Ever since my son started playing football ten years ago, my family and I have been blessed to be a part of some terrific football families. The idea that multiple families from different towns and different backgrounds can blend together into one big family is a concept that not everybody has experienced or may ever experience. After ten years of being a football parent, I can’t imagine not having it.

For a kid starting at any level, whether it be flag football, pee-wee, middle school and all the way up to high school and college, it's a great game. You learn how to be a leader, a great teammate and make new friends. For my wife and I, sharing the experience in the stands rooting for our kids and taking part in volunteer activities has been very special. We’ve struck friendships that will last a lifetime because of the game of football.

The friendships that are forged in the football community are so unique and stick with you throughout your life. There's a special football-family opportunity that isn't like any other -- The U.S. National Team. Make no mistake about it, it is the definition of family.  From Regionals, Middle School Bowl Games, High School Training Camp, and all the way up to International Bowl -- it's an indescribable and incomparable experience.  

It’s amazing to be able to meet so many people from around the country and world to share thoughts of the game and experience over the years. It’s a chance to learn under and play for some great high school and college coaches. The U.S. National Team allows athletes to forge friendships - brotherly bond- with other players on their team. This team is also special for the families of the players. They see their sons/brothers represent their country and make friends with families on the team that are from other parts of the country. 

There are no words to describe the feeling like seeing your child wear a jersey with “USA” across the chest at the first practice and game. It's emotional and thrilling to witness them run out of the tunnel at International Bowl to play against another country as they represent America.

U.S. National Team Senior Manager Aaron Ingram once told the parents and players at Regionals, “This is not a camp…it’s a program." You will see the entire staff proudly wear t-shirts that say “family.” Because that's what it means to be apart of The U.S. National Team -- Family.

Always cherish the family you are part of in your local community, but if you have an opportunity, register your child for a U.S. National Team Regional this year. The program is a terrific way for your child to grow as a football player and as a person. And, of course, it's a way to be apart of a special lifelong football family.

Peter is a sports anchor for the CBS Sports Radio Network, FOX News Headlines 24/7 and WCBS 880 Radio in New York.  His son Bradley plays middle school football on Long Island and is a participant in the U.S. National Team program while his younger son Jared plays flag football.   Peter, his wife Sheryl and the boys are busy cheering on the New York Jets when they’re not at a youth football field.