Doing Nothing is Doing Something

A few weeks ago, our service group arrived at Masterson Station Soccer Park to find very few players present at practice.  Janice informed us that the previous Saturday many of LYSA TOPSoccer’s players had participated in a soccer tournament in Ohio and would not be attending practice that day.  In fact, my team’s practice had been canceled.  

Participants receiving their medals!
(LYSA TopSoccer, 2012)
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Janice informed us about the tournament that had taken place the day before.  She said many of the teams had done exceptionally well and had received medals.  Janice recalled how the clinging of medals around the children’s necks had made them all so happy.  I enjoyed listening to Janice’s stories about the tournament.  It made me happy to know that LYSA TOPSoccer players had done so well in the tournament and received the medals they had clearly earned through their hard work and perseverance throughout the season.

TopSoccer player dribbling the ball.
(LYSA TopSoccer, 2012)
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After we had heard all the stories concerning the day before, we helped plan a Halloween party for the end of the season.  Janice was overjoyed when we said we would be happy to help set up and run the Halloween party.  She talked about how much the children love festivities and celebrations.  She said they enjoy games and the small goodie bags they are traditionally given at such events, but most of all, they cherish the trophies they receive at the Halloween party for the soccer season.  She believes such awards give the children a sense of accomplishment.  I agree with this statement.  These children work especially hard on and off the field to accomplish what comes more naturally to others.  They deserve to be rewarded as such.

After leaving the soccer field, I was slightly disappointed by the fact that it seemed as though we had not accomplished anything that day.  However, I realized I had gained a new perspective on how much the game of soccer means to LYSA TOPSoccer participants and how dedicated the volunteers, such as Janice, are to the players.  

I look forward to the rest of the season and the upcoming Halloween party!  

References

1. LYSA TopSoccer, 2012, Retrieved fromhttps://www.facebook.com/128192516717/photos/pb.128192516717.-2207520000.1446436005./10150812518166718/?type=3&theater

2. LYSA TopSoccer, 2012, Retrieved from https://www.facebook.com/128192516717/photos/pb.128192516717.-2207520000.1446436005./10150804346546718/?type=3&theater