A little known fact. I have played a lot of soccer, and I played it at a very competitive level for over 20 years. But, when I was 34, playing in a league with numerous 20 year olds, I sustained the last of numerous injuries to my ankles, i hung up my boots, concentrated on my job, my infant children, and fine food and occasional, well more than occasional, fine wine and good friends. I reminisced about the games I played in the past. laughed about missed goals, a concussion or two, a broken nose, trips to tournaments with friends and the medals won and lost. Sometimes, I even dreamed of a game where I made a run down the left flank, the length of the field, beating several of my opponents, and crossing the ball where one of the finest strikers I ever played with or watched play, smashed it in the back of the net. I can still see that run if I close my eyes right now, but when I dream it, I am 17 again, with a full head of hair, and a 30 inch waist.
But age 34 was when I stopped playing. I began coaching seriously when I was 39 and I haven't looked back since. I haven't played a competitive game in 12 years. Five asides, some "kick ball", helping out in a 20 minute inter squad match, that's been about it.
Then I got "the call". An over 45 league was operating and the squad needed players, and I was to be one of those players. Why? I don't know, but it didn't and doesn't matter.
Tonight I played , and I learned several really important things. I'm not 17 any more, hell, I'm not even 34, but it is green grass and a ball. The ball still rolls, it flys, I can still pass, my game touch and speed are dreadful, and I suspect I am sweating more bacon grease than perspiration, but it was the same game, and I felt just as happy as I did when I was 17. To be part of a team, to get some exercise, and to just play this game. I learned again it can be hard work (harder for me than it used to be!), but that the joy exceeds the effort. I remembered why the game is so great to play, why it is the best game in the world, and why all it requires is some green grass and a ball. It truly is a great day to be alive.
The Boots
This is not about selling a brand, or style of boots, it is about boot maintenance. Sure I could go on and on about my joy of buying a pair of Nikes because my team mate bought the last pair of boots in my size that I wanted, and they are darned good boots, but all boots have pluses and minuses. But they all need care.
Hal's rules of boot care
1. Clean the boots after they have dried off. Don't let mud stay on until the next game. Let it dry and clean it off!
2. After the game, rain or shine, stuff your boots with newspaper to dry them out. This also eliminates unpleasant odours. Yes, your feet stink.
3. Check your "studs". Make sure they still exist. Don't play on nubs, this will lead to injury. Also check for any loose bits on the soles of your cleats to prevent injury to your opponents.
4. If you have leather cleats/boots consider using an appropriate leather cleaner and moisturizer. These things are expensive, and you need to keep them in working order for more than one season
5. Always pack extra laces. Seriously. Don't be the idiot who can't tie his shoe because of a broken lace.
I'm going to bed, it's late. I am hoping to dream about that run I made 29 years ago.
Without all the wheezing I did today.
YNWA
Hal White
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