Team Soccer

A year ago we had our first practice. We as being: Kade the player and I as the coach. I had zero expectations for this group of six. I spent long hours coming up with drills and interesting ways to learn the game with out actually focusing on the game itself. It was skill building vs game playing. After all, we were a team of 3-6 year olds.  I was thrilled we kept our hands down and ran the ball towards our box. Snack was a motivating factor as was playing “Captain”.  I am never above bribing.  

One year later, we have entered a third season with two players. Kade is playing up a level and Ashton is still rolling around in the box. I am on the sidelines. Through the seasons I have learned absolutely safety is first, but fair is not fair. All of those warm fuzzies we practice at home and school are forgotten once those cleats hit the feet. I have a competitive edge that at the age of 36 I  am only now only becoming acquainted. I kinda fear her.

Soccer fields are where the best-laid plans to shield children from loss, thieves and kicks to the shin are transformed into a fleeting hope that nobody gets hurt (safety first), but someone has to win (right?).

Every Saturday from September through the middle of November we practice a new set of rules. Soccer rules.

1. Sharing is not caring.

If you pass the ball to your opponent, they will not pass it back. They will deliberately take the ball from you with or without your invitation. They may score. Gasp!

At this level you barely share the ball as it is. This being stated, NEVER-EVER share the ball with the other team. Keep it away just as you would from your brother.

2. Want it. 

Want that ball. Kick and yell fighting for the ball just as you do towards me when I tell you that you may not have a donut. Now is the time for that assault. Give it to ‘em.

3. We are not all winners.

You are not playing Grandma Church. The other team will not just let you win.  There will be games when a goal is made on your defense. This goal may win the game for the OTHER team. It happens. You lost. The sad reality is you are a loser on the field, but to me you are always a winner. There is a time and place for the fuzzies and as a reminder it is not on the field. Do not cry. Cry to Mama in the car, but brave face it those (short) 50 minutes on the field.

4. You may suck.

You have been told you are the best, and you are, but to me. Truth be told, the best player on your team isn't even the best player. Ideally, you should play at 110 percent, which is known only in sports math.

5. No hands in soccer.

Don't pick up the ball. No hands. Drop the ball. Do we use hands in soccer?

6. I can't always help you.

I may scream, yell over the heads of other parents and run the lines, but I cannot play for you. It kills me. Secretly, I want to. Like really, really bad want to. You must learn to play without me.

I will always be proud. I will forever be supportive. I will always console you or celebrate with you. And to me, youwill always be the best. But you must set and score your goals.

Boys, have fun like only you know how.
 

“Some wait their entire life to meet their favorite player. I am raising mine.”