2013 has definitely had its ups and downs, but overall we have been so blessed by family, friends and teammates. I wish you all a Happy New Year!!!
January-
I started off the year with the word “tired”- maybe not the greatest way to begin, but completely true after our trip to England and France. I didn’t share any details until later, but here’s my post on Arsenal, Arsenal, Arsenal!
We also traveled to Las Vegas for the annual Vegas Cup tournament. Fun was had by all, but I definitely learned a few things that I’m hoping to improve upon this year!
February-
BSG had a not so pleasant encounter with her new Penny Board and broke a bone in her finger. She had to miss a long three weeks of soccer, but was able to return for part of National Cup.
April-
April was a month where I was reminded that the only constant is change…especially in club soccer. Looking back now, all the angst over staying, going and changes really isn’t that important. Making the best choices for our kids and learning not to take things so personally are important lessons for me! Although change is hard, LSG has is loving her new team! Should I stay or should I go?
Continuing on the theme of “team” I wrote a two part article about how the SCDSL and ECNL are changing the definition of team in Southern California. Clubs continue to consolidate and it’s obvious that this is the new landscape of So Cal girls soccer. I’m not sure if it’s good or bad, but it’s certainly happening!
May-
Springtime is a time of renewal, rebirth and.. summer tournament planning! This can often be difficult for a new manager/coach/team so I wrote about some of my favorites in Summer Tournament Planning. Please let me know if you have any you’d like me to add!
Spring 2013 was also the time for the “birth” of the California Regional League by Cal South. Here are the initial details in California Regional League- Another New League? I added a Part II later in July.
June-
June was a fun month filled with Goats! BSG had a great time joining FC Goats for the Swallows Tournament. Read all about the awesomeness in Who’s that Goat?
July-
After some time off in June, the girls were back at it with some serious beach training. I was impressed by both of their endurance and dedication in Beach Training…Feel the Burn.
I also wrote some hints about how to pack for a weekend tournament. It sounds like a lot of stuff, but it’s definitely easier to be prepared! Any other ideas of things to add?
September-
Yep, it’s another new league! This one is for the “sister teams” of the ENCL teams. It’s a brilliant idea actually and is one that further solidifies the reach of the ECNL clubs. I write about it in Seriously? Another New League- the EGSL.
October-
I had fun creating these player cards for my girls… Fun Soccer Moms Stuff- Starr Playing Cards.
In a popular post, I wrote about driving distance to practice and games in Driving, How Far would you Go? Seems like many of us are prepared to go a long way!
I also wrote about my thoughts on the SCDSL in our second year participating.
November-
I needed a laugh so I linked again to my favorite college soccer girls with If you had fun, you won?! I also linked to a great article about the importance of winning in youth sports.
I shared our strategy for Homework on the Go- the Homework Box.
December-
For all of you new to club soccer in Southern California, I shared about State Cup and National Cup. I’m gearing up for fun filled weekends in Lancaster?…Apple Valley?…San Diego?(Please!)