Living in a sporting town it is so easy to get caught up with the little things, but when we take a step back and watch for a minute it becomes obvious why sport is so important in a small town.
At some stage we have all been involved in a sport, whether it be playing on cold mornings, road trips to different venues, yelling from the sidelines or even writing about it.
Sport sets strong values for children to follow.
It teaches commitment, dedication, strength and resilience and is a big part of social networking and for the most part it's provides fun and happiness.
Like everything in life though it's not always bright and colourful.
It's that time of year where we have parents with little coaching experience raising their hand to help out and children putting a required set of skills to the test for the first time.
I often see and hear parents getting involved with the politics of sport.
Sometimes I think we forget what is important.
Coaches have to draw a fine line between winning games and being fair.
I believe sport is the one thing on this earth that is truly accepting of everyone.
It's doesn't matter how good you are, how tall you are, how fast you are, how strong you are or what nationality you are, there is bound to be a sport for you.
The disappointing thing is, I see and hear so many stories about people falling out of friendships because he said she said drama.
I'm sure this season will be much the same.
When I think of all the friends I've made around Victoria through sport I can't help but be grateful.
Grateful to my family for getting me involved at a young age, to my coaches who taught me everything and now to the players that allow me to teach them.
So next time you see fighting on the sidelines, cursing of an umpire or a coach, parents trying to get an edge over one another, think about the reasons why you are involved in sport.
I love smiles on faces and hope to see plenty around the Wimmera and beyond this football and netball season.
Congratulations to all the coaches and players that have been selected for this upcoming season.
Good luck everyone. Have fun, play fair
