We left Bourg-les-Valence on Friday afternoon, setting off around 1 p.m. for the long journey north to Amiens. After hours on the road, we finally arrived late that evening, tired but excited for the days ahead. During the five days, our small group shared a house close to the competition venue. Alongside our coach and two other families, we created a temporary home away from home. We shared breakfasts before early starts, dinners after long competition days, and countless conversations in between. Looking back, those moments together may be what I remember most.

This championship was not an easy one to experience. The weeks leading up to Amiens had been difficult for many families. Rumors spread quickly, friendships were tested, and some children found themselves removed from the club including myself before one of the biggest competitions of the season. It was a situation that weighed heavily on everyone involved. Despite everything, we made the journey to Amiens.

On the first day, Milana competed first in X-Strut during the morning session. She stepped onto the floor and did everything she could. As parents, we know our children better than anyone. While she completed her first routine with courage and determination, I could see in her expression that she was not quite herself. The smile and confidence that usually shine through her performances seemed harder to find. Later in the day, she performed her Solo routine. The same expression and doubt. At that moment, there was nothing to fix and no words that could change the situation. All I could do was stand by her side, support her, and remind her that her value is not measured by scores or rankings. The day felt long, and by early evening the preliminary results were announced. Milana did not qualify for the finals, which was held on Monday.

Of course, there was disappointment. Every athlete dreams of extending their championship experience and having another chance to step onto the floor. But sport teaches us lessons that are often bigger than medals and placements.

During the second and third days, we became spectators. We stood on the sidelines and cheered for the teammates who continued competing. We celebrated their successes, watched them receive medals, and shared in their excitement.

What touched me most was the support shown by those teammates and families who chose to stay by our side throughout the championship. In a season marked by division, their friendship reminded us of what team spirit should truly be. Watching them receive recognition for their hard work and dedication brought me genuine happiness. Their achievements were earned through countless hours of training, sacrifice, and perseverance. Seeing their smiles on the podium was a moment worth celebrating with their parents. More importantly, I was also happy for our coach. No matter the challenges faced throughout the season, it was clear how proud she was of her athletes. Behind every performance is a coach who invests time, energy, patience, and belief into helping young athletes grow—not only in sport but as people.

As I reflect on those three days in Amiens, I realize that this championship was never only about results.

It was about resilience.

It was about showing up when things are difficult.

It was about supporting our children when their hearts are heavy.

It was about friendships that endured when circumstances tried to pull people apart.

And it was about remembering that success is not always measured by a medal, but sometimes by the courage to continue.

For Milana, the championship may not have ended the way she hoped. But I am proud of her. Proud that she stepped onto the floor. Proud that she gave what she could give. Proud that she continued to support her teammates even after her own competition was over.

As we drove home on Tuesday, I found myself replaying the weekend in my mind. The performances. The disappointments. The victories. The friendships. The moments of support when they were needed most.

Some wounds from this season have not fully healed, and perhaps they never will. But Amiens reminded me why we started this journey in the first place. Not for medals or rankings, but for the growth of our children, the friendships they build, and the memories we create together along the way.

For that, I am grateful.