Go Cheetahs - A Look Back At Lauren's First Soccer Experience!

This past fall, Lauren had her first team sports experience.  We registered her for soccer through VSA (Virginia Soccer Association).  She was part of the Cheetahs and played her games at Long Park, in Haymarket.

Her coach was awesome and the kids were all great.  They practiced at 5:30, on Tuesday evenings, and had games on Saturdays.  The set-up was perfect.  Each practice and game was a half hour, which worked out great with the kids attention spans.  As part of the organization, the kids were required to wear shin guards, cleats, and uniforms.  Lauren was very excited to shop for her gear!!

Lauren also enjoyed being on the team and certainly had fun playing in the games.  But we aren't sure that she will stick with soccer as she gets older.  She danced around the field and ran along with all of the other players, but she was very hesitant to actually get in the fray and kick the ball.  And many times, she would stop in front of the ball and tell another player to go first.  Many times, Chad and I were finding it hard not to yell out "KICK THE BALL" from the sidelines.  While we certainly appreciate her polite behavior, we hope that she develops a more competitive edge in the sports realm.

                     

           

And true to form, Charlie also enjoyed Lauren's soccer practices and games.  During the practice, he was able to play in her bag and drink from her water bottle.  During the games, he helped himself to her snacks and after game treat!!

For a first experience, we were very happy with the VSA soccer youth soccer program.  Lauren has already expressed an interest in doing soccer again, so we will be signing her up again this spring or summer.  And hopefully we can work on that competitive side!