A soccerific success.

The first time the girls were supposed to have their first soccer game was some 5 or 6 weeks ago. We tried again another 2 times and failed. But on Sunday the girls finally had the chance to trounce their counterparts from Tasrirt. Final score: 3-0. There was a lot of hoopla for just 1 hour of playing time, but I think that’s how these things work. We played 8 on 8 with goal keepers, a referee, and vague references to the rules of soccer. The field was a bit rocky compared the pebbly field where we practice, so I’d say it was approximately like playing a game on grass after playing your whole life on turf. Only a little more hurty. The other girls were a little smaller, on average, but clearly knew what they were doing. All in all a good game, and everyone came away happy.

We went back to the school where they made lunch for the girls and let the two teams mingle. Despite all my girls’ tough talk, they got along famously, and the girls of Tasrirt were sad to see them go. While the girls were eating, the 10 adults present were making themselves certificates to congratulate themselves on a job well done. One such adult, in fact, refused the first certificate made for him because it got water on it. Serious business.

But honestly, it was a great day, we made some connections and I think there was a lot of excitement created over about the possibilities of girls’ soccer. The plan is for the girls from Tasrirt to come play here in two weeks. Which means I have to go wash the jerseys.

Here are a few photos:

The girls!

Both teams after lunch. We sang Aboomchicaboom.

Not a bad view. And my sweeper kicking butt and taking names.