Boys will be boys

 Almost 16 years ago, I got off a plane and began my new life here in Israel. One of the most important things to ensure with your kids in a new place, is that they make new friends. I was very lucky at the beginning, as i happened to sit next to a kid named Eitan, and he took care of me. He thought it was cool that I barely spoke hebrew, and introduced me to the other classmates, and made sure I was always invited to Bayit Chams. But the big breakthrough for me in terms of acquiring a volume of friends, was the day I scored my first soccer goal at recess. I literally got at least 3 invites to come over after school that day. 

Tonight, I returned to the soccer field, for the first time since about 7th grade. I have played much baseball, softball, football, and even basketball since then, but never soccer. I was pretty sure I'd be awful; luckily, that wasn't the case. I was complimented by the organizer that I play the game right. I made a couple big-time saves in goal. I played very tight defense. I had a bunch of assists and even a goal of my own! 

Turns out, there are plenty of important translatable skills from my sports to soccer. Seeing the guy getting open while running a route, before he's open, and understanding where the pass needs to get to. Catching as a goalie and being in ready position. Not being afraid of the ball. 

The biggest one for me was at the end of the last game. We were winning 2-1, game til 3. I was in goal, carried it up a little bit, and gave a no-look kick right through the three defenders to my guy, who then just needed to push in the game winner. People were very impressed with the vision I played with, and the willingness to pass. 

I made a couple of errors too of course, some from lack of knowledge, some from lack of skill and practice. Turns out, I am not the most talented soccer player. But I'll take being the one who plays the right way, and contributes. Oh and, this was definitely the most bonding I've done with the guys here in Kedem since we got here. I have a couple friends, mostly from our building or walking back after shul, but this one felt more real. Turns out, Israeli boys will still like you if you can prove it on the field, whether 10 year olds or 25-30s. 

Can't wait for next week.