Children Playing Soccer

Ever since my oldest daughter first asked me, "Mommy, when can I play soccer?", I knew that I was in for an adventure.
When you first see them in their uniforms, you think, "Oh how cute does she look?", then the first time you see them on the field, and they let the ball roll past them, you think, "Why is my child out there?"

The parents are really the funniest. They get more excited and seem to be more involved than the kids. We're forever shouting instructions to them out on the field, attempting to improve upon the directions already given by their poor coach. He's a real hero. Listening to us shout at our children, when none of us have the foggiest idea of what's really happening in the game. If we did know, we'd be coaching, wouldn't we? Of course, our children know that we haven't any real knowledge of the game, that's why they don't listen when we're yelling ourselves hoarse. They just go on their merry little ways, having a great time, running after the ball, occasionally scoring a goal just so Mom and Dad will cheer for them.

Let me tell you a little secret..the real reason the kids come is for the after game snacks. Seriously..if you forget the snack and drinks, those little ones won't let you forget it. You have done a big "no no" when you slight them with no goodies. Shame on you!

It gets worse as they get older, and move onto more competative teams.
The games are more intense and nail-biting. The competition is fierce. We as the parents have to appear more reserved and calm. It's hard, but we manage. This is only due to the fact that our twelve, almost thirteen year old daughters will ultimately die of mortification if we jump around and scream when they make an impressive play. That is unless, the entire group of parents is jumping up and down at the same time and making fools of themselves as a unit. Then of course, it's okay.

Since both of my daughters now play soccer regularly, our Saturdays, and many Sundays are filled with mini-vans, lots of driving, post-game snacks and drinks, some low-key as well as high-key cheering, stinky, smelly soccer cleats and shin-guards. Don't think for a minute that I'll ever complain. It's the most exciting time of my life.