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An Open Letter

October 26, 2011 By
Dear Coach,
 
I wanted to take some time to introduce myself. I have been on your team for quite some time, but you have never really noticed me or who I really am. We are more of acquaintances than people that  truly know one another. Honestly, it is a bit of a shame since I am a real member of the team and, in my opinion, a very important part. I am the Long Snapper.
 
I am the one that volunteered when no else would, or could, play the position. I am the one that many of my teammates mocked for wanting to get better at it. I know it is not the most glamorous position and I know it doesn’t get any praise, but I also know it is very important to myself and the team. I know without me there are no extra points, no field goals and no punts. I know I’m important even if you don’t ever tell me. I know I am the one that started the play that makes you high five the kicker and walk right past me. I know my role and I know what goes along with it. I am the Long Snapper. 
 
I know you don’t know a lot about my position and I understand that since many don’t. I know you think you are doing your best by telling me to “just get the ball back there” but I would love it if you could really coach me. I mean think about it, can you imagine if you coached the running back the same way you did to me? Telling him to “just run it that way” while you pointed, probably wouldn’t be too affective. No, you go into detail. You learn, you study. You watch film. Did you ever think that you could do that for my position as well? Did you ever think about contacting my private coach (yeah, I have one and he is great) for some possible drills I could do at practice? Or did you just think I would take care of it and that I am someone you shouldn’t have to worry about? That’s kinda what I figured. I get it. I am the Long Snapper.
 
I am the one that goes to camps year round to perfect my craft. I am the one that gets to practice early or stays late to make sure everything goes as planned on game day. I am the one that works countless hours on my form at home to make sure all is just right for the team. I know I am dealing with milliseconds and one tiny little hiccup can ruin it all. I am the one that actually asks for extra reps at practice. How many of your other players do that?  I know everything has to be perfect. I am the Long Snapper. 
 
Please treat me with respect as I do to you. I answer with yes sir and no sir. I never degrade you or your position, and I hope you can do the same with me and mine. Major things have happened, and continue to happen, in the world of Long Snapping (actual scholarships and even a national award) and I really wish you would take notice.  I am very serious about my position and, with or without your help, I will continue to work harder than the next guy to be the best I can. I know that I will often be solo on my journey and I am willing to accept that. I am willing to work right and hard. I know my role. I know who I am.
 

I am the Long Snapper

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