Buddha the Soccer Super Star!

The following shots are from Buddha's first soccer game just a few weeks ago. I think it was a roaring success. Buddha even scored a goal! These kids are hilarious to watch, I tell ya. They are as varied in their soccer skills as they are in their appearance, height, and age. Some shuffle about the field, here and there, following the ball half-heartedly. Others charge into every melee, making themselves the center of the swarm-that-is-called-soccer. Still others dance down the field, completely oblivious to the drama being played out around them and to their parents' shouted pleas to "pay attention!" Buddha, much to his father's chagrin, is one who tends to be easily distracted. :D I rather like to think of him as frequently inspired. You shall see what I mean . . . .


They are the Cheetahs. Or as Buddha emphatically insists, the "Orange Cheetahs."



This rabble-rousing pre-game cheer is Buddha's favorite part of this whole soccer experience. Can you tell?



I LOVE this shot. Boy on left: "Hey, what's up?!" Buddha: "Who are you? *glare* *glare* *glare*" Can you feel the team love? :D



Buddha is learning, even at this early date in his soccer career, how invaluable a talent it is to fake an injury during play. Seriously though, don't you just love the expression on his face?!



Here he goes! He's breaking away, folks!



And he shoots! And scores! GOOOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!! (Cross my fingers and hope to die, I actually did catch this right as he was about to kick the blessed goal). Wish I would have caught his expression afterward!



On the sidelines again. Substitutions, you know. He's entertaining himself by plucking up grass.



And they're off in the opposite direction after a restful four-minute half-time! :D



Again with the faces. This one says, "Ewwwww! There's something icky on your cheek! I'm not coming one step closer to that ball!"



Ah, and here he is mastering the art of grass-plucking . . . and blowing . . . during his soccer game. *Big sigh from The Chief*



Check out that form!



Time to wrap things up.



Good sportsmanship is always an important lesson. Reeeach just a little farther, Buddha buddy.



Cheering on the opposing team at the end of the game. A gesture I love that my son is learning.



Yeah Orange Cheetahs! The end.


Note: When commenting, please remember to refer to my family members by their pseudonyms to help protect their privacy. Thank you!