Nothing makes my heart hurt more than seeing my children cry. I’m not talking about the whiney fit throwing cry when they don’t get their way, then they can cry all they want, I am immune (or, at the very least, I talk a good game). After the final soccer game with his Chelsea Blue team today, his coaches said incredibly kind words and wished our twelve-year-old, Trace, well on his journey. Trace accepted the words, the gifts and hugs with chin quivering and tears streaming down his face.
Trace is hit hardest, emotionally, with our move. He’s leaving the school he’s attended and friends he has made since first grade. He’s leaving the team and coaches he has played with for two years. He’s really just coming into his own and we’re yanking the rug out from under him. We are paying the price. The solemn looks, the anger, the frustration, the sadness and lots of tears have been given in heavy doses since we announced the move. Totally understandable but it doesn’t change our decision.
On the drive home today after the game, we talked about emotions. I told Trace I was proud of him for letting his emotions show, for crying and not holding in or masking his feelings. Trace said he loved playing with the team and his coaches are awesome. He appreciated his coach saying that whenever Trace is in town, he has an open invitation to play with the Chelsea team. He felt loved, his efforts appreciated.
Trace is looking forward to playing with FC Spokane. We arrive in Spokane on Friday and he will begin training on Monday. Trace has had great coaches over the years and has developed well with their training. We are excited to see how Trace’s game develops further with new coaches, a new team and new training.
When we first joined with Chelsea, (it was then JUSA Crew), I forewarned the coaches I was loud, I cheer words of encouragement, and I question the referees occasionally. The coach said he welcomed the entire family. To my credit, I haven’t gotten kicked out of a game or scolded by a referee. Yet. I didn’t happen to mention my sideline charm to the FC Spokane coaches. I’ll let this post be their fair warning. They will learn soon enough, plus I didn’t want to hurt Trace’s chances of getting on a team. Since we are so busy getting settled this summer, and I need time to learn all the boys names, I’m going to try really really hard to be mellow this summer and ease my way in with the fall season. Wishing myself luck with that plan.
I love watching Trace play soccer. I have loved his time spent with JUSA Crew/Chelsea Blue. Though it was a tear jerker for everyone watching, I am proud that he loves his team and coaches so much he needed to cry today. My maternal reaction when my kids cry is to run to them, hold them and comfort them. You know your kid is growing up when they reach out to his teammates for support and they are there to support him.
One final group hug, Trace called out the final team huddle and we left with well wishes from all. Thank you Andy and Dave for the time, energy, dedication, encouragement, love and support you gave to our son.
FC Spokane I hope you’re ready for Trace. He is a beast on the soccer field and emotionally in the game. And **BONUS** you got me on the sideline.
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