Le parcours inspirant de Lo Van Pham pour devenir arbitre de la NFL
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Childhood in America: A Gifted Opportunity
- The Escape from Conflict: Seeking Refuge in America
- Discovering American Football
- From Peewee Football to the NFL
- A Tribute to a Lost Loved One
- Nurturing a Passion for Sports in the Next Generation
- Life Lessons Learned on the Field
- The Importance of Teamwork and Friendship
- Gratitude for the Privilege of Being Asian-American
🏈 Childhood in America: A Gifted Opportunity
Growing up in America is an incredible gift that should not be taken for granted. As an Asian child, I had the opportunity to simply be a kid, enjoying the pleasures of childhood without the burdens that youth in other parts of the world often face. In Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries, children are expected to work from an early age and often face pressures to join the military or adhere to certain propaganda. However, being in America allowed me to become part of a society and culture where I could just be myself.
🏞 The Escape from Conflict: Seeking Refuge in America
My journey to America was not without its challenges. Born in Laos during a time of turmoil, my family had to flee as the advancing communist armies threatened our safety. We left everything behind, including our home and grandparents, out of fear that the Communists might come and take my father away. The path to find refuge was treacherous, with countless mountains to climb and nights spent sleeping in fields without food or drink. Eventually, we arrived at a refugee camp in Thailand, where we eagerly awaited the opportunity to start a new life in the United States.
🏈 Discovering American Football
In 1979, my family finally made it to America, and it was here that I was introduced to the sport that would change my life forever: football. I vividly remember watching the Dallas Cowboys and being captivated by their skills and accomplishments during the 70s and early 80s. It was during this time that football became a constant presence in my life. Despite my parents' initial objections due to my need to learn English, I couldn't shake my desire to play and be a part of this uniquely American sport.
🏈 From Peewee Football to the NFL
My journey in football began at the grassroots level, answering an ad for peewee football officials. The guy I called was thrilled to have my interest and invited me to come and learn how to referee. However, on the day I showed up, he was nowhere to be found. Undeterred, I took matters into my own hands and officiated three games that Saturday afternoon all by myself. This experience ignited a passion within me, and I continued to immerse myself in the world of football, working my way up from Texas High School Football to eventually officiate in the Big 12 and the NFL.
🎗️ A Tribute to a Lost Loved One
Throughout my journey in football, I have faced countless challenges, including the devastating loss of my husband. Despite the hardships, I find solace in the fact that I can honor his memory by continuing to contribute to the fabric of America's game. He would be happy to see me following my passion and making a difference in the sport that we both loved.
🏈 Nurturing a Passion for Sports in the Next Generation
One of my greatest joys now is passing on my love for sports to my own children. I want them to experience the same sense of excitement and camaraderie that I felt growing up. It's important to remind them that being Asian-American in this country is a privilege, and we should never take it for granted.
🏈 Life Lessons Learned on the Field
Sports have taught me valuable lessons that extend far beyond the playing field. They have taught me the importance of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I strive to instill these values in my children and help them understand that life is full of ups and downs, but it is how we respond to these challenges that defines us.
🤝 The Importance of Teamwork and Friendship
One of the most significant aspects of participating in team sports is the opportunity to build lasting friendships and learn how to work together towards a common goal. Through sports, my teammates became my friends, and together we shared victories, defeats, and countless cherished memories.
🎉 Gratitude for the Privilege of Being Asian-American
Above all, I am grateful for the privilege of being Asian-American. Living in a country that offers endless opportunities and freedom is something that should be cherished. I am proud to be part of a diverse society, where I can pursue my dreams and contribute to the melting pot of cultures that make America so unique.
Highlights:
- Childhood in America allowed me to simply be a kid, free from burdens and expectations.
- Escaping conflict and finding refuge in America was a treacherous journey.
- Football became a passion that I couldn't resist, despite initial objections from my parents.
- From peewee football to officiating in the NFL, my love for the sport grew with each step.
- The loss of my husband inspired me to honor his memory by continuing to support football.
- Passing on my passion for sports to my children is a source of immense joy.
- Life lessons learned on the football field have shaped my character and resilience.
- Building friendships and working as a team have been integral to my sports experience.
- Gratitude for the privilege of being Asian-American and the opportunities it affords.
FAQ:
Q: How did being in America provide you with the opportunity to be a kid?
A: In America, children are not burdened with the expectations of work and responsibilities from an early age. They can simply enjoy their childhood and engage in activities that bring them joy.
Q: What challenges did you face when seeking refuge in America?
A: The journey to find refuge was filled with hardships, including navigating treacherous mountains and spending nights without food or drink. However, the hope of starting a new life in America kept us going.
Q: How did you get introduced to football?
A: While watching the Dallas Cowboys, I became captivated by the sport and developed a strong desire to play. Despite initial objections from my parents due to the need to learn English, my passion for football persisted.
Q: What was your journey like from peewee football to the NFL?
A: My journey in football began with answering an ad for peewee football officials. Despite the initial absence of the person I called, I took it upon myself to officiate games that day. This experience ignited a passion that led me to officiate at higher levels, eventually reaching the NFL.
Q: How do you pass on your love for sports to your children?
A: I remind my children of the privilege they have as Asian-Americans and the opportunities that are available to them. I encourage them to participate in sports and experience the joy of being part of a team.