One of the most sage pieces of advice I have ever received came three years ago from a group of then senior football parents back in the fall of 2008.

It was, simply, "Enjoy it, because it goes fast."

They were talking about the four years of high school. And you know what? Looking back, they were right on the button.

Thursday night my oldest son Ryan graduates from Kennedy High School. And it does seem just like yesterday that he was a bright eyed, but nervous, freshman entering a new stage in his life. And now he is ready to embark on another.

Time always passes quickly, but perhaps even quicker if you have a son or daughter involved in extracurricular activities through school. Whether it be athletics or the fine arts, there is something for everyone. That's my first piece of advice for young parents out there today!

The school year seems to go very quickly, but even quicker if you break the year down into the three sports seasons: fall, winter and spring/summer. Why is this? Well, when your sport, or play, or what have you is in season, you look forward to the next game, event or concert with such anticipation, the days just roll into one another. And before you know it you are to the end of the season and looking forward to the next. Then, as one season closes you look forward to the next year and work on your craft in anticipation of improving yourself.

The days seem to melt away.

My best piece of advice during this graduation season is this for young parents getting ready for high school, enjoy the ride.

Pretty simple, but yet profound, I believe. From the freshman year to the time your child puts away that uniform or script or whatever the case may be, there will be many ups and downs. Plenty of late nights. Plenty of wondering if it's all worth it. My answer is a resounding yes, it is all worth it.

Studies show that children in extracurricular activities fare better than students who are not. While it is tough to balance studies, and activities, the rewards far outdistance the negatives. Kids learn life lessons, responsibility and teamwork. Lessons that will serve them well in life.

So I will pass on to you good readers exactly what I was told back in the late summer of 2008. Be encouraging to your son or daughter. Help them through the high points and the low points, and trust me there will be many. And above all, enjoy the ride because before you know it, it will be all over.

Then enjoy the memories.

Happy graduation to the Class of 2012.

(Scott Unash is the sports and program director at KGYM-AM 1600 (FM 106.3). He is a six-time winner of the Iowa Broadcast News Association play-by-play Announcer of the Year Award. Scott and Mark Dukes co-host the Gym Class weekdays from 3-4 p.m. on KGYM-AM 1600 and FM-106.3)