Bend it like Beckham

Our little future David Beckham made his soccer debut this morning for the YMCA Red Tigers! Ryan participated in one practice before the big game, so I wasn't really sure what to expect. I just wanted him to have a good time - and show some interest in running around with the other kids instead of doing somersaults or picking grass!

He was really excited to put on his shin guards and soccer cleats this morning. He was running around the house in full gear about two hours before we needed to leave. He was even more excited when he checked in with his coach and received his official Red Tigers t-shirt.

He did a great job. Here he is kicking the ball:

Don't be deceived by the above video. He spent most of his time running around aimlessly, diving on the grass. He tackled a child once, but after a reminder that it isn't a contact sport, he kept his hands to himself! Here's what he really looked like during most of the game:

The team was short a few players this morning, so Ryan got a lot of playing time. The games are divided into six, 7-minute periods. Each child is supposed to play three of the segments. Ryan played the first five in a row and came running over to the sidelines towards the end of the fifth period and said he was tired and thirsty. He spent the rest of the game on my lap drinking water.

So, the first game was a success. He may not have scored a goal, but he had the biggest cheering section by far: Grandma Barb and Grandpa Pat, Grandpa Fred, Grandma Kay, Uncle Joe, Uncle Dave and Jessica, and Uncle Brian and Megan!!