Losing and Winning

Coaching is more difficult than I realized. Super Girl's soccer team has a ton of talent, but they lost again today because they just seemed a half step behind. They are without a single win and they really shouldn't be. Today they watched and walked at times when just a tad more drive would have produced game winning goals. It isn't all about winning -- do not get me wrong. For me, it is about making your best effort. One off day is fine, but this season they just are not bringing it.

Granted, they are in a tougher division due to dominating last season. I think the heavier competition is good for them. The thing that frustrates me is that these other teams that are beating them each weak are not that much more talented than this team. They are just playing with more heart. We have weak players that we could hide against teams that were not as talented. Now that we are in a more talented division our weaknesses are exploited. Ugh.

Wonder Boy's team has always lost games so he is happy to see Super Girl's team in a character building phase. If I were her brother I bet I'd feel that way too. Tomorrow both teams play at nearly the same time. I will be left to coach Wonder Boy's team alone in the second half. Hubby will coach Super Girl's team alone for the first half. Both teams will be short handed. What a confidence builder it would be for them all if we could squeak out some wins. If not, may we at least play with heart. I don't mind losing to superior skill, I just hate it when we give it away.

May tomorrow be a day where we play with heart and bring our best games. I don't care if we win, just please let us play well. Game on people! Let's DO IT!!

Above is a member of Super Girl's team, number erased to protect the innocent!

Update: Wonder Boy's team won! Super Girl's team came out to play and had a hard fought tie. I was proud of them both -- they played with heart and spirit. That is all you can hope for and enough to make it worth it! THIS is why we love soccer. We love when they play with heart. We love when the other team does as well. There is something wonderful that happens when teams are matched well and when parents on both sides are supportive. It is like magic. I am glad there was some magic in the air today!