#askEV
A couple of weeks ago I was visiting with Amanda Forester of Richmond GK Academy in preparation for guesting on her podcast 'Coffee and Leadership with Pros'. (You should find those podcasts on Spotify and listen to them--excellent insights from loads of people)
We were, of course, discussing Covid-19 and the effect it is having across the nation in all aspects of life. I told her that I felt it was like being in a match where you're losing 5-0 and there's still another half to go! Dispiriting to say the least, and we've all been there. But now, some 14 days later, I feel it's more like trying to hang on to a 2-1 lead, away from home, with about 25 minutes left. And again, we've all been there. We know that we're going to ultimately win the game, but we're going to have to "weather the storm".
Every match has a period of time where the GK and the defenders have to buckle down and keep the opposition at bay. Sometimes this onslaught lasts for about 10 minutes, sometimes you have to survive for the last 25 minutes protecting a one goal lead. And, as GKs, we've all been there. To do this, everyone has to recognize the challenge, be on the same page, and be willing to sacrifice and work together to get to the final result--a 'W'. It is never easy, and it is not always possible--sometimes you concede a late goal and now we have to settle for a draw or go to extra time. But, as a back 4 or 5, we GKs have to lead and direct and solidify our resolve to "weather the storm" and seal the Goal.
Often, sport serves as a metaphor for life. Today is such a time. As a nation, we are faced with a huge challenge. We have to resolve ourselves to stay steady, face the situation head-on, see the prize on the horizon, and do what it takes to succeed. Just like in the game, we know that we can win, we know that we must win, but we have some work to do. We know that we must win. We must hold-fast and be unwavering in our approach until that final whistle blows and we've won!
So, be resolute, be vigilant, and be kind. Keep your social distance, wash your hands, (while you're at it, wash your gloves and save your parents some money) don't touch your face, cough into your elbow, and stay home!
May the ground beneath your dive be soft. May your goalposts be 3 feet wide. May the other team shoot right at you.
(Thanks for the photo, Google!)
All the Best--EV
