Thinking back to when I played AYSO soccer in Midvale, UT back in the late 80’s and early 90’s, I can’t help but think how those times have impacted me as a person since.  Having time to spend with your friends, playing soccer and generally having a good time was something I wouldn’t trade for all the money in the world.

The teams I played on were not always good, in fact, many were quite horrid thinking back.  Much like the NCAA these days, all the quality players were scooped up and hand-picked for the top teams in the league.  Despite the deficienices on the field, everyone on the teams had a great time playing and were rewarded at the end of the season w/ the team photos and soccer trophies.  The games were always fun as well, marked by sliced oranges and Hi-C during halftime and Twinkies or Ding Dongs after the game – win or lose.  Great times…

I also played tee-ball for 1 year, but wasn’t very good and/or didn’t feel like continuing down that path, so that is as long as it lasted.  Looking in my scrapbook box the other day, I did find that my lone baseball trophy among the half-dozen or so soccer trophies.  My trophy rack would certainly look better w/ more baseball trophies! 

In addition, I also suited up for the “Junior” Jazz rec league teams for several years.  This was really my passion and I think I was pretty good, but it did not lead to any high school teams or playing time unfortunately.

Something I could have excelled at, had I applied myself correctly at the time, would’ve probably been golf.  Our high school had a golf team and both my parents were playing on a regular basis, so it would’ve been a natural direction to go.  I play sparingly these days, but wish I could’ve added a few golf trophies to accompany my others.

Now perhaps, I will try to instill the same love of sports and team play on my son and daughter.

More from Jock Jerseys Sports Blog

• 2008-09 All-NBA First Team Led by Lebron, Kobe & Dwyane Wade
• Boozer, Hinrich Included in Proposed 3-Team Deal
• Top 10 NBA Team Apparel Sales – December 2008

Jock Jerseys Sports Blog Recommends

• Moe: These Nuggets ‘best team’ in franchise history
• 2008 Rox: Bad team or underachievers?
• Do you want this team in the playoffs, or not?