Savannah has a long history of not wanting to play sports. She isn't 100% against them but, clearly, has had zero desire to get her feet wet on any sort of court or field. Elementary school and maturity has magically changed this attitude over the past couple of months. While Savannah doesn't ask to play soccer or any form of baseball, she has jumped into tennis and LOVES it. Of course this is most likely a result of a heavy mommy influence as I love the sport and try to get myself to clinic on a weekly basis. Tennis has helped boost Savannah's confidence which made her willing to try a basketball clinic (something I wanted her to do in order to get some ball skills under her belt for future gym classes. I don't want her to be the LAST one picked on the play ground etc. )
Today was her first day. To appreciate this step forward, I should note that Savannah doesn't ever play with a basketball and has no understanding of the game. Alex and I are convinced that she doesn't have the capability to be competitive. Let's just say that "natural" isn't a term one would use when Miss Savannah shows up to play. She is sweet, attentive, and respectful in her play. It is almost a breath of fresh air when watching other kids hog the balls with their over inflated view of their ability on the court.
Savannah's clinic was INTENSE. I thought I was in high school basketball practice. The coach commanded respect, expected way more than the girls could produce, and threw them all into a game situation after an hour of drills. Savannah was one of the youngest and least experienced players. I thought she wouldn't be back. To top it off, the coach had them running lines until the girls were begging for drink with rosy, red cheeks. I believe this is the first time Savannah has really worked out. Gym class at school doesn't come close to what these girls did for two hours. Miss Savannah was hanging on me when we left and complaining of tired legs. I thought it was great!
Here are a couple of drill clips. Savannah is in the pink shirt.
My girl hung with the big kids. She got in there and played the game even though she didn't know what I meant when I told her to guard her man. "What man, where is a man? I only see girls!" There were big time ball hogs. She was only passed the ball twice but she didn't panic. She dribbled toward the basket and, well instead of shooting, kept dribbling to the top of the key. She is pretty frustrated that she forgot to shoot! Baby steps. . .
