More than a year ago, I encouraged my oldest son, Tyler, to go to college after graduating high school. “No need to do that,” he muttered. “I plan to just come back to the farm.”
I remember telling Tyler to keep his options open and that nobody regrets getting an education or learning something new.
In the meantime, Tyler continued working on the farm and playing football, both of which he enjoyed.
In the spring of 2021, during the COVID pandemic, Tyler started on the varsity high school football team. When the opposing team hiked the ball, a fire was lit underneath Tyler and he tackled the quarterback. Something he would do again and again and again.
The coaches and teammates slapped his helmet with praise. This made Tyler work harder. He rose early – to chore – then head to the gym early to run and lift before going to school. His performance on the field continued to excel. So did his behavior elsewhere. Interesting how that can work.
Fast-forward to his senior year, Tyler was selected as one of the team’s captains. He led with heart and integrity – the same qualities his father leads with at the farm. Interesting how that works.
Tyler would go on to become the most decorated football player for his team that year – All-State, Honor Roll; 1st Team All-Conference, leading tackler and selected to play in the Illinois Shrine Game. His father and I busted with pride. All the hard work paid off. All the years of not winning, but also not giving up, paid off. The emotions are indescribable.
The head coach hugged our son after he played his last football game. Tears were shed by all. His coach later told me that Tyler surprised him.
“If you had told me his freshman year, he would have been our leading tackler, I wouldn’t believe it,” his coach said. “If you told me he would be a captain, I wouldn’t believe it, but it was rewarding to see Tyler grow and develop.”
Truth be told, the DNA given to Tyler doesn’t pass on the trait of athleticism. At 6 foot 3 inches, and 200 lbs. though, Tyler gnawed his way to the top by illustrating the very same qualities demonstrated on the family farm. Hard work, teamwork, sacrifice and commitment. Show up. Work hard. No excuses. The same motto is showcased on farms all across this country.
Tyler just finished up his first semester at the University of Wisconsin – Platteville with honors. Because COVID allowed upper classman an additional year of eligibility, Tyler was ‘redshirted,’ along with 99% of the freshman on the team. He didn’t skip a beat. He still lifted weights. He still opened a book and studied and took his education seriously. I marvel at the maturity and drive my oldest son has illustrated. Then I look at my husband and realize that he too, has the same drive and takes the same seriousness and puts it into motion every single day on our family dairy farm.
Farmers, never underestimate the role model you are for your kids. Continue to show up, work hard and put your best foot forward. The younger generation is watching.
