2006/2007 Soccer Wind-Up

Today we wrapped up David and Conbo's soccer seasons. A melancholy fog hung over the pitch, adding to the bittersweetness of the day. On one hand, it was nice to be done with the wet days and the organizing of Sugar-Pops-induced 5 & 6 year olds. On the other, the frantic state of getting into our gear and out of the house had become a familiar staple in our Saturday routine. The crazy kids had grown on me, too.
Connor's games (3 of them) went smoothly and as per usual until the third game where Connor turned into some never-before-seen goal-scoring machine. After scoring twice all year, Connor slotted two in the final game, taking his team on his back to victory. (Actually... I have no idea what the score was.) The first goal was especially beautiful. His run took him from his own goal area, down the left side like a gazelle, and right down to the other end where he smashed a left foot into the far corner. Where there's usually screams of delight, there was a silent awe because our cute - but usually just decorative - Connor had scored such a brilliant goal. It was a nice way to end his first season.
With the shortened games, David was uncharacteristically held of the scoresheets... until his final game. Inspired by playing against his good buddy, Simon, David tallied four goals before the final whistle. While his airplane celebrations were pretty entertaining, nothing got us all going as much as his goal-off-the-face. It wasn't pretty and neither was his face after the ball smashed against his nose. I'm pretty sure he considered crying until he realized the ball had found the back of the onion bag, at which time he turned and assumed the position - arms out wide as he swooped back to give a high five to his goalie. It's on to new challenges next year when he plays U8!