Soccer practice, soccer games, shin guards, soccer socks, cleats, treats and photos
When I was a kid, there wasn't much in the way of organized sports for kids. In the summer, there was always a coed pick-up game of kick ball, dodge ball or H-O-R-S-E going on in the neighborhood somewhere. We all had family memberships at a local lake that was within bicycling distance. I'm sure there was Little League for the boys, though I don't remember knowing any boys who played in a league. My bothers were big on hockey. While they did that, the rest of us raced on our skates from Point A to Point B, daring each other to go just a little closer to the treatment plant where the ice got thinner. Of course, in those days it was safe for our parents set free us from their supervision in the morning, without expecting to see us again till late in the afternoon. During the longer days of summer, our curfew was marked by the street lights that came on at dusk.
How different things are for us and our son. Soccer practice is scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 every Tuesday; matches are scheduled for every Saturday. Parents are expected to attend both every week. After the $35 sign up fee, we had to buy equipment--regulation ball, shin guards, soccer socks (2 pairs) and shoes--that costs roughly $85. This Saturday is picture day, with packages ranging from $45 to $115; I'm thinking the low-end package is OK for us. In addition, October 7th will be our turn to bring snacks and drinks for approximately 18 kids. I'm guessing that will be another $35. Before it's all over, we'll have put $200 into a six-week soccer season.
And, when soccer season is over, we'll be moving on to horseback riding lessions--$40 a week. Jack also wants to take Spanish, piano and guitar lessons. I'm thinking the kid needs a lemonade stand to support some of his exta-curricular activities!