The Lasso Way?
From AFC Richmond to Real Life
It’s the 11th day of the 11th month. And, if you haven’t guessed, I’m celebrating my birthday!
I’m inviting you to this little virtual party of mine (you’re welcome, don’t mention it).
Here’s the twist: it’s not just a party but a reflection, inspired by my latest binge-watch of the year. So grab a drink (or, in true British spirit, a cup of tea) and settle in!
Football is Life!
So, let’s rewind…
A few weeks ago, my sister asked, “Have you seen Ted Lasso?” And, after a blank stare, I hit her with the question, “Who’s that?” Cue her laughter. When she said it was a popular comedy series, I mentally checked out. Comedy? Really? Since when? Shhh, don't blame me. I’m more of an action-thriller kind of person, and she knows it. But again, her recommendations are never out of line. Comedy wasn’t just it. I'd rather go to sleep.
Weeks later, a friend asked me the same question. Alright, the universe was sending me a sign. So, I caved. I watched it. And not just watched — I soaked it in. Now? I’m hooked—can't resist talking about it. Ted Lasso isn’t just a feel-good sports sitcom; it’s a mirror for life, with each character reflecting something we all grapple with or aspire to.
So, in true Lasso fashion, here’s a toast to the year that’s been with some gold I’m taking forward, courtesy of AFC Richmond.
The Backstory of Ted Lasso
In case you haven’t met the Ted Lasso squad yet, here’s the gist: It’s a comedy-drama series on Apple TV+ created by Bill Lawrence, Jason Sudeikis, Joe Kelly, and Brendan Hunt.
Jason Sudeikis stars as Ted Lasso, an American college football coach hired to coach an English soccer team, despite knowing absolutely nothing about soccer (or “football,” as it’s called in the UK). The team’s owner, Rebecca Welton, hires him as part of a revenge scheme against her ex-husband, who deeply loved the club. But what she — and we — get instead is a journey far deeper than imagined, filled with heart, humour, and life lessons.
Here are a few characters who entertained and made me reflect on the passing year to the new year.
Ted Lasso: The Power of Optimism and Persistence
Let’s start with Ted himself. This guy walks into a world he knows nothing about and yet throws himself in, headfirst, leading with optimism. This past year, I found myself in my own “fish out of water” moments, where I had no clue what I was doing or why. Ted’s relentless positivity reminds me that sometimes it’s less about what you know and more about how you approach what you don't—this thing about having faith in the process.
When life throws curveballs, optimism necessarily doesn't equate to denial. Sometimes, it’s resilience. Lean into positivity even through tough days, and soon, you’ll find yourself smiling through chaos.
Rebecca Welton: Embracing Reinvention and Self-Worth
Then there’s Rebecca, the team’s owner, who starts with her revenge agenda but finds something much more profound.
“The little things we get mad about are like snowflakes on a mountain. And if we wait too long, then we are just one sneeze away from an avalanche that will kill us all.”
Rebecca is this beautiful reminder that it’s okay to rebuild, seek our worth beyond anyone’s approval, and walk away from things that no longer serve us—even if it means standing on shaky new grounds. I watched her realize her values, one that begets the question, “Am I where I want to be, or am I staying somewhere just because it’s comfortable?” Reinventing yourself is brave, not a sign of weakness. It’s a courageous choice to grow, and sometimes, breaking away is how we build ourselves anew.
Roy Kent: Loyalty, Grit, and Staying True to Yourself
Perhaps, this is Roy Keane, a former coach and well-known former footballer of Manchester United in reality.
Roy Kent, the gritty, no-nonsense ex-captain, is all fire and loyalty. He’s rough around the edges, but underneath that tough exterior is a heart that fiercely protects those he cares about. Roy’s loyalty to his friends, his values, and ultimately, to his path is something I admire deeply.
Roy’s character reminds me of the importance of staying true to oneself and holding onto the things that matter most when everything around us is in flux. Sometimes, it’s tough to stand firm, but Roy teaches us that while we can bend, we don’t have to break — our core values are worth holding onto, even if it means taking the harder path.
Keeley Jones: The Light of Authenticity and Kindness
And let’s talk about Keeley, shall we? Keeley Jones, with her unapologetic charm and warmth, brings a light to every room she enters. She’s the poster child for being unapologetically authentic. That energy is contagious!
I often remind myself that being genuine is one of the best gifts I can give to the people around me. Keeley’s kindness, her way of lifting others without losing her voice, is a reminder to let my light shine. Life is too short to dim ourselves, and Keeley proves that being kind doesn’t mean being small. It can be fierce too!
Jamie Tartt: Redemption and Growth
And then there’s Jamie Tartt, the star player who starts as a self-absorbed, flashy character but slowly learns humility and grows into a teammate you can root for. Jamie’s journey is a reminder that people can change and that we all have a chance to be better, even if it’s just one small step at a time. It’s never too late to take that first step toward who we want to be.
Change is messy.
Growth? It’s a beautiful thing.
Sam Obisanya: Standing Up for What Matters
Sam Obisanya is probably one of my favorites on the team. He’s kind, thoughtful, and quietly brave. When Sam chooses to stand up for his beliefs, even at the risk of losing opportunities, it’s a reminder that courage doesn’t always need to roar. Sometimes, it’s a quiet, steady conviction in what’s right. Sam’s story is an inspiration to take a stand for our values, even in situations where it’s tempting to stay silent.
When you honour your principles, you’ll never truly lose.
Nate Shelley: The Double-Edged Sword of Ambition
Nate Shelley’s journey in Ted Lasso is complex. He goes from the quiet, diligent kit man who’s overlooked by almost everyone to a coach with real talent and confidence. But as his ambition grows, so do his insecurities, till he loses sight of his core. Nate’s fall from grace is painful to watch because it feels so human—a reminder of how the hunger for validation can sometimes lead us away from the things that matter most.
What I find powerful about Nate’s story is the way it captures both the exhilaration and dangers of personal growth. His journey reminds me of the importance of self-compassion and staying true to who we are, even as we strive to become better versions of ourselves. Keep your ambition in check — to push forward without losing sight of the people and values that ground you.
“I hope that either all of us or none of us are judged by the actions of our weakest moments but rather by the strength we show when and if we’re ever given a second chance.”
Wrapping Up: Living the Lasso Way
So here’s to Ted Lasso, to AFC Richmond, and to the year I’ve had and the one I look forward to.
And to anyone reading this who hasn’t watched the show yet, let me tell you, it’s worth it — not just for the laughs, but for the heart. The characters might make you chuckle, but they’ll also make you think and maybe even inspire you to live with a little more heart.
As I move forward, I’m taking the Lasso Way with me: optimism, authenticity, resilience, and the belief that even in our messiest moments, there’s a way forward.
So here’s to another year of believing — believing in the goodness of people, in the power of kindness, and in our capacity to grow.
It’s just one life.
And for me, the goal is simple.
To live it well before I leave it.
If you feel inspired to share a birthday wish or simply want to say hello, I’d love to hear from you! You can reach me at egoluwadunsin@gmail.com. No pressure, but reading from you would be a great gift.
Cheers!
