To my brother who plays sports,

I went from almost never missing a game to now barely being able to make games. It’s what happened when I came to college.

Just because I’m not there, don’t think I’m not getting a constant play by play of the game. I text someone throughout the whole thing to see how you’re doing. I check after the game to make sure you weren’t hurt and find out the final score. I may not physically be there, but I’m there in spirit.

It doesn’t matter what anyone says. You’ll always be the best player on the field to me. It doesn’t matter if you messed up on that one play or didn’t make that basket. You’re my baby brother, and you’ll always be #1.

I may laugh it off when you get hurt, but I really do get concerned. I told mama you were fine when you broke your nose that time, but inside I was terrified. I laughed at the thought of you flying through the air to land right on your butt, but had you been hurt by it, I would have been there in a heartbeat.

I get excited to be able to watch you play. I’ve seen how much you’ve grown as a player and continue to grow. I tell everyone how you played. I’d never allow anyone to say you weren’t a good player. Because if anyone is going to mess with you, it’s going to be me.

I’ve learned more plays than most people have. I may not fully understand what you’re telling me, but I pretty much get it. I’ve learned to pick the plays out when I watch other sports teams. I know almost everything that’s happening during a game, mainly from you teaching me what everything is.

I know more warm up songs than I need to. I’m not one to listen to intense music to get into “work out mode,” but I know them if I wanted to. After all, you usually control the aux cord in my car.

I’m always going to tease you about your dreams of getting recruited by a big college to play sports. But, I have to pick on you for something. What else are big sisters for?

I’ve watched you grow. I remember when you were a tiny baby, a toddler, and in elementary school. I remember when the time came that I could no longer look down at you. I’ve been looking up at you for some time now, and the height difference just gets bigger and bigger. But, when I see you play, all I see is my little brother, who will always be my little brother.

I’ve made those late night games, driving you all over to practice, and sitting in the worst bleachers worth it. I wouldn’t do it if I wasn’t extremely proud of you.

Just remember, it doesn’t matter what the final score says. It doesn’t matter what anybody says. To me, you couldn’t have played any better. No matter what, I’ll always be your biggest fan.

Love,

Your Sister