B The Sportsman

For some time now, B has expressed a fervent desire to become a professional sportsman when he grows up. Since before he turned 10, he has shunned junk food and sweet treats, preferring to opt for healthier things to eat and drink. He exercises regularly, monitors his weight and activity levels, and takes pride in his buff appearance. I wish him all the best with his goals, although I do try to caution him that not everyone is cut out to make a living from sport. 

One of B's fairly recent ventures has been to join Parkrun, a social running group that runs every Saturday morning locally, and also across Australia and the world. It's a 5km run, which some take very seriously, while many others do it just for fun, and with no real zest for breaking PB's. B is not one of those - he yearns to improve constantly, and is always disappointed if he doesn't get a good time. Below is his record to date, and a finish-line photo from one of his runs.

The other activity B had been very much engaged in is basketball. He is now in his 4th season in the Echuca competition, and last year his team won it! He should have got BOG in the grand final, but didn't, and he took it very well. He is a good sportsman, as well as a good sport. When he was younger it wasn't always this way (as it generally the case for young boys), so it is great that he is learning the value of teamwork, humility, and celebrating others' success. Photos below are from the GF win day. This year so far his team is in 2nd spot, and I hope they continue to do well. I am not sure what will happen beyond the next year or two, it will be up to him if he wants to progress into the more senior divisions.

B also impressed me a year or so ago, when he asked for a bike. We bought him a kids one, with training wheels, and within a day they were off, and so was he. He then progressed to an adult-sized bike, and is now Mr. Independent, riding around with his friends, and even to the supermarket for me sometimes. He is really maturing through his physical activity and sport, and it has helped to bring us closer together. Every week we watch soccer or cricket highlights on YT, and he is constantly asking me questions about various sports and sporting achievements.

B's latest love is cricket, which is also my favourite sport. He and his brother both love front yard cricket, which we play almost every day (sorry neighbours, for the tennis balls constantly hitting your fences or going into your yards!). He is quickly becoming a very capable fast bowler, and I am keen to enrol him into a local club next summer to further develop his skills. I'm very proud of him, and will always encourage and support him to take this as far as he can. Good on ya B!