The holidays are now past us, and for the next few weeks, we settle down into a regular 5 day routine (at least, after we all take apart and store our Sukkah's - the last event from the holidays!).

Soccer wise, we are now firmly in the 2nd half of the season, having just finished our 6th session in a row.  Today was a great soccer day - mid 50's, not windy - and while it was overcast in the beginning of the session, the Sun came through at the end, warming up the field.  As the fields typically do, they start out moist due to the dew, and dry off by the end.

Phil from NOGA was out today, his replacement Scott did not miss a beat in getting the kindergartners and 1st graders started off playing some of the mini-games while teaching them the soccer fundamentals.  After their instruction, the kindergartners and 1st graders split off into separate games.  Based on the cheering and yelling that emanated from each of their respective fields, they clearly were enjoying their games.

The second and third graders immediately started playing a game (after taking some target practices on the coaches, I mean, warming up!!)  Coach Scott joined the 2nd and 3rd graders in progress, teaching them while in the context of the game.

The 4th and 5th graders played an OUTSTANDING game today.  Due to some late arrivals, the coaches played goal for the first part of the game - and were immediately scored upon after some great passing and dribbling by the players!  After the cavalry as arrived (as Coach Paul Schwartz referred to them), the game continued.  There were some strong plays, good passing, great kicking and dribbling.  For me personally, having coached this particular group of 4th and 5th graders since they were in kindergarten, it was a real pleasure watching them mature over the years, and play inspiring soccer.  Way to go!

Photographs today were taken by Alyssa Lipman and Sarah Shamash.  Enjoy!