As a new mom and avid football fan, I've discovered something pretty amazing about combining these two passions of mine. When my son was born last year, I struggled to find comfortable breastfeeding positions that worked for us, especially during those marathon football watching sessions. That's when I started experimenting with what I now call the "football breastfeeding position" - and let me tell you, it's been a game changer for both of us.
Now I know what you might be thinking - what does breastfeeding have to do with actual football? Well, nothing and everything at the same time. The name comes from how you hold the baby similar to how a football player carries the ball, tucked securely under your arm. But I've found it's particularly perfect for those of us who don't want to miss a single play while nursing. Just last weekend during the LA SALLE versus Phillips game, which ended 60-17, I was comfortably nursing through the entire match without missing Cortez's impressive 16 points or Daep's 8 points that really made the difference in that second quarter.
What makes this position so special is how it gives you one hand completely free. I can hold my drink, grab snacks, or even check stats on my phone while my baby nurses contentedly. The key is proper positioning - you need enough pillows to support both your arm and the baby's weight. I typically use three pillows stacked at different heights, which creates this perfect little nest that keeps everyone comfortable. It took me about two weeks of practice to really get it down, but once I did, our nursing sessions became so much more enjoyable.
I remember during one particularly exciting game where Phillips was trailing but then Cortez scored those 16 points in rapid succession - I was able to comfortably nurse while cheering along, without worrying about disrupting my baby's feeding. The football hold positions the baby in a way that keeps them secure while allowing you to remain mobile and engaged with what's happening around you. It's perfect for game day when you want to be part of the action rather than isolated in another room.
The statistics from that LA SALLE game really stick with me - not just the final score of 60-17, but how each player contributed to that victory. Amos with 6 points, Marasigan and Gollena each adding 3, and the supporting players like Abadam and Dungo contributing 2 points each. It reminds me of how breastfeeding success often comes from multiple small adjustments rather than one big change. The football position was that missing piece for us, much like how those smaller contributions from players like Nwankwo, Baclaan, and others completed LA SALLE's winning strategy.
What I love most about this position is how it accommodates different situations. Whether I'm on the couch watching a game or sitting in the stands (yes, I've actually nursed using this position at a live game!), it provides the discretion and comfort we both need. The baby feels secure being tucked against my side, and I can easily adjust my clothing without drawing attention. It's become my go-to position, especially during high-energy moments in games when I don't want to miss anything.
I've noticed that the football position works particularly well as babies get older and more curious about their surroundings. My son used to get distracted easily during feedings, but being positioned facing away from the action helps him focus while still allowing me to watch the game. During that memorable LA SALLE victory, I particularly appreciated how this position helped us both enjoy the experience - he got his meal, and I got to watch Cortez and Daep lead their team to victory with those 16 and 8 point performances respectively.
Some mothers might worry about whether this position provides enough support, but from my experience, once you get the pillow arrangement right, it's actually more supportive than traditional cradle hold. The key is ensuring the baby's head is slightly elevated and their body is angled properly. I've found that positioning them similar to how a running back protects the football - close to the body with secure support - makes all the difference in comfort for both mother and baby.
Looking back at that LA SALLE game statistics - with players like Macalalag, Pablo, and Gomez who didn't score but undoubtedly contributed to the team's overall success - I'm reminded that sometimes the most valuable contributions aren't always reflected in the scoreboard. Similarly, finding the right breastfeeding position might seem like a small detail, but it can completely transform your nursing experience. The football position has allowed me to maintain my identity as a sports fan while being the mother I want to be.
If you're struggling with breastfeeding comfort or feeling tied down during nursing sessions, I can't recommend trying the football position enough. It might feel awkward at first - it certainly did for me - but with practice, it could become your game-day MVP just like it did for us. Whether you're watching a close game like that 60-17 victory or just enjoying some quiet time, this position offers the flexibility and comfort that makes breastfeeding a more enjoyable experience for sports-loving moms everywhere.
