Today is my older brothers 42nd birthday, and after talking with him it left me teary eyed. It reminded me of how close I came to losing him 9 years ago, multiple times. It doesn't feel that long ago, it feels like it was just yesterday. He's a huge reason why I fell in love with soccer and how it shaped me. We grew up on limited means...you see the pic on the left? Well that was a mustard yellow jersey with dark green socks....and no-named brand sneakers...not cleats...sneakers. However, out of that experience I can still remember I played with a girl named Mary who befriended me regardless of my off brand sneakers. Kindness is never forgotten.
A few weeks ago I attended a USWNT game in Chattanooga...only 2 hours away from Nashville. The day before we went down for practice, we got field passes through my US Soccer membership. Now keep in mind, I didn't know anything about this team before the world cup. After 7 games, you would've thought I was a fan for years. There's something about soccer that is so beautiful that just encapsulates you. I brought a friend of mine down for the practice and we both had an absolute blast. Who wouldn't have a blast with balls slinging past you at 90 mph+. The game however I went to alone, and I got a VIP pack through US Soccer for that which I NEVER do. I guess because I've been on the other side of those things for years that I never thought I'd actually buy one. That game was a whirlwind of emotions because of everything that happened, but what I remember mostly is how much I felt alive before/during/after that game. I forgot the relationship I had with soccer for so many years. When I gave up the game to pursue computers, I forgot the joy that came it. Remember how I said I never purchase VIP experiences, the only reason I did was because a very close friend and my mom talked me into it. I remember my mom saying "Kelly, this would've been the team you would've played with, you've drempt of being near that trophy for years, you can make up the money easily. When did you start caring about how much something costs??"
I never planned to own a company, it literally fell into my lap and I just had the guts to run with it. It's because of Go Big that I've been able to support US Soccer, so I feel it's my job as a supporter to give back. I can't go into details yet, but just know we will be helping in various ways. I also want to thank those that help us support the USWNT, we're able to pay it forward because of you.
I'm going to continue to promote women's soccer as much as I can because I believe that this can grow and become something greater than what people think. I believe in the players and club teams, and I believe in the impossible to become possible. Why? Because I've seen the "impossible" become possible. My brother was never supposed to wake up from his coma....but not only did he wake up, he made a full recovery. My faith exists because God has proved himself over and over. even before my brothers accident.
In my head, I'm still that awkward 7 year old in a mustard yellow jersey, green socks and sneakers. However, because of my clients I've become stronger, confident, and appreciative. I can't explain how much joy it gives me to know I'm given the opportunity to make someones day better. I get the sweetest texts after I complete a run for the night stating their appreciation. It makes me very aware that I'm doing exactly what I need to be doing. I'll be there in February, cheering on the USWNT as they play for their spot in the Olympics in TX :) This is only the beginning and I can't wait to see what happens next.
