This is Sc out’s first official year of real deal soccer. He is a “Breaker”, and has a few buddies on the team. Last week was his first game, and I forgot my camera, and the game was kind of a bust. I had high expectations, and poor Scout just seemed timid on the field. Quite honestly, he has always been one to observe first, and then jump into the mix, so this should have been expected. (But from the time he was little, we would go to a playground, and he would observe everyone and what they were doing for a while, and then he would join in.)
So our lesson throughout the week was all about being aggressive. And I gave him the incentive of 31 Flavors (anything he wanted including a triple scoop) if he made a goal. I really wanted him to get his first goal to build his confidence.
So in ridiculous heat, we made it out to game two.
There was a mini practice beforehand. Notice Icka walking directly through the path of least resistance. That is, until a ball hits her.
After practice, he was boiling hot and sweaty. So we doused him with water, and I gave him an icy rag to cool down with. (Thanks for the tip B.)
From the beginning, there was a major improvement from the previous week.
Look at him going for the high ball.
Hallelujah!
By the time he was in for a water break, he was so wiped. Look at him — it looks like he is in la la land.
In the meantime, Navy was babysitting Dash with goldfish. I’ll admit, she did a fine job.
The game was coming to a close, and I kept reminding Scout of 31 Flavors. I told him that all he had to do was get the ball in the goal. And then with about 30 seconds left, he was with a group of kids, then he got the ball, and took a kick and….
GOAL!
I was right there snapping pictures. As soon as he shot the goal, he looked at me and I grabbed his little cheeks and yelled, “You did it! You made a goal!” Then I smacked a big kiss right on his lips. He was SO excited, and then said…”Remember 31 Flavors?”
I said I did, and we were going to go that night.
And the game ended.
I know he is five, but I was beyond excited. Not because I cared if he made a goal, but I knew that a goal would give him propelling confidence. And what more could a mother want for her son?
So it was snack time, then a BBQ at Grandma’s house, and then we were off to Yogurtland. His pick as an alternative treat that was closer to where we were. And a $6.00 yogurt later, it was worth it for everyone!
| DESIGN BY