Upward Basketball 2014 Games 5-8

**GUEST BLOGGER**

 ~ Eric Hendrickson ~ (my husband)

Game Five

Game 5 was a rematch against the team we played in week 2.  We were not as dominant this time, but we did pull out the victory.

Game Six

Game 6 was a rematch against the "giant" team that we tied in week 3.  We were ahead at halftime but lost the lead in the second half and ended up losing by double figures.  We were missing one girl and another got hurt during the game, so we ran out of gas.

Game Seven

At each game, the coaches and players are individually introduced.  The lights are turned off and a spotlight shines on the incoming player.  Sarah, back around game 3, decided to do a cart wheel on her entrance.  By game 7, many of the other players on our team, and other teams, were doing the same.  Although Coach Brad and I were begged to do a cart wheel, we never caved into the pressure to do so.

This was the 3rd game against the team we played week one.  The other team played well and we were outplayed this game.  This was our second straight double digit loss.

Game Eight

 For the final game of the season, we played the team we previously beat twice and won by a lot. It was a good game to end the year, ending our season with a record of 4 wins, 3 losses, and 1 tie. We had a very young team (3 first graders, 1 second grader, and 2 third graders) that continually improved throughout the year and for the most part were receptive to our coaching.

Sarah is playing defense on her friend, Hannah. (above left)

Coach Brad couldn't make it to the final game, so I coached solo.  Above I am addressing the team after a fun and exciting game and season.  These girls improved a lot throughout the season, especially Sarah.

~ The Awards Ceremony ~

There was an award ceremony a few Sundays after the completion of the season.  Coach Brad named off the girls as they each accepted their award. 

Coach Brad also acknowledged that every girl on our team scored at least 1 basket this season.

Well, this concludes Sarah's second basketball season in Upward Sports and my first season coaching Sarah.  I did enjoy it and I wish the best for all these young girls.  May God Bless you, lead you, and enrich your lives.