OUTSIDE THE HUDDLE

Life in a relationship with a football coach is anything but ordinary. Long hours, stressful situations, and the looming thought that at the end of the season he could be up and gone to another city, state, and team.

It's not an easy job for them and it's not an easy job for those who love them. But when you love them, it is more than worth it.

The lifestyle we have adapted to the past couple years is one very few understand and is still difficult to personally figure out. It is one that lacks support for the women involved. Because of this I will be starting a monthly (in off season, biweekly during the season) segment called "OUTSIDE THE HUDDLE." I will talk with other coaches families, provide tips for getting through the trying times, and fun ideas to help support the coach you love during the season.

I had the pleasure recently of speaking with Jill Freeze. Her husband Hugh Freeze is the head coach of Ole Miss. The couple has three young girls. She is my role model for what it means to be a positive light in my coaches life. She is strong in her faith and attributes Coach Freeze's quick success to the Lord.

Three positive tips she gave for loved ones of football coaches--

"We choose each day whether we are going to be a helpmate or a hinderer in his endeavor."

"The more you can be a part of what he does, the easier it is to sacrifice the time and energy he is away from you."

"Pray a lot. Serve where you can. Love as much as you can. Be willing to live by WIT. Whatever It Takes."

I look forward to sharing this part of my life through OUTSIDE THE HUDDLE. I hope it can be a positive outlet for those seeking fellowship in the football community.