A few weeks back, the twins participated in their very first soccer tournament. Our local TOPS soccer club participates in a regional tournament with five or six other clubs every fall. It was actually the first time they had ever played a game (usually we just practice drills and following directions with their coach on Sundays).
It was a long, long drive. That was strike one for the twins. And because my truck was having some minor issues, we ended up going in Daddy's work truck. Not nearly as comfortable, particularly for the twins in the crew cab back seat.
It was also an early start to our day, which normally is not a problem, but of course was on this particular day. It never fails, the twins are up early every single day that you don't want them to be. They notoriously sleep late on every single day you need to leave early. It's just how it is.
It was a really long day for them. The drive, then the opening parade, then the first game, then a lunch break, carnival games and bounce houses, and then a second game. I have to say the tournament was an amazing event - well coordinated, well attended and impressive for how many different special needs that were being accommodated.
All in all, I'm calling it a success. We made it. The boys participated, with some resistance, but actually participated. They practiced with their teammates, they allowed us to help direct them on the field during the game, and they stayed on the field the entire game.
Xander took the ball toward the goal several times. He ran hard and played hard, with some gentle prodding. Sawyer, who is less a fan of the ball or running, was happy to support the goalie as a defender. We stopped a few good plays, and he didn't complain too loudly.
All participants received medals, tee shirts and water bottles. The medal ceremony was a bit much, just because it came at the end of a long day, but they made it all the way through.
And, of course, we stopped at Wendy's on our way back home. That helped. That was part of our normal routine.
"Soccer first, then Wendy's" ... as Xander would say.
Additional photos are here.
