Proud does not begin to describe how I’m feeling.
They played hard and they played with heart. They stood tall and proud, ignoring the taunts of the opposing team.
My oldest son made a spectacular goal, but sadly it wasn’t enough. His soccer team was unexpectedly and abruptly knocked out of their upcoming tournament.
Afterwards, when the team showed good sportsmanship by congratulating the winning team and each other on how well they played despite the defeat, it made me realise how far my son has come.
He seemed to come out of the womb with a competitive streak. He was the kid who hated to lose. He had to win at everything. Everything. Whether it was racing across the playground with his friends, playing a board game with his family or finishing up his macaroni and cheese.
He’s been playing soccer since he was four-years-old, but when we first signed him up I have to admit I was a little worried that he might be thrown off his team for unsportsmanlike conduct. The hubby and I discussed it at length and decided playing competitive sports would actually be good for my big laddie. Where else would be better for him to learn how to be a good competitor in life than on the pitch?
It was hard watching him from the sidelines that first season and I questioned our decision to let him play so young. He would lose his temper and pout when he missed a goal, but then so did most of the other players. Slowly though, he began to see for himself that it’s not always about winning because not every one is going to win.
Not every one can win.
It’s about the love of the game and love it he does.
He’s played on winning teams and he’s also played on losing teams. He’s known the joy of holding that winning cup in his hands and he’s also known the pain that comes with being knocked out of a tournament.
I’ve come to realise these losses are important for our children. They teach them invaluable lessons, getting them ready for the real world. And, if he shows half the class he did that night, then I’ll be more than satisfied that through playing competitive sports, he’s developed the tools he needs to deal with life’s joys and disappointments.
When the team gathered for their final huddle and team cheer, the head coach’s words made me choke up.
“You left your hearts out there on that field.”
And, I left my voice out there on the sidelines. Cheering them on.
No blame was cast. It just was what it was. An unfortunate loss.
Son, you’ve come a long way.
Tags: boys, competitive, kids, life, parenting, proud, soccer, Sports, Thoughts
This is an excellent post. Paddy is in his team’s basketball final this Saturday and they haven’t lost yet….I wil be remembering your words either way….
YAY!!! It’s so great to hear of someone enjoying the sport for the sport not just for the win.
It’s not whether you win or loose but how you play the game, well done that lad.
Such a great post brimming with pride and the coach’s words gave me goosebumps – x
I agree with Kyooty…good for all of you!
What a wonderful tribute post. I can feel the emotion and pride behind your words.
Great post Karen, he’s grown up to be quiet the man and I’ll always be proud of him no matter what the score! what great nephews you’ve raised for me thanks xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Lovely post – you really captured the moment – and the progress. Well done to you all! I’ve tagged you over at mine!
OK I’ll admit this post made me a bit weepy!
What I really loved about this post was when you said “not everyone can win”. I don’t know what it’s like in other countries, but lots of team sports for kids in the USA try have an “everyone’s a winner” focus (scores aren’t kept at all, e.g.). Which is very nice, but this philosophy does nothing in terms of getting kids ready to face disappointment.
Sounds like your son is a very fine young man.
What a great post and that boy of yours is growing up! I was actually thinking he looks exactly like what your youngest is going to look like at that age, weird.
We’re thinking of putting G in soccer but are probably going to wait another year.