It has been quite the year for Beau and team sports. He played t-ball for the second straight season in the spring. Much like the first year, it was tough to keep him focused. He tried soccer for the first time this fall. It seemed to fit him better and he was able to expend more energy. Finally, this past Saturday, Beau finished his debut basketball season. He might not be Lebron but he seemed like a natural.

Beau played basketball this year for the Spokane YMCA league.

Beau played in the YMCA league on a team comprised of his male classmates from St. Mary Catholic School. A parent had discovered that the Y was offering a kindergarten league and asked everyone else in the class if we wanted to sign up our sons. Even though Sid and I were itching for a break from sports, the opportunity was too good to pass up.

You probably noticed that I mentioned kindergarten league and your first thought may have been “Isn’t that a little too young for organized basketball?”

Beau dribbles/holds the basketball during a recent game at Horizon Middle School.

I would be lying if I said I didn’t think the same thing (at first). However, the league really does try to cater to 5-year-olds. The baskets are set at lower heights and they hire some of the most patient and supportive referees. Traveling? Just like in the NBA, it is rarely called.

The YMCA league helped make the game relevant/accessible to Beau’s kindergarten team. The referees knew exactly how to call the game in a way that kept the action moving and encouraged the kids. The official in this photo was phenomenal (Beau is #33).

Yes, the style of play could give a normal basketball fan some anxiety. Like I mentioned, kids run with the ball at times and forget basic things like taking the ball out after a made basket (that’s correct, baskets are actually made at this level!). Stealing the ball is prohibited and dunking is too so I had to tell Beau to play below the rim. 😂

Speaking of Beau, it was a thrill to see him score some points throughout the season. It was also rewarding to see him pass the ball better and more frequently as the season went on. Every Saturday morning when we went to one of his games he was excited to play. When we told him the season was over, he was sad.

Beau stands with my parents after his final basketball game of the season.

I give a lot of credit for his positive experience to Jaysanna Wang. She graciously (and bravely) volunteered to coach and did a superb job. She taught the “Knicks” the basics and brought consistency and organization to the team. After observing numerous sports seasons that my kids have participated in the past several years, the coach can truly make a difference—for better or worse. Jaysanna positively enhanced Beau’s first basketball opportunity.

Say hello to the Knicks. Jaysanna Wang volunteered to coach the squad and did an exceptional job.

There is no question Beau will play basketball again next year. I hope he continues to improve. Like I have alluded to before, our son isn’t going to get much help from his genes—his parents lack athleticism and height—but as long as he is having fun and progressing that is all you can really hope for.

It was a great first year of basketball for Beau. We look forward to next season.

As for now? That break from sports that Sid and I were itching for when soccer ended is now a reality. We are very thankful that Beau had the chance to play hoops with his closest friends but we are excited for the holidays and some downtime. Don’t Blink.