Chasing Dreams

Today, as I sat in the stands at Navy watching my son work the game he loves, I was overwhelmed with pride. My eyes filled with tears — not because he’s on a big stage, but because of the man he’s become.

Braden has loved football since he was a kid. I remember when he started a blog just to write about the Dallas Cowboys. That same passion carried him through his high school playing days and later shaped the path he’s on today.

In college, what began as a part-time job turned into a calling. He started officiating simply to earn a little extra money, but his passion and love for the game quickly turned it into more than just work. That passion, coupled with his discipline and drive, soon moved him under the Friday night lights in Texas — no small thing. I’m so proud of the way he embraced the process, set goals, and stayed committed.

I’ll never forget the moment I watched him officiate at Angelo State, my Alma mater. Or seeing him work in front of 90,000 fans in Norman, OK. Last year I watched him call a bowl game with TCU, last week I saw him at West Point, and today at Navy. Each time, my pride swells — not because of the stage or the title, but because of who he is.

Braden knows his identity is not defined by football or by the whistle in his hand. He knows who he is in Christ, as a son, as a husband, as a friend. That firm foundation shapes the way he works — with integrity, attention to detail, and a passion for excellence. Those qualities make him a great official, but more importantly, they make him a man of character.

As I sat in the stands today, I thanked God for giving me the privilege of being his dad. I’m so proud of the way he lives his life and pursues his calling — on and off the field. I know he has big dreams ahead, with his eyes now set on Week 15, (he knows what that means.) but I’m already proud of him.

Let’s go, Braden. I believe in you.