Dribble Glass

Nothing but cart!

My family has always been one that is sports-based. My mother is a militant Eagles fan, and my father encouraged us to play as many sports as time would allow. This theory trickled down to my two sons. Kyle (6) has already played organized t-ball and soccer, and plays street hockey, lacrosse, and football in his free time. He wanted to sign up for basketball, and despite the fact that I don't care much for the sport, I wanted him to be exposed to everything, so he could see what he enjoys. His first practice for the "Grey Tigers" was last night.

His first game of the season was today.

Games are held in his school gym, and we arrived early. Kyle was wearing his grey t-shirt which sports the number 24 - Dad's old hockey number. With only thirty minutes of practice, I knew I wouldn't be watching Duke/North Carolina, but at least it would be entertaining.

It was pandemonium.

Imagine right six-year olds playing four-on-four for the first time. There was no dribbling, tons of fouls, and little scoring. Thankfully, the coaches and the referee kept control and helped the kids along. Kyle started, and played forward. His team got the ball first, and as they marched up the court, Kyle received his first pass, and immediately shot the ball. Off the rim, no good. They turned to ball over, and Kyle's team went on defense. Kyle was guarding the other teams' best shooter, and did a pretty good job. Obviously, his defense transferred fairly well from soccer.

In the end, the Grey Tigers lost the game, 4-2 - three baskets all game - and Kyle didn't score. He did have seven shots - he's a chucker! - and five of them bounced of the rim, but I was more proud of his defense. He had three steals and one block. Personal stats aside, he had a lot of fun, and that's really the point of the game.