However, in our world there is much gray associated with soccer too! Davis started playing soccer this spring. He didn't ask to play, he really hardly knew what soccer was. However, team sports were a big part of my childhood where I learned many lessons and have great memories. Naturally, I would like to be able to offer that experience to my children as well. Thus, we signed Davis up for soccer.
Admittedly, I knew that soccer and Davis' might not be a perfect match but I figured perhaps some fun would be had and it could provide a great growing experience for him (and he didn't meet the birthday deadline for baseball)!. We are 4 practices in, and 1 game in and let me tell you, this has proven to be a growing experience for yours truly..... the new soccer mom.
Davis is not an overly physical little boy, nor is he really aggressive. He likes order and structure. Let me tell you.... ironically, the COMPLETE opposite of a bunch of 3 year olds on a soccer field! I want so badly for him to get in there and be carefree, have fun! But I think the whole thing just kind of overwhelms the little guy! We've yet to go a full practice without a few tears being shed (he is very attached to his ball, he also got really frightened when every one charged at him when he was kicking the ball down the field)!
His first game, he had no interest in touching the ball! But to his credit no tears were shed (even though his team got killed... I know, I know nobody keeps score but when it's 8-0 it's hard not to count)! I think his favorite part of the game was the snack time at the end!
We are left thinking how can we get him to shed some of his inhibitions and try new things without there being meltdowns involved. The only answers we keep coming up with are prayer, encouragement, and keep exposing him to safe, challenging environments. And did I mention prayer?
I don't want to push him too hard, but I also want him to stretch himself. If he isn't into sports, that really is okay with us! Truly, we adore the kid! How could we not?
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| Avery and Davis' first soccer practice! We were all excited they were on the same team! |
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| Davis was pumped that he is #1 on his team. Just like Thomas the Train! He will also chant and say "I'm number 1, I'm number 1"! |
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| I thought it was a little bit neat that Davis and Avery tended to stay close by to each other on the field. That is when both of them were on the field at the same time. :) |
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| Look at that smile! |
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| GOOOOOOO Avery! Such a little soccer star! |
