This year, we cautiously decided it was time and after consulting with our oldest son who was turning 10 we opted to put him on a regular U10 team here in AYSO Region 68. I have to admit we were scared, worried he wouldn’t fit in with the other boys, or play well enough – but after watching a practice and the first game I came to realize the importance of his place on the team. It wasn’t to be the best player; it was to teach his teammates what it means to pick up the slack for a weaker team member.
Our son got everything out of this season AYSO “Region 68 enthusiastically supports” from its website –
- Registration was open to him
- He played every game, was on time and enthusiastic
- He was on a balanced team, and had many talented and supportive teammates
- He received positive coaching
- He developed skills he did not have prior to playing this season
The parents and kids on the team were highly supportive, although I don’t know that all of them knew of my son’s official diagnosis of autism – all were supportive of him none the less. The most important point of all - my son enjoyed himself, and being part of the team.
His team did well, so well in fact despite my son’s deficits and skills on the field went undefeated until the championship game and were even invited to the Regional playoffs. It was at this point we saw our only unfortunate behavior – when his assistant coach suggested he be ‘late’ or ‘sick’ so his team members would have a better chance of winning.
As Muhammed Ali said – “The will must be stronger than the skill.”
Thanks to all in our community that truly believe in character above shelves of trophies.
