Dear All (players, parents, coaches, staff),
Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the Lancashire Schools FA Organisation for the last 3 seasons, and for putting up with my poor attempts at making jokes and banter.
Things could easily have taken a turn for the worst following the 'awkward turtle moment' on that day in Skelmersdale, if you don't know the story - don't ask, but it didn't.
I've enjoyed the roller-coaster ride which I have been taken on, the ups, downs, and moments of feeling sick with emotions - times such as the semi final v Essex in 2013, Northern Counties Final 2015 and U14s penalty shoot out in the recent national final. Who knew football could do that to you?
3 seasons of being involved, 3 birthdays which have involved some sort of LSFA event. I doubt I'd have things many other way, with it all culminating to last Wednesday, my 21st and the National Finals - definitely a day to remember. The level of emotion from all involved, knowing the height of the occasion, the possibility of becoming double national champions and seeing the season's work all fall into place. I'd been certain for weeks that both age groups would win, and I'm glad I got to see it happen.
There have been high and low points, but I have genuinely enjoyed being around everyone and having my own moments which will live long in the memory. I don't do a lot, but being able to develop relationships and change perceptions has been great. Seeing players develop as people on and off the pitch, hearing of players moving into CoEs and being genuinely excited to go to matches and watch the level of football being played - I've turned into a fan, there is simply no other way to put it.
Last Wednesday provided me with the moment of my life, running onto the pitch as Lottie the Lion to be hugged by a number of U14s celebrating their win, that including a player who I didn't get on well with at the start of last season. Cheesey/ sappy yes, but sometimes it's the small moments like that which make all of the time put in worthwhile.
And so, my LSFA journey has finished on a high. I can only thank Mike for letting me be a part of the set up, an organisation which so closely replicates that of the club environment I used to be a part of as a kid. I'm sure his growing trophy collection only begins to cover the success the organisation has brought. To the other coaches/ officials who have allowed me to watch and learn from them, and again be a part of the team.
To the parents who have provided endless conversations and banter and taken an interest my own life as well as that with county sides. Late night conversations in Sheffield, bar talk in Surrey and singing at my last week - it is all very much appreciated.
Finally to the kids, there isn't too much to say other than thank you. I hope you've learnt something from me, whether that's from an inspirational story, a silly one - like the one about my only goal scoring header or from something else. I've never really been too worried about on-field matters, because I understand that football is a game to be enjoyed not endured, and that's important no matter who you play for or where.
Thank you to all involved again, my very best wishes for the new season and beyond.
#StrongerTogether
(Sassy/ Sass) Sarah
