We made a deal with Sloan. After five seasons of soccer, her enthusiasm was starting to wane. With the spring season approaching, she expressed her desire to hang up the cleats. With the season already paid for (you sign up for fall and spring seasons as a bundle), we wanted her to stick it out.

But then, in the pursuit of keeping her active, we offered Sloan an alternative: Play basketball and you can retire from soccer.

She accepted our offer.

Sloan poses for a picture in her basketball uniform prior to her first game.

Sloan recently finished her first season of basketball for St. Mary. Besides cross country, it was the first sport offered to her at school as she played on the 3rd/4th grade girls team. Before the season started, we took her to the local sporting goods store and bought her some basketball shoes. Our girl was ready to play!

Besides the shoes, she also got a basketball. Her Uncle Glen, Aunt  Carrie, cousin Olivia, and dog mom Jelly Bean gave her this ball for her birthday.

I was a little nervous for her. Sloan received my athletic genes and it wasn’t like she was elated to play in the first place. But thanks to super organized/patient coaches and supportive teammates, the season turned out to be a success.

Sloan takes the court at the beginning of a basketball game against Cataldo Catholic School.

The team played six games on Wednesdays from February – beginning of April. Besides the one home game they hosted, the team traveled to other area Catholic schools for their games. Although I did miss one game, I was able to get off work in time to navigate the Cheney/Spokane traffic so I could attend the other five.

Sloan dribbles the basketball down the courtl during her last game on April 1.

The St. Mary girls proved to be a strong squad. They finished with a 4-2 record and played tough each time they graced the hardwood. They were coachable, worked well together, and practiced good sportsmanship. They were a fun group to watch.

Sloan played on an organized, talented, and supportive team. Big thanks to Troy Gibbs and Dani Golay for coaching the squad.

As for Sloan, she showed signs of improvement throughout the season. She played relentless defense and was never afraid to call for the ball. Her ball handling and decisions she made once she received it progressed as the games went on. Although she might not have scored, she always tried to find the open teammate.

Sloan plays defense during a home basketball game at St. Mary Catholic School (Spokane Valley).

Thanks to Troy Gibbs and Dani Golay for serving as the coaches. It makes a dad feel good that they offered such a positive environment where my daughter could grow and the team could succeed. I also admire Sloan for putting herself out there and trying a new sport. As spring enters full swing, I hope she doesn’t miss soccer too much…but I don’t think she will. Don’t Blink.