the real football

It is quite certain that my involvement in soccer has been a very enjoyable experience over the years. I have been fortunate to see and be a part of many special moments, from recreational kindergarten ages all the way to assistant coaching at the US Youth Soccer National championships. In the middle of these levels have been many, many wonderful experiences, and I truly feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to take part in all of these.

Along the way, I have also had the good fortune to witness my kids growing up, learning to appreciate the game themselves, at the levels that they deemed make the most sense for them. I remember clearly my oldest, when he tried his first real fake in a soccer game – wow, was that the most amazing stepover ever?!?!?!?! A few years ago, I saw when the proverbial light came on for my daughter in her technique striking the ball – and the excitement in her when she realized how powerfully she could strike the ball, for such a little thing!

Most of these moments I have to be satisfied with the video of the event that exists in my memory. (Thankfully, I have either a very accurate memory for this, or at least the proper mania to enjoy my memories as historically perfect!) Just occasionally, though, we get lucky, and catch something on real video. Here is one that I would like to share: my middle child’s first HS goal.

Anyway, while I do not have those other memories on video to share them with you, I will still cherish them every time I think about them. For this one, I am happy to be able to share with everyone one of those moments that we were fortunate enough to catch on video. (Special thanks to Kyle K. one of our HS soccer players, who did such a fine job manning the camera this day.)