Don't forget the snacks!

October 22, 2011: Week Six: Don’t forget the snacks!

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Each week a parent is assigned to distribute snacks and drinks to the team players so that the little ones can refuel after the game. Guess whose turn it is this week? I wish this league had a snack stand similar to the one at my nieces’ soccer games. Bagels, burgers, hot dogs, coffee, hot chocolate, you name it; they have it. Apparently, their league is a tad bit more sophisticated than ours.

I hope I do not get short–term amnesia and forget the snacks. I must write myself a reminder on post-it notes and place them all over the house. A riot of disorderly four year olds may ensue if there is a shortage of treats. 

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It's an eventful week here at the soccer club. In addition to the snack list, each parent must also participate in selling raffles to benefit their child’s team. Did I mention that our team name is the “Scorpions”? Hint, hint, would you like to buy a raffle? We have the privilege of wearing Freddy’s favorite color: green. And yet this does not influence him to play whatsoever.

Soccer apparel is being sold as well. Pressure is placed on parents to buy at least one item. So a blue t–shirt it is. Did I mention that this is not all fun and games?

Freddy continues to expose his reluctance to participate. Even with nudging from his coaches and their promises to escort him each step of the way to score a goal, he kicks up his heels in refusal. His feisty little attitude could knock you over. Anyone who has been around a four year old long enough knows exactly what I am speaking of.

I recognize that Freddy has absolutely zero desire to play soccer for whatever reason, it is not his forte. And that is fine with me but I have to fulfill my commitment to bring snacks, sell raffles, and buy t–shirts, so that is where my focus is positioned this week.

It can become stressful at times; the running around, and the participation required of a parent.  Sometimes I look forward to the end of the weekend and the busyness of it all. As Monday rolls around and school is back in session, it seems much more tranquil, believe it or not.

Our involvement with this soccer league is a good release. Although demanding, it facilitates the identification with other parents and the ability to connect with them. Many of our children attend preschool together and are in the same class.

I am recalling a conversation I engaged in with my dad in Week One where he stressed the point of not forcing Freddy to play. “Let him develop at his own pace”. This phrase stings my ears and echoes through my mind roaming around endlessly trying to find a permanent home in my brain.  

As I worked my way through a stressful weekend, I did not forget the snacks, raffles, or apparel.

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Way to go mom!