Sports Girl Abby

We decided to sign Abby up for a community sports class this summer. The class was held every Friday morning at 8 am for 7 weeks. Abby loved playing the sports (Soccer, T-Ball, and Basketball) and also loved getting to play with some new friends. Friday was affectionately labeled "Sports Day" this summer and Abby became our "Sports Girl".

The class for Holly's age group filled up too quickly so she missed out this time. But she was a great cheerleader for Abby and enjoyed sitting on the sidelines watching.

Abby got her own little sports shirt to wear each week, which made her feel pretty important and special. I was amazed at how old she looked with her pony tail, running up and down the field. My little girl is growing up and I couldn't be more proud!

It wasn't as important to me that she learned new skills in sports, although it is a great way to develop coordination and movement, but I thought the class would give her good practice listening to another adult giving directions. I think the "coach" (the teenage boy shown in the picture above, named Jesse) spent more time explaining to the kids how to line up and wait for their turn than he did actually teaching any sports skills. It was pretty frustrating for him, but entertaining for us parents. One time he told the kids to line up single file behind a ball. The kids obviously didn't understand what "line up" meant because they all clustered closely together in a huddled circle around the ball. I had to laugh. By the end of the class, though, the kids had learned important skills like lining up, taking turns, good sportsmanship, and trying their best.

One or two of the other children sort of bullied the other kids around. Not intentionally, I don't think, but they just weren't respectful of others feelings and sometimes ran over other kids in their carelessness. I was so proud to watch Abby try her best and do well, but not forget her manners and kindness in the process. She has such a kind and gentle heart. I am thankful that she got to have this fun experience.