Soccer Season

We wrapped up our soccer season last Saturday.  It was a pretty big time commitment – 2 weeknights (1-1/2 hours each) plus Saturday games.  But it was only 6 weeks, and you can do almost anything for 6 weeks. 

I didn’t know what to expect.  I have never played soccer before; the girls had never played soccer before.  I really know nothing about it except it looked exhausting to run back and forth and only get a goal or two … and sometimes none. 

But the weeknight practices freed me up to go for runs/walks/bike rides.  It gave me a chance to connect with parents of the girls’ firends.  It gave me a chance to watch the sunset. 

The Saturday games let me watch the girls in competitive play – a bit different than the performance-based dance lessons we had been involved in.  It let Jeremy and I sit together and watch as the girls grew in their ability to play each week.  It taught us to reign in criticism, and let out encouragement.  It taught the girls not to compare, but to cheer one another on. 

I think it was good. 

Madison’s team was winless, but they had heart.  They kept playing every week, even when they couldn’t score many goals.  Madison was better than when she started.  She enjoyed playing, and she might play again in the spring.  I only took my camera to one game, and her team had more subs.  So, I didn’t get as many pictures as I would have liked. 

                

Ellie’s team was undefeated.  They had less players on their team, so they had a chance to be on the field quite a bit. Ellie had a great time.  I think she’ll play again in the spring, but we’ll see.

                      

  Sports – a blessing for the family … and sometimes a major stress.  Each season is a new experience.