Soccer Season comes to a close...

Soccer this season was a bit of a bust. For those of you who don't know William IRL, he does not like lots of attention (especially when people are watching). Now, if he knows everyone (i.e. family or his buddies), he's fine. But, in a situation like soccer, where he only knows 1 other player and very few of the spectators, he is completely out of his comfort zone.

The soccer season consisted of 8 games (I think). The first 6 of those he stood like a statue in the middle of the field (he would have preferred to stand at the edge, but he knew that a *punishment* would ensue if he didn't obey his coach and stand in the circle in the middle). Every week we tried bribery-- a new toy, going out to eat at his favorite restaurant, candy, WHATEVER he wanted! And every week I could tell he really did want to play. But as soon as he stepped onto that field, it was as if he physically could not make himself do it. It was sad to watch, really.

At game 7, we were fully prepared for the same thing. We were scheduled to go for a swimming evaluation right afterwards, and I told him that if he played in the game (even kicking the ball ONE time would work) we'd go swimming. At half time, he still hadn't played, so I went over to give him a pep talk. Over my shoulder he could see the concession stand with those disgusting yummy pretzels. Of course, he wanted one. I told him that if he played in the game we'd get him a pretzel AND we'd go swimming. Well, you know what? He was like a new kid. He ran, he kicked, he ran, and he kicked. He must've kicked the ball a dozen times! Now, he wasn't overly aggressive, but wow-- he actually played! After the game, he told us that he really like soccer.

Game 8/9 was a double header-- the last day of games. Whoever thought of having the 3/4yr olds have a double header in soccer has never had a 3/4 yr old. He played pretty well in the first game. He ran, kicked, ran, and kicked. By the 2nd game, he was bored and tired, and kept subbing out. Even the star player was pooped.

I'm just thankful that he ended deciding that he liked it. Although, he obviously didn't like it TOO much because he now wants to do gymnastics...