Taylor's First Volleyball Tournament

Taylor had to miss her actual first tournament since Ken and I were out of town, so today was her first one.  She said she wasn't worried since she "sucks" and "doesn't get to play much."

Sadly, she was right.  She needs a lot of work, but we signed her up for the AAU league so she could learn.  We left for Billings early, and both of us were exhausted from staying up late for Prom - Taylor because she had a great time, and Mama because she can't sleep until she gets home.

The girls had to wait to start "Pool Play."  This is where they play each team and try to do their best for the bracket play.  

When it was time for the girls to get ready for their first game, Taylor was a little nervous:

Taylor got to play throughout the day a little at a time.  She was subbed in and tried her best each time.  

Yep, the ball went off her shoulder rather than over the net

By the end of the day, all of the girls were tired.  They had played well, but they all but a couple games. They had some serious down time while waiting for the Bracket Play, so they ate lunch and slept.

All of the girls were tired

I took the picture of her from where I was sitting

They got some warm-up done and then it was time for the first Bracket game.  Sadly, they lost both games and were eliminated.  Taylor helped out with the scoring for the next game, and then we left.

Taylor and I talked some more on the way to supper.  She received a coupon for Buffalo Wild Wings, so that's where we went.  She is sad she doesn't get to play more, but she understands that the Team needs to have a chance of winning, and she isn't that good.  Part of me (the Mom part) really hurts for her and wants to demand that she get game time so she can learn.  The other part of me (the Practical side) knows the Coach is doing the right thing, and Taylor just needs to practice more.

We enjoyed our time at the restaurant, and we got some wings to take home for Ken.  She slept on the way home, and she even went to bed early.  I'm proud of her for hanging with her Team and for doing all she can!  Let's see what the next two months hold for her.  This every Sunday of early mornings may kill me, but she is having fun.