Dad at Play
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Definition
The conversion of a casual family game into an organized sporting event by the arrival of one father. Common features include a warm-up, live commentary and rules clarified immediately after a disputed point.
Field Observation
The game begins with a ball, two loosely defined teams and somebody saying, "Just for fun." Dad agrees while stretching one calf against the patio step. Within minutes, he is calling the action in the third person, explaining the boundary near the flowerpot and requesting a replay of a point witnessed by everyone present. Nobody remembers appointing an official. Dad is already consulting himself.
Common Signs
- Asks whether anyone is keeping score, then supplies the score.
- Provides his own introduction before taking a turn.
- Explains a technique while demonstrating a completely different technique.
- Calls "Last one" with enough flexibility to accommodate a comeback.
Warning Signs
- The warm-up now has a warm-up.
- A flowerpot has become a disputed boundary marker.
- Dad refers to something that happened six minutes ago as "earlier in the season."
- The rules committee has reached a unanimous decision. Dad announces it.
Typical Dad Defense
"I'm just making sure everybody has fun correctly."
Dad-a-Pedia Note
Dad may remember the final score for years. The kids will probably remember his commentary, the questionable replay and the way he stayed outside for one more round. Years later, nobody can agree who won. Everyone can still do Dad's commentary.
Archive Classification
Category: Recreational Dad Behavior
Risk Level: An unscheduled rematch
Known Side Effect: Family games acquiring a commentary track
Related Products
Dad at Play shirts: Soccer, Football and Baseball.