When it comes to high school football, fall camp isn’t just about drills and plays—it’s a marathon of bonding and prep, affectionately known as "Midnight Madness." For three full days, coaches and players immerse themselves in the game, building team spirit and gearing up for the season.

As the head coach, my husband’s role in "Midnight Madness" goes beyond just leading the players. He's responsible for organizing every detail, ensuring the events run smoothly, and keeping everyone safe throughout those intense three days. The pressure and expectations on him are huge, and I wanted to offer a little relief. By putting together this little gift box, I aimed to show my support and lighten his load, even if just a bit, so he could focus on what matters most—bonding with his players and prepping for a great season.

So, the night before he kicked off his Midnight Madness extravaganza, I handed him a sleek black box designed to make the long days brighter and put a smile on his face. Inside were the essentials: gum to keep his breath fresh during those endless meetings, Airborne for immune support, sunscreen for those long days on the field, and a mix of trail mix and Skittles to keep him energized and happy. I also included a little leather-bound notebook, felt pens for jotting down brilliant play ideas, and a handwritten card to remind him he’s walking in God’s purpose and that I’m supporting him on that walk.

If you’re looking to send your special someone off to camp (or any big event, really), here’s how to create a thoughtful and useful gift box:

1. Stock Up on Essentials: Think about what they’ll need during their long days. Include snacks, health boosters, and any personal touches they might appreciate.

2. Add Personal Touches: A handwritten note or a favorite treat can make all the difference. It’s these small touches that show you’re thinking of them.

3. Prepare for the Unexpected: Include items that can be lifesavers in unplanned situations—like sunscreen for those unexpected sunny breaks or gum for a fresh breath after a day of intense conversations.

Creating this box showed my support and gave him a little taste of home amid the football frenzy. He opened it after his first set of meetings (some of which were discouraging) on day one and said, “You always know what to say. Thank you! The day is getting better.”

If you’ve got any ideas for camp care packages or want to see more of our football adventures, follow me on Instagram for a peek behind the scenes! Let’s make this season memorable together!