A hectic schedule might seem overwhelming to some, but Team Parent of the Week, Danielle Hardy, from Baltimore, MD, relishes the challenge.
Our happily married and always-on-the-move team mom juggles schedules for both of her children, Jawan and Shakyra. Entering her senior year in high school, Shakyra, who recently underwent knee surgery to repair a torn ACL, will continue her efforts on the track, as captain of the women’s team next spring. Hardy shared that the family was thrilled to hear the good news and they look forward to supporting Shakyra throughout her final high school season. Younger son Jawan, also a track and field athlete, begins 3rd grade in the fall and continues to grow and enjoy his youth sports experiences.
Hardy wrote that her life could be looked at as “rather hectic”, but she loves every moment of it.
In particular, Jawan has taken nicely to playing football for the Greater Baltimore Youth Football League, where Hardy is a the proud team mom for the Overlea Orangemen 6-8-year-old team. Volunteering as team mom, allows Hardy more insight to her son’s development and provides a unique outlet for her to help other kids have fun and succeed in a social environment.
One of the ways she provides a supporting tone for her players is by sharing positive blogs. In her most recent post she wrote, “What is the measurement of one's success? In my opinion, being surrounded by those that love us, nurture us and accept us.”
When she’s not sitting on the sidelines or on the stadium bleachers cheering on the players, Hardy is a year round full-time college student. As if that wasn't a full plate, she is also vice president of a national construction trade association, which keeps her on the go, attending meetings with various legislators, association members and traveling to various events.
Team Mom Hardy’s Best Experience
Hardy writes that after a rough day, she was just sitting on the field with her eyes closed meditating when she felt someone tap her on the shoulders. When she opened her eyes, the entire Orangeman team was surrounding her and began singing Happy Birthday. "It warmed my heart," wrote Hardy.
Hardy's recommendations for other Team Moms
Utilize FREE services. (like Weplay!)
Be organized. Plan ahead, keep records, take the job seriously. It’s a privilege to be able to give back.
Have fun.
