Not-So-Random Act of Kindness

This past Saturday was E's final soccer game of the season.  One of the girls on her team has made tremendous gains in her soccer skills over the course of the season.  She hadn't, however, managed to score a goal. 

As the game was about to end, the young lady in the white jersey set up a plan to let "D" score a goal.  They didn't give it to her; but created an opportunity where she could do it.  E threw the ball in from the sidelines and D intercepted it.  She dribbled it toward the goal, then gave it a good kick.  It went in!  Her teammates...and the opposing team...shouted cheers for her.  When D realized what had just happened, her face lit up and she started to cry.  That loving act, organized by a small group of girls, helped make a memory for D that will last forever. 

There weren't too many dry eyes on that field that afternoon.  I'm thankful I was able to witness it happening. 

E has participated in Upward sports for several years now, and we've seen similar acts before.  One of the blessings of working with Upward is that they teach good sportsmanship and teamwork, rather than focusing on winning at all costs. 

Upward Basketball - Week 2

What a game we had today!

Princess E made her first goal of the season!  Way to go girl!
Is this picture not the funniest thing?  It looks like they were posing for a movie poster.  The three girls in the front, representing two teams, running together side-by-side.  Notice they all have their left foot forward.  Notice that their arms are in basically the same positions as well.  (Notice that two of the three are completely airborne, too.)  When I saw this image, I couldn't help but think of Charlie's Angels from my childhood.  I blurred the other girls' faces for the sake of their privacy. 

Now in this next picture, you can tell she's really concentrating on moving that ball.  I call her the Dribbling Princess.  One of these days, she's not going to think that is funny anymore.  Ha!

She was sure trying hard to catch the rebound here.  This was just before she make her basket.  Woot!  Woot!

This last one struck me as pretty funny, too.  It looks like she and the referee were dancing to the same music.  Only, she stuck her index finger straight out and he curled his.  She had just thrown the ball in from the sidelines.  Notice the sign of concentration...mouth open, tongue stuck out.  It was just too funny when I downloaded the camera. 

It's been another great week of basketball.  I continue to be surprised by the improvements in her skills since last season.

Basketball

From the first game of the 2010 season. Go Upward!

So much has changed since last season.  You are taller for one thing.  You are doing much better with dribbling, passing and guarding the ball.  You even stole the ball a couple of times, which you've never done before!  Your shots at the goal, while they didn't go in, were much better than last year.  One even circled the rim.  We are proud of you for your effort and for your good sportsmanship.  You earned a red star today for "best defense".  Way to go!!

Great job Princess E!!!