UPWARD 2015

Harrison wrapped up his first season of basketball last weekend. It has been such a wonderful experience for him and he has learned a lot and grown so much! This was his first year to play ball and I wasn't too sure what to expect, but he did so well. He is quite the defensive player! 

His shooting improved a lot over the season as well. During one of their last games, Harrison stole the ball from the boy he was guarding with about 7 seconds left on the clock, ran down the court and made the shot right at the buzzer. It was awesome! I think everyone on both teams cheered for him -- it was just such a fun play! 

I know that Upwards isn't super competitive, they don't keep score and they teach during the game. But, it is a great environment for him to learn in. They emphasize good sportsmanship and pray before each game. The refs are great. Harrison has such a good attitude and this was a great spot for him. He is such an encourager on the court. He give his teammates pats on the back and high fives after they score. He cheers them on when he's on the bench. Matt and I were so proud of how well he played, but more than that we were proud of his attitude and how much he is a team player. 

We had some sweet coaches that worked with Harrison and encouraged him.

He was so proud of his Upward goal that he got after the season and his coach gave every kids a special treat with a note from her on it. :) Mimi and Grandad came to see his last game and we celebrated a wonderful season with breakfast at McDonalds after the game. All of our games were played in the morning --most at 8:15 with a few at 9:30. Yes, it was early. But, I loved watching him play. And being part of a small community, we played with friends and against friends each week which was fun for Harrison.

This will be the only year that Harrison will play Upwards ball. In PG he can play ball starting in 3rd grade through the school, so next year he will be playing with everyone he goes to school with which will be so fun! But, Charlotte is already talking about playing Upward next year so we may not be done yet!