The 2nd Book of Me

Soccer

You know, one of life's greatest things is when you get a crazy idea and try something new.

That's the best way to explain the decision I've made. It started last Wednesday at the end of 4th period, when at the end of class I was standing a couple feet away from the soccer sign up sheet. My friend Elias walked up right in front of me to sign up, and for some reason I was a little jealous.

But... Why?

That's the thing. Why did I care that he was signing up for soccer? I mean, it's not like lazy Danielle would ever want to play... Right?

Well, my friend noticed that I was between the fence about something, and I told him something crazy. Something I never thought I'd say, that I wanted to sign myself up for soccer. The thing was, though, that I didn't know how to play really... So why did I want to sign up for it?

Being a good friend, Elias convinced me that I'd regret it if I didn't sign up for soccer. And, being a better friend, Brooke wrote my name down on the sheet for me since I was too much of a chicken to do it.

So, wow. That was it. I signed up for soccer, technically.

It sunk in later that I didn't know the first thing about soccer, and then a lightbulb went off. Maybe I should research. So I did, and found a website that walks you through how to learn to play soccer, starting with the basics and going up in a series of ten steps.

I've started to do that, and I've went outside to practice for two days now. Today, March 22nd, will be my third day. Surprisingly, practicing has already had an effect on my body. It really amazes me how out of shape I am, and unfortunately that hasn't changed yet. I haven't expected it to yet either, it's something I have to work for.

The thing I've noticed, though, is that the muscles in my legs hurt. Specifically my left thigh muscles. I don't get why my left leg hurts more than my right even though I kick with my right, but whatever... The point is, I notice that my legs are hurting. They're awakening from their dormant state (from me being a typical teenager and never exercising), and I guess that means they'll get stronger.

I'm just starting my soccer journey, but I'm determined to keep it up. Soccer starts next school year in the fall, which means I have a whole summer to improve my skill... I really hope I can, too.

So, yeah. Those are the latest deets. If you're rooting for me, you go, Glen Coco. ☻

-Danielle