It was jamboree weekend for the boys hockey team this weekend. Rick took photos of a couple of games. He gave me all 500 images... each at full resolution. He smiles when he hands them to me knowing I'll have to go through, pick my favorites and then knock them all down in size to be able to post them.
Typically we don't keep score at our games yet. But they have started these jamborees to give the players a chance to experience what it will feel like to play in a game one day. Not only did they skate all the way up and down the ice, but the music was turned on (loud) and there were mini-refs on the ice learning the game from an official angle and calling off-sides on our rather confused kids.
In the coaching circles a lot of strategy comes into play. With the excitement and energy ramped up, the expectations rise too. The players learn that victories have a sweet taste to them and make you hunger for more. And for Nolan's team they learned that losing just plain feels bad. My heart hurt a bit when Nolan told me his thoughts at the end of the tournament. "Mom" he said. "I was just trying so hard. I kept telling myself to do more. But I didn't know what that was? Do you know what I can do?"
I was a little silenced by the weight of his questions for an 8 year old. We always say he isn't listening to us. Not only was he asking us thoughtful questions, he was telling us he was ready to listen to our responses.
I told him maybe taking last place and losing 3 out of 4 games was just meant to be, regardless of hard work. Sometimes luck plays a role too. And lots of things we can't control. But as long as he believed and worked hard, he would win at some point. Plus, maybe there was a really big win in his future. But that the only way to find out was to keep trying hard. We also had a good chat about how when he is older, it won't be the winning and losing he remembers nearly as much as the fun and the friendships. I was on a little bit of a soapbox when I realized my little hockey player had drifted off to sleep.
Ahh ha ha....just reminds you that he still is just a little boy doesn't it... Great pics!
ReplyDeleteYes! But then I notice these subtle changes in him at the same time and I think "when did start thinking about THAT? "
ReplyDeleteThe tourney was great. Fun was had by all. I know that Nolan took it hard. It all started with the first game. Had it not been Gavin's turn in the goal and someone more skilled in the goal we could have pulled it off.
ReplyDeleteLet's hope for a real big win for the future.
Your words to Nolan were perfect. Too bad he fell asleep in the end! LOL
Oh it wasn't Gavin's fault at all. He has to have a little D playing in front of him too! They'll get there. We'll have to put our heads together to help build the team concept with them. Maybe we can plan a fun outing or gathering where they can bond to each other a little bit. Have you had a chance to work on your blog yet?
ReplyDeleteOh my heavens, that was so sweet... I'm obviously not a born and raised hockey girl, though, because while you're all commenting about goalies and defense all I'm thinking of is the sweet little face that fell asleep during a pep talk :)
ReplyDelete"I was on a little bit of a soapbox when I realized my little hockey player had drifted off to sleep."
ReplyDeleteSublime.
Pretty Sara, the biggest irony to me is I am not a born and raised hockey girl either, but the two boys have required me to be so many things I never dreamt for myself : )
ReplyDeleteCharlie, what a pleasant surpise. I'm excited to come back and explore your writing. Your dedication to your craft shows and will no doubt continue to keep many of us keeping on!
ReplyDeleteVicky how sweet that he drifted off...I bet you'll be telling him that story when he's grown with kids of his own! Your Rick sure does take great pictures. Impressive. Love to you and please bundle up today!!!
ReplyDeleteRobin, I'm not planning on leaving the house :) Colton still has his fever :( We're in for the long haul...
ReplyDelete