Basketball 101

This year Ty had the opportunity to participate in church league basketball for the first time.  Let’s just say that when it comes to basketball, Ty is definitely a newbie.  Other than goofing and around with his friends on Wednesday nights in the gym, Ty has never had any experience with a basketball.  Our gravel and dirt driveway aren’t very conducive to “pounding the rock.”  Thank goodness the rules for the younger league were more than lenient.  Of all the times Ty touched the ball during the games this season I’m pretty sure he didn’t dribble it even once!  I’m beginning to think we may need to hire out Uncle Jude for some one-on-one basketball instruction.

Evidently coach Raymond had told Ty that he needed to stay near the block under the goal.  I wish Ty would follow my instructions as well as he followed Mr. Raymond’s.  Ha ha.  For the first two games, which was half the season, I don’t think that Ty’s feet ever left his block.  He stood there like a statue, with his feet together and his hands by his side mostly. Like I said though, you can’t blame him, because he’d never even seen a basketball game up to this point.

Inexperience aside, Ty had the best time playing!  He looked forward to his games every week. 

Finally, some action!

By the third game we had coaxed Ty off the block and talked him into being a little more aggressive in blocking out and going for the rebounds.

Ty’s best game was the last game of the season.  He scored two goals!  Whoop whoop!!  The look on his face after he made his first shot was priceless.  You’ve never seen such excitement and surprise on a face in all your life.  His smile stretched from ear to ear.  Ty had all the fans laughing and cheering for him.

Our team went 4 and 0 this season.  Way to go boys and girls!

You would have thought these trophies were made out of solid gold.  Kids just love to get trophies don’t they?

Here’s Ty and his good friend Jake.  His mom, Ellen, and I are amazed at how much these two are alike.  We get a good laugh out of it sometimes.  I don’t know if it comes from them both being homeschooled or what, but it’s down right uncanny how similar these boys are.  Even their bathroom habits are the same. Lol! (Sorry. I realize that may have been a bit too much information.)  I’m just disappointed these two aren’t on the same baseball team.  (Although, it’s mostly because Ellen and I won’t get to hang out during their games.)

Inexperience aside, Ty had a lot of fun playing basketball this year.  Now we are all looking forward to a fun season of baseball.  Practice began this week, and our first scrimmage game is tonight.  Let the games begin!