September 8, 2007

How to be a 4 Year-Old Soccer Star

4 year-old soccer is hilarious. Here are a few guidelines to follow if you want to be a soccer star at this age:

1. Right after the opening kickoff, don’t run, or move. Stand perfectly still, and wait until all the coaches, referees and parents call out in unison, “Go get the ball.” Then make your move.
2. When the ball goes out of bounds, don’t stop playing. Keep on kicking the ball. Even if you end up on another field, no big deal.
3. Celebrate every goal…even if it was kicked by the other team.
4. Don’t pass the ball to anybody…ever.
5. Don’t hang back to play defense, follow the ball like a swarm of bees.
6. Make sure everyone sees and comments on your new shoes and shin pads.
7. Pick a little bit of grass on the field, and sprinkle it on the head of your teammate.

1. Care a little about the game. Care A LOT about getting a drink on the sideline.

   I coached and refereed Caleb’s first game this morning. I was proud that all the players followed all the guidelines above so well. Our church sponsors this Upward soccer league, and it’s a huge success around here. Here are a few action shots:

   
   Caleb’s first time playing. My first time coaching.

   
   Pre-game meeting

   
   pre-game warm-up drills

   
   Half-time pep talk wasn’t very peppy

   
   Caleb playing

   
   Caleb scores a goal

   
   Caleb celebrates his goal