In basketball, Beckam did as Beckam does. He followed his coaches instructions to a T and was happy to participate in practices and games. After his first game, he told me that he was so mad -- I figured it had to do with not getting the ball as much but when I asked him why he was mad he explained, "Because Talan got to sit out twice and I only got to sit out once!"
Needless to say, we're still working on releasing that "go get 'em" competitive spirit on the playing field/court with Beck, but we did see progress as the season went on. To motivate Beck a bit I had promised him a sweatband of his choice if he made a basket during the game. Happy to say that the pictures don't lie -- he got that basket and later told me that he had a hard time not smiling through the rest of the game because he was so happy. Love that little guy SO much and I loved seeing him try hard and succeed.
Jaxton, on the other hand, we often have to tell him to ease up a bit. He's fast, he's aggressive and he understands the game better than most his age. It definitely helps him having an older brother who is obsessed with all things basketball. Jax enjoyed this league and loved keeping track of his points, steals and assists.
After one of Jax's games, a lady came down from the stands, put out her hand to Jaxton and said, "I just want to shake the hand of a future NBA star. You have everything it takes to get there and I just want to be able to say that I met you and shook your hand." Jax beamed for a good hour afterward.
In the county league Jax and Beck played on the same team. Jaxton did a great job of mentoring Beck and looking out for him, even though Beck is just about as tall as Jax. I loved watching Jaxton pass the ball to Beck, cheer him on and give him pointers throughout the game.
The team had a definite winning season and those trophies were well-deserved!
Jaxton also played with Mac on the city team with Nate as their coach. Mac was happy to have Jaxton on the team and they could often be found outside practicing plays and chest bumps for their upcoming game.
Mac had a super successful county season. He loved his games and practices each week and kept up his own several hour long practices at home on his own each day.
He played point guard in both leagues and seems to love this position the best. He enjoys taking the ball down the court and is a great shooter and defender. Mac has also mastered dribbling in between his legs and behind his back, which became some of his signature moves.
Doing what Mac does best . . .
Mac had a great coach who was always so positive with him. Coach Clem told us on several occasions that he couldn't decide if Mac was the next Michael Jordan or Larry Bird (no pressure, buddy). He helped Mac keep his emotions in check, encouraged him and challenged him. Coach Clem said that of all the kids he has ever coached, Mac has not only the most talent, but also the work ethic, the knowledge, the love and teachability of a great ball player.
Okay, I think I'm done tooting my children's horns.
Next up, baseball!
No comments:
Post a Comment