Sam's best weekend ever

P9132093
Originally uploaded by spolay

Friday: Report cards came home and Sam made high honors -- first time in his scholastic career he could be designated as such. He'd have qualified for that distinction just about every report card from Grades 1 through 4, but the performance management scale in those grades isn't as formal. Expect Samuel Joy's name to appear in The Enterprise soon, and for many years to come.

Saturday: Team Italy in Sandwich Youth Soccer's Grade 5 league won both of its games in the first two rounds of the season-ending World Cup. Added bonus: One of the parents brought a dozen from Dunkin Donuts, supplying the kids with a little boost between the first and second games. Sam seemed equally as excited by his Boston Creme donut -- his favorite variety -- as he was by his team's wins.

Sunday: Team Italy wins the championship, 1-0! It was such a great game, in spite of the muddy conditions. Each player contributed, whether it was heads-up defense, great saves or needle-threading passes. Sure, I'm biased, but that was one thrilling soccer game! Congratulations to Coach Mike Caggiano and the boys. A very enjoyable season to watch, in addition to Sam seeming throughout the season to renew his love of soccer. After Sam had collected his championship trophy, he was sporting among the biggest grins I've ever seen on him.

Sam has had a lot of great weekends in his nearly 11 years, but I'd be hard pressed to name one that boosted his self-esteem as much as this one. We are so proud.