Soccer Firsts

Jason and I signed Cody and Jaden up to play on a spring soccer team this year, their first ever team sports experience. We figured that they would appreciate having something special just for them once baby sister is born. After seeing them at their first practice and game this week, we are so glad that we made this decision. The boys absolutely loved it!

At their first practice, Coach Nunez had all the kids (mostly boys but a couple girls too) warm up with some stretches. Jaden and Cody took everything their coach told them VERY seriously.

The coach had the kids practice dribbling their own ball up and down the field,

and then take turns kicking goals.

The kids then played a mini-scrimmage (basically so they'd get used to all running around after just one ball). Then, the coach ended with some more individual kicking & shooting drills.

Following the practice, Jaden happily proclaimed that "Coach Nunez is the best coach EVER!" Cody emphatically announced that his favorite part of the practice was "the water break!"

After just one practice, the boys' first game was held only a few days later. This seemed to be a smart idea for 4 and 5 year olds. Jaden and Cody were still on a "soccer high" after their practice and were very excited about playing in their first game. Jason and I thought both boys looked very grown up in their jerseys and cleats!

Cody -- number 10

Jaden -- number 8

One fun thing about having twins on the same team is that the coach chose to play Cody and Jaden at alternating times, so that meant that we always had a child on the field to watch! It made the game even more enjoyable! Here was team position for the first kick-off. They all look very prepared, don't they? So funny. 

The first game ended up being a great experience for Jaden and Cody. They both loved it! We were proud that the boys weren't afraid to run up to the ball and kick it rather than simply run after their teammates. Cody was definitely our fast and furious player, while Jaden seemed to be a bit more methodical about his playing. Here are a smattering of pics from their game.

At some point during the game, each of our boys had a goal-shooting attempt (Cody had at least a couple) but both missed. We were proud of them for their efforts.

Jaden was a very focused player! :)

Jaden got to do a couple of the kick-ins from the goal line. His determined face as he did so cracked me up!

We were thankful to have some family member fans out to support and cheer on Jaden and Cody. Isaiah was even sporting a soccer sweatshirt. So cute! Thanks, Grammy, Papa, Chelsea, and Isaiah for being wonderful fans!

The boys' team, the Pirates, ended up winning by quite a few goals, thanks to a couple of stand-out players on their team. Jaden and Cody didn't really seem to care about who won, however. They loved recapping their own game plays about how they stopped the ball or passed it to another player. It will be fun to see their progress as the season goes on. We are thankful they seemed to have such a good time. We are proud of our little soccer players!