Soccer Smiles

Last summer Joseph was part of a soccer team - all the kids on the team were from his preschool class.  The sport was new to him and he was pretty unsure about what to do with the ball, but he had the biggest smile of any player on the field.  He enjoyed it so much that we signed him up again for fall soccer, and then again for winter indoor soccer.  He has broken the long-standing Porter tradition of running away from the ball (a tradition established by his siblings), and he hustles around the field and fights for the ball. His skill level has really improved, and now he routinely scores goals for his team. The last game he scored 5 GOALS!! And one of the goals was kicked from way across the field, where he was acting as the "goalie."  He was beyond excited, and earned a big bowl of ice cream once we were home.

While it's fun to see him feel successful when he contributes to or makes a goal, for us it is all about whether or not it's a positive and fun experience. And right now he is having a great time, and he still is the smileyest soccer player we have ever seen.  And, at this age, sports teams are pretty stress-free and hilarious.  Half the time the kids are dancing or running the wrong direction.  And, Bailey reminded me that sports at age 5 are all about the treats and the trophy.

Joseph loves to practice at home - he dribbles the ball around our house and challenges us to play against him.  So far nothing in the house has broken, but the day is coming soon, I'm sure.  Let's hope the Washington rainy season ends soon so that he can play outside!

These pictures are from his fall soccer team. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Warning:  the video below is Joseph playing indoor soccer.  It will only possibly be interesting to Joseph's grandparents, who don't live close enough to attend any games, but would likely bore anyone else to tears.  This is some video from the one game when I remembered to bring my video camera, but it doesn't happen to be very exciting footage.  I, of course, have not captured any really good shots or goals on video - I either forgot my camera or was having too much fun watching to tape it!