Of An Away Game

One of the things we were resigned to experiencing this soccer season was having to get up early and deal with all the logistics of playing an Away Game on Waiheke Island. After three seasons of home games, this 10th Grade has a home/away format.So something new to learn about.The dreaded day arrived. Up at 6am to get the kids processed (yes, I process them in an organised fashion!) and then out the door at 7am to be across town at the Ferry by 7:40am.Made it.It was actually pretty cool seeing the team (10 nine year old boys), the parents and the coaches feeling energised and enthusiastic.The day dawned beautiful. The crossing to the Island was smooth sailing and we were greeted on the other side by the local mum squad, who then taxied us all to the grounds.And what magnificent grounds! Nestled between hills and vineyards, a perfect surface. The sun was streaming and the whole effect was one of, “Why have I not done this before”?The game itself was pulsating. 1-0 to us (Fencibles, 10th Grade team ‘Manchester City’) at half-time, but the boys were flagging. An injection of oranges and they perked up and were off racing for the second half.Then something extraordinary happened.My son scored. From the mid-field. The ball came his way and he hoofed it. It went up, down, bounced, over the keeper, and in.Parents and coaches and kids alike actually squealed.We’re not sure who was more surprised. This was his third career goal. And he was absolutely shocked that it went in. But he’ll take that.Final score, 2-1 to us. And my son was awarded Player Of The Day. It doesn't really get any better than that!One of the Waiheke mums gave us a container full of baking to enjoy on the ferry home. Such hospitality and grace.I think I’m turning in to a proper Soccer Dad. This was a fun day. Although the last 10 minutes of waiting for fulltime was horrendous.- S