Somehow, I have become a soccer mom over the last 5 years. My son, H, plays competitive soccer. I told my husband just today that sometimes I just wish my kids didn't play sports at all. It's all too heart-wrenching for me. I don't want them to lose, don't want them to cause their team to lose, don't want them to get hurt, don't want them to get yelled at by the coach. But, at the same time, I know that sports are important, that they are learning a ton about life and how the world works. Mainly, they LOVE to play. If they didn't, we'd go on and go to the house. There are plenty of books to read and my DVR is full.
Today began a new season of club soccer. We pretty much play only in tournaments 2-3 weekends a month. This is also a concern, because we are a regular church attending/mom works at the church/my kids actually love our church kind of family. H has to miss quite a bit because of soccer. So far, we have made it work, but I'm not sure when the sacrifice will become too much. Right now it works.
L, our daughter, plays basketball and volleyball. She is hoping to make her school teams next school year, so we are doing instructional and recreational leagues and camps this summer to help her develop her skills.
In case you were wondering, I am the LEAST athletic person ever. I played recreational sports growing up, but I liked the socializing and snacks. I am not personally competitive at all. As in, I never really cared if we lost 85-10 in basketball, not a single bit. Give me a run at the concession stand and a friend to talk to, and I was a happy girl.
On the other hand, my husband is very athletic. He is competitive and super knowledgeable about ALL sports. He played basketball, baseball, and soccer (and probably other stuff too) for a very long time. Thankfully, our kids got his athletic ability.
So, for now, I will be the soccer mom. I'll make sure the uniforms are washed and ready (alternate jersey in the bag), the cleats fit and the water jug full. I'll get them to practice and games and hold my breath when H has to play keeper or L has to shoot free throws. I'll cringe as part of my heart runs his little legs off or battles against girls twice her size under the basket. I'll be their biggest cheerleader and the one who will do her best to be on the sideline every game and give out hugs no matter the outcome. Hopefully, they will look back one day and say, "My mom loved to watch me play."
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