Cobber athletes, like all athletes, play out these personal dramas, each on their own. Athletes rarely play only for parents. But parents are often a part of why they play. Some athletes play to prove they are grown. Other athletes quit to prove they are grown.
Some athletes play to block out parental hurt.
Others play to preserve a common channel of communication with parents. Some athletes play to live out the dreams of their parents. Others quit because they want their own dreams. Some athletes play to show up their Dads. Others play in hopes of being as good as Dad.