Once a week Natalya and Daddy got to go into Elgin for soccer training. The early cut off for kids was three years old so Natalya was one of the younger kids and with so many older, and rougher kids (especially the five and six year old boys) she was often intimidated when the actual games were being held. However, she did very well in her practice and skills sessions and was always very proud of herself. One of the best things for her is that her friend, Alex was there to help and he was great. He took her under his wing, made sure she was OK and doing fine. He helped her and encouraged her. Without Alex I think we'd probably have only gone to one soccer lesson, but with Alex there she was always sure to go. The one session when they were in different groups was a tough one for Natalya and we left early.
Natalya enjoyed herself overall and did the skills at her own speed and usually at speeds comparable to the older kids. However she didn't always get the concepts of some of the games, especially the team games. Still she always wanted to go back. I finally remembered the camera on the last day, which was a game. The session went a little longer because the game was a 0:0 tie until finally Alex scored the winning goal for Natalya's team. Not that she noticed and the highlights to her was when the coach called timeout for a drinks break. Still, I'm very proud of my little girl and she says she wants to go back next year. At the end of the game they all recieved a medal of which Natalya is very proud.
Natalya and Alex playing defence
Natalya rushing over for her water bottle
The kids all cheering after the game
The proud medalists
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