tangled in a web of attitudes and misunderstood intentions. Players, armed with the fiery confidence of youth, often think they know better. They challenge our methods, question our choices, and magnify our flaws. But it's not the strategies, the quirky attire, or even the missteps that define our efforts. It's something deeper, more visceral—it's about the heart of a coach. The realization might not strike immediately; sometimes, it takes years. But eventually, for many, there comes that quintessential light bulb moment when they understand that their coach's heart was always in the right place, sacrificing countless selfless hours, channeling a deep passion for lacrosse to genuinely better their lives.
Mickey-Miles Felton, a man of vibrant style and boundless energy, faced these challenges endlessly. His unique approach was often met with skepticism—errant glances and raised eyebrows were part of his daily fare. But if you're out there, Mickey, reading this, know that your lessons have transcended time and skepticism. I get it now, and I'm grateful.