I have been steadily invited to soccer games and tournaments locally as Nevin, Keely (until recently) and Collin displayed their skills. They all are really pretty good and limited only buy how much effort they want to put into the sport.
Kids grow in summer. I don’t know if it is sunshine, fresh-air, or just lots of exercise. Collin is approaching the height of his father and I hope he continues to stretch out and leave his dad in the dust.
Collin enters high school this fall and decided to “try out” for the Appleton North High School Freshman Soccer team. I don’t know if they call that “junior varsity” or not but making the team is a big deal. Last week he needed to report to high school at eight o’clock each morning to compete for the open positions (classes don’t actually start for several weeks).
Collin is better at soccer skills that he might know. He can do clever tricks with the ball using his feet. He knows “where the goal line is” and his dad has schooled him on soccer rules. He can kick with either foot. Last Wednesday was the decision day. It was the moment that all eager candidates for the freshman soccer team would learn their fate. Would Collin make it or not?
Well wouldn’t you know, Collin is now a member of the Appleton High Freshman team and his emphasis will be playing forward. Ain’t that something special.
There was one “mountain” to climb. Nevin played when he was a freshman and I know that he had a few disagreements with the coach. Nevin can be “colorful” at times so I know the coach remembered that Andrews’ kid. When Collin reported for soccer try-outs, I’m sure he dealt with the Andrews legacy. If you’ve been around Collin you would not have been concerned because his charismatic personally usually wins out.
Collin has already won. He took a chance. He tried out for something he really loves and he made the team. He will be good at what he does.
That entitles Collin to be a BMOC which as most of you know is Big Man on Campus. His classmates will know he plays soccer for the school and he has the official jerseys and jackets to prove it. Girls will be swooning at his feet.
So to Collin: congratulations! Don’t stop now. Be the best that you can be.
Love,
Grandpa Chuck