Dribble, pass, shoot
Dribble. Pass. Shoot. That's what Danny learned at his first soccer practice on Saturday. Armed with his shin guards, knee-high socks, soccer shoes, and size three soccer ball, my four-year-old made his debut performance on an organized, YMCA-sponsored sports team.Armed with our matching red canvas chairs, a small cooler filled with water and fruit, and a big brother by our side, we parents watched proudly as Danny did just as Coach Joe told him to do. He was willing, able, and excited. His head was in the game. And besides his one shout out to us -- "I don't want to play anymore" -- Danny remained focused for his hour-long commitment.
"Was I so great at soccer?" Danny asked all day on Saturday. We assured him he was a superstar. He assured us he had fun.
Next Saturday we go back for practice #2. Six weeks of games will follow. And then maybe a lifetime of athletic competition. Or maybe not. It's up to Danny. We'll provide the exposure. He can determine if sports are his thing or not. I can't wait to see how it all unfolds.
Want to know what experts say about kids and soccer? Click here.
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Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
3-26-2008 @ 12:04PM
Vishaal said...
I realized after high school, then college, that the majority of children who played school/club organized sports/activities like soccer, football, or cheerleading/dance remained active and fit as adults. Those people have kept their body fat down. I did not play anything in school or clubs, but I danced a lot. I was very heavy in high school, but thankfully, I found fitness to be a priority in my life in college. Soccer is something that I DEFINITELY would love children to try...it teaches them so much more beyond the game. It teaches fitness, leadership, teamwork, discipline, and respect. Great for the future. I wish I did soccer or ballet as a child.
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