I took my children swimming when they were under 2 years old. I would shake and shiver on their behalf on the sidelines, the coach relegated me to the bleachers, and then I was banished to the car park entirely. They performed better without looking for Mommy’s wet eyes. I learned my lesson. Fast forward to two years ago, they joined a 6-sports academy (all sports must be done until they are 13). I told the boys once you pass the gates, Coach is the authority, I don’t have a say till you’re done 3 hours later. I became the quiet sideline Mom. My favourite was when Babylon Boys were sent to the Mtaa (Kayole) to play a basketball match. Walicharazwa vilivyo, my son asked me why they lost, yet they had practiced. I said, ‘Drive can’t be taught, you must crave it and fight for it.’