Our Stake has started an annual soccer tournament that is held toward the end of summer. It has been held the past couple of years and has grown in popularity. This year they lowered the age for the youth participants so that both David and Donovan are able to participate. This year, instead of doing ward vs ward teams they have taken the boys and split them between all the teams so that the kids get to meet some kids from the other wards in the stake. It also helps to reduce the competitive nature of some kids (and their parents). After all, since this is church ball we want it to be a great experience for everyone.
David turned out to be the star of his team. He scored all eight points in the first three soccer games. However, that burst of energy drained him for the championship game. Fortunately, his teammates stepped up to score their four points to win the tournament.
Donovan was instrumental in his team's victories. His coach called him "stonewall" because no one could get past him. Wherever the ball went Donovan was there to stop them. He seems to have a natural ability to sense where the ball is head and to meet the ball there on defense.
As luck would have it, David and Donovan played on the same team so they were champions together. I was pleased with their sportsmanship and soccer skills. They may both have a future playing soccer.
