Soccer Season!!

Last year Ashton played soccer for TFA.  He played one stint of indoor soccer a few months ago (that got cut short with his knee incident) and wanted to continue with Spring Soccer.  Ethan, too, wanted to try soccer again.  Honestly, first we were so hesitant on putting him on a team.  We were fearful that he wouldn't be able to hold his own with speed and agility that is required in soccer.  However, we have always wanted Ethan to know that regardless of the stroke that affected his body, if he sets his mind to something and gives it his all, he will be successful.  His coach has been playing him typically in the defensive area.  At first Ethan was disappointed because like most boys, they want the glory the "scorer" usually gets, who plays offense.  We told him that he needed to play defense like you've never seen anyone play.  That the coach has each of the players in the right spot for their skills and talents.  After that pep talk Ethan REALLY ramped up his game.  He has been playing SOOO good.  We are so proud of him.  The entire team has really blossomed throughout the season.  

Unfortunately Ashton wasn't really placed on the right age/skill team for him.  Not that Ashton is some soccer Addonis, but somehow he is on a team with 6,7, and 8 year olds.  Often during the game you'll see a child bend down to pick daisies, or stare off into space.  This REALLY frazzles Ashton.  I can certainly understand.  However, we've been using this as a chance to teach him to see the good, that he should be rising as a leader, that he needs to own that field and play his heart out.  Sometimes it sticks with him, and other times it doesn't.  Work in progress here folks.  Next year I will definitely have a more active voice in what team they place him on.