Soccer

The game was coming to an end. The score (though they say it doesn't matter) was four to nothing. Dale was called over to toss the ball in. Coach Frank, also the time keeper, was entranced by the joy the kids found in kicking the ball up and down the simply marked field. So, the game was already overdue to end by five minutes. Dale's energy was just as intense, even now at the end of the game. This was his last chance to get the ball to his teammates to score. He peered down the field and found his cousin, J.R. J.R. finally noticed it was Dale throwing the ball and prepared himself for the pass.
Dale reached as far back as he could, determined to make it the best pass of the season and let the ball fly. J.R. was ready and let the ball bounce off his chest to his feet and he turned to kick the ball to the goal. The other children were converging on him as he gave a great kick and the ball shot right by the goal out of bounds. The goalie ran after the ball as it rolled into the gravel of the desert landscaping surrounding the park. Coach Frank blew the whistle, game over. Dale and J.R.'s moms groan to each other at the miss and prepare themselves for the disappointed boys.
Dale ran over to his mom, his face red from exertion. "Mom, mom did you see that throw? That was the farthest I've ever thrown it!"
J.R. followed close behind shouting, "Mom! Did you see how far I kicked it?"
Each boy received his due praise and then they ran off for their after-game treats.



My children play in a city soccer league. The emphasis is not on winning but on learning the game and participating. I think this is a good place for them to begin their soccer exploration. I personally do not know the game well and so am learning right along with them. I really enjoy watching them focus and concentrate on their positions. My oldest has declared that she wants to be a soccer player when she grows up (thank you Bend It Like Beckam). My son thinks being on the same team as his cousins is pure heaven. My 6 yr-old daughter says playing deffensive means sit down and watch. lol The picture above was from last fall's season. Spring season began last week and the kids couldn't be happier. I'm off now to pack the bag (four hours of games is a long time for the babies).