These days, it seems like families are always on the go and usually in different directions. While this can be tough at times, it is important to parents to be able to be there to support their kids so they do what they can to make that happen. Sylvia Chavana is the mother of three and she says that she is thankful her work schedule helps her be able to do that.
“I’m grateful that I have a job that allows me to make it to every game that my girls have,” she said. “I practice with them when they ask and support them any way I can. I will always encourage them to play sports and be the best they can be.”
Chavana has three daughters. Natalia is a sophomore at Ponca City High School, where she plays softball and basketball and also runs track. Zaryah is in third grade and plays soccer, softball, and basketball, while Kaylani is in kindergarten and plays soccer. The two younger girls attend Trout Elementary School.
Sylvia is a Senior Optimization Engineer at Phillips 66 Refinery. She says that if she is able to find free time, she has a few ways she likes to spend it.
“In what little free time I have between games and practices, I enjoy reading,” she said. “I love mysteries, thrillers and true crime.”
It takes a lot more time with a student in high school, usually because they have a lot more things going on in their lives compared to their younger siblings. Chavana says that this is true but it is important for kids to know how to set priorities.
“The toughest part about being a parent of a high school athlete is helping them maneuver through the ups and downs,” she said. “Encouraging them when times are tough and ensuring they don’t succumb to the pressures we put on them. Never allowing them to give up no matter how bad they want to. It is also extremely important for kids to know what their priorities are so they can spend their time working on top priorities. Academics is prioritized over athletics, and all our girls know that if they fall behind in school then they won’t play sports.”
