Pilar Sanders, the ex-wife of Colorado Buffaloes coach Deion Sanders, has been a constant source of support for her children, Shilo, Shedeur, and Shelomi. Regularly seen at games in Boulder and even traveling to Alabama for her daughter’s matches with the A&M Bulldogs, Pilar’s dedication to her kids is evident. Recently, she celebrated Shilo’s impressive performance during a tough game against the Kansas Jayhawks, where the Buffs fell 37-21. Despite the loss, Shilo shined with a career-high of 13 tackles, and Pilar took to Instagram to express her pride.
Celebrating achievements amidst challenges
“Congrats son! 🎉🗣️👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽Great job @shilosanders #proudmom #bigshilo #big21 #21 #headachegang #shilosanders #gobuffs #footballmom vs. Kansas,” Pilar wrote, showcasing her unwavering support for her son even in the face of adversity. This kind of encouragement is vital for young athletes navigating the pressures of college football.
A complex family dynamic
The journey of the Sanders family has not been without its challenges. When Coach Prime and Pilar divorced in 2013, he initially received full custody of their children, while Pilar was granted visitation rights. The divorce was highly publicized, with Pilar facing legal troubles, including a defamation lawsuit from Deion after she made serious allegations regarding their children. This tumultuous period included Pilar spending seven days in jail for contempt of court and multiple court sessions over custody disputes.
In a surprising twist, Shilo publicly expressed his desire to live with his mother. In 2017, he tweeted, “After what seems like forever, I’m finally officially back full-time with my mom! My mom having full custody of me is all I have wanted for years. Thank you to the court system for finally seeing the truth and putting me in a healthy, loving environment.” This tweet, although later deleted, highlighted the complexities of their family situation and Shilo’s feelings about his upbringing.
Shilo’s protective nature
Pilar has shared amusing anecdotes about Shilo’s overprotectiveness. On a 2022 episode of “The Second Shot,” she recounted how he would often insist she stay home during games. “My son, like Shilo in particular, he’s like, ‘Mommy just stay home, you don’t have to do anything,'” she laughed. “Whenever we show up for the game, he’s trying to cover me like, ‘I don’t want anyone looking at your bu*t or your shape,’ and I’m like, ‘Shilo, come on!'”
This protective instinct shows the strong bond between mother and son, and it’s heartwarming to see how Shilo looks out for her, even in the public eye. Pilar humorously noted that outsiders often mistake her for Shilo’s sister rather than his mother, a testament to their close relationship.
Colorado’s season struggles
While Pilar’s support for her children is unwavering, the Colorado Buffaloes have faced their share of challenges this season. The recent loss to the Kansas Jayhawks has sparked criticism, particularly regarding the team’s defensive performance. Fans and analysts alike have voiced concerns about the Buffs’ ability to compete at a high level, especially in crucial matchups.
Despite the setbacks, the Sanders family remains a beacon of resilience and support. Pilar’s presence at games and her positive messages on social media serve as a reminder of the importance of family in the world of college football. As Shilo continues to develop as a player, the encouragement from his mother undoubtedly plays a significant role in his journey.
The importance of family in sports
In college football, the pressure to perform can be immense, and having a supportive family can make all the difference. Pilar Sanders exemplifies this support, attending games and celebrating her children’s achievements, no matter the circumstances. Her commitment not only uplifts her children but also sets an example of perseverance and love in the face of adversity.
As the season progresses, fans will be watching closely to see how the Buffaloes respond to their recent challenges. With players like Shilo Sanders stepping up and a supportive family behind them, there is hope for a turnaround. The resilience of the Sanders family, coupled with their passion for the game, is a story that resonates deeply with college football enthusiasts everywhere.
In the world of college football, where victories and defeats can come in waves, it’s the stories of family, support, and determination that truly stand out. Pilar Sanders’ dedication to her children is a shining example of how love can fuel success on and off the field. As the Buffaloes continue their campaign, one thing is certain: the Sanders family will be there, cheering each other on, no matter the outcome.
