One of the biggest problems dads have after they go through a divorce is keeping the relationship they have with their kids.
We all make promises that the relationships we have aren't going to change, but the fact is that they will, on some level.
They have to.
It's hard to keep things exactly the same when you don't have custody.
You don't see them in the morning as you go to work, they aren't there when you come home.
If you have your kids for only one weekend a month, no matter how open and close you are, there's almost always some distance there.
While this may sound grim, don't despair yet.
For fathers willing to work to stay important to their children, there are several options.
Perhaps the best of these is afforded by sports.
Kids love sports, because it gets them involved in something bigger than themselves, keeps them active, and gives them a way to make good friends.
But more than this, sports can act as a teaching tool for them.
Sports can teach them to work together to achieve goals, to put aside their differences, to be loyal, and to prioritize.
It makes kids understand the value of good sportsmanship and can instill self-esteem and self-worth.
In short, it can teach them how to grow up.
And, perhaps most importantly, sports aren't just a good way to help your kids grow.
They're a good way to be there to see it.
There are all sorts of sports leagues across the country, from football to baseball to soccer to hockey.
Depending on where you are, there can be dozens of opportunities, no matter what proficiency level they're at.
These sports teams almost always need adults to help.
Depending on the league, you can be a coach or an assistant coach, a scheduler, an office volunteer, even a transportation volunteer.
You can find a position that matches the time you're willing and able to put into it.
Some people may be better suited for coaching, while others are great at being able to organize snacks or post-game outings.
Whatever your skill, you can help people benefit from it.