… a SOCCER MOM!

This is Ryder’s first official experience with team sports of any kind.  We signed him up for soccer through Ripon’s Parks & Rec program because it’s a little cheaper than Modesto’s youth league, and the games are always at the same park (which is closer to our house than many of the parks in Modesto).  Plus, our neighbor and my niece are on his team, and his auntie is the coach.  For his age group, they don’t keep score, and don’t even have goalies.  It’s more about learning the basics of the game and having fun.

Several weeks ago, we bought some new-to-us cleats, and Ryder has been obsessed with “trying on his soccers shoes.”  Then last week, we picked up some shin guards, and he literally won’t take them off.

Practice was quick and smooth, and everyone seemed to have fun.  They warmed up…

learned to kick with the right part of their foot, and practiced passing to a partner…

and tried dribbling in and out of cones.

Some of my most treasured experiences growing up included always having my parents in the stands cheering me on.  Their unconditional support motivated me to do my absolute best.  And I’m practically giddy about being able to do the same for my boys.  I don’t know if he’ll love soccer enough to continue playing season after season… maybe he’ll choose karate or baseball or football or dance.  But whatever he chooses, I’m already proud of him, and I’m really looking forward to being his number one fan.

So let me ring in my soccer mom career by saying GO GOLDEN NUGGETS!!!