Saturday, 2 November 2013

Family of Referees - A Tribute to My Dad

The March Family Referees
Wally, Richie, and Chase March - Soccer Referees

My dad was a soccer referee when I was a kid. I used to run up and down the sidelines with a flag in my hand to help him out. My brother and I often served as his linesmen and it was a lot of fun.

I wanted to be just like my dad, so I earned my referee certification. This photo is from the first game I ever officiated. There I am with my whistle. I was only 11 years old.

I was nervous and proud to be out on the field that day. It was awesome having my dad and brother as linesmen for my first time at centre-field.

My dad passed away this week and I wanted to honour and remember him in a meaningful way. This is only one of a million good memories that we had together.

I really don't know what I am going to do without him. I leaned on him for everything. He was always a good listener and offered the best advice.

It's only been two days and I already miss him like crazy. Tomorrow, is the memorial service. He wanted it to be simple, short, and sweet. I'll be officiating once again. I just hope I can keep it together and send him off on a good note in front of family and friends. He deserves that.

I will be paying tribute to him over the course of the month here on the blog.

Rest in Peace Walter Earl March. You will be missed!
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4 comments:

  1. Hilary Melton-Butcher2 November 2013 at 07:40

    Hi Chase .. I am so sorry to read this - he obviously meant tons to you .. and made your family life one bowl of cherries.

    This is great post to read .. and it's lovely to hear how close you were to him and him to you and your brother .. being a good listener, being there and offering sensible advice - frankly are the thing we all love and need.

    I do feel for you .. and I'm sure your dedication and 'refereeing' at his Memorial Service will be the best way for you to say goodbye ... he will be with you for a long time and always there for you in your thoughts ...

    Rest in Peace Walter Earl March .. and with thoughts for the coming days for Chase March ... I'll be thinking of you all .. Hilary

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  2. Chase March2 November 2013 at 21:31

    Hi Hilary,

    Thank you for the thoughtful comment. Much appreciated!

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  3. Unknown8 November 2013 at 22:28

    Hi Chase,

    Your dad is greatly missed and it's only been shortly over a week since he passed.

    Your dad was a smart man and liked helping anyone he met.

    Like I told you Wednesday morning when I saw you...PLEASE don't be a stranger.

    I'm a good listener, remember you always have your friends and family and your dad's friends you can always talk to.

    Take care...Chase...and keep in touch.

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  4. Chase March9 November 2013 at 22:40

    Hi Donna,

    Thanks a lot! I really appreciate that.

    ReplyDelete