First soccer game

Thomas was reluctant to go to his first soccer game this morning, which is no surprise since the actual playing the game part is what he is struggling with.  He is saying he is scared, but can't put into words what is scary about it.  Thomas needs time to process things before he reacts.  He likes to observe and really think before he acts.  Soccer is so fast paced and quick reaction time is essential that by the time Thomas processes everything and is ready to react, they are onto the next play.

The game started and he just stood in one spot on the field nervously picking at his nails, which he does when he is nervous.  Can you spot him in the picture below?  It is so hard to watch.  My heart is breaking for him and you just know there are other parents wondering what the heck he is doing.  As his mommy, I had to fight the instinct to run and swoop him up to save him from those uncomfortable feelings, but I know in the long run these challenges will only help him grow.

His coach did get him involved when he could by choosing him to do most of the offside kicks and face offs, which he has no problem with.  I reached out to his coach at the beginning of the season to inform him of some of the difficulties Thomas might have due primarily to his spd.  He has no problem talking on the field.  By the end of the game, you could see he was gaining some confidence and started running a little bit with the kids.  When the game ended, he came off the field smiling and was really proud of himself.  We were too.  Some people who know about Thomas's SM and SPD asked if we will continue the season if he has trouble with it.  Our answer is "Yes, absolutely!"  He may never be a star soccer player (or maybe he will) but he is trying his best and is the bravest one out there in our mind.  He is learning new skills and teamwork while facing challenges and isn't that what sports are all about?