See Mason Play Soccer.

Mason has a range of skills. During his first few games, he amazed us with his defense. He figured out where to go to block the ball. He was aware of the other team and where they were going and he has a great long distance sprint to get in front of the ball. At another game he surprised us by loving the assist. He managed to pass the ball right where his teammate needed it to score. But all in all, Mason is loving playing soccer. His team is Hilarious and its so much fun to watch them figure out how to play the game.

"Do I see a -(gasp)- It is a ball."

Life of the Younger brother. Dragged to siblings soccer games and not allowed to play.

"Mom, please let me out. I promise I will only try to run out onto the field when the ball and all the players are running towards me."

Whatever Mattie is saying is clearly more important than little Sammie back there breaking down the field and making a goal.

Whistling practice can and should take place anywhere.

Sunset over the Field Outhouses0

Now I should point out that this last game Mason didn't do so well. In fact, for most of the game, he hung back and hesitated running at the ball. That's because at the beginning of the game, little Mattie got caught in the shuffle of kids trying to get the ball, and boy can that girl fight. She managed to get the ball out of the group but she was pushed over in the processes. Then came Mason, he didn't see Mattie fall to the ground, all he saw was the free ball and he kicked it. It was a solid kick, caught just enough air to nail Mattie square in the face. Mattie was fine, she didn't cry and she bounced back really quickly, but Mason knew exactly what happened and he almost burst into tears. Since that moment he didn't attack the ball. What was great though was the next moment they were on the sidelines together Mason sat down by his teammate and apologized for hitting her with the ball. Mattie put her arm around him and pat him on the back, telling him it's okay.
Kids are quite amazing, don't you think?