Starting Soccer

On top of starting kindergarten, Eric started soccer also. The other kids got a chance to try out every sport when they when they were in kindergarten, so we want Eric to have the same experience. Patrick signed him up at our local CYO and also signed himself up to be his coach. The first practice was the Tuesday before school started, but Patrick didn't get any photos then. He took these photos this past Tuesday, the Tuesday after school started.

I love this first photo because Anthony is trying to get his little brother's cleats on, but Eric seems to be insisting on "helping". Anthony helped out at the first soccer practice, but he wasn't there for the second one because he was resting his leg. Apparently, some of the kids asked where "the other coach" (meaning Anthony) was. That is so cute! Eric also noticed at the second practice that one of the girls on his team is also in his kindergarten class. Alex says maybe another one or two are also in Eric's class.

Eric was apparently thrilled with all of the pictures that his Papa was taking. He told Patrick that this was the last picture. That was my fault since I'm always with Natalie at her swim team practice and I haven't been able to see Eric playing soccer yet. Patrick was only trying to do what I asked.

Patrick is a great coach and wants the kids to basically play during practice to get used to moving the ball around and get comfortable with the ball. At least one of the parents seems to be a bit competitive, but hopefully all of the kids will still be able to enjoy themselves. That's what it's all about at this age.

Eric's first game will supposedly be this coming Saturday. We'll see how that will work with Anthony's cross country meet also this coming Saturday. I know Natalie is looking forward to seeing Eric play soccer, because she says "He's so small and cute!"