~ after Gary Soto’s “Oranges”

The first time I scored,
I was three.
In the beating sun on a soccer field
of a scorching June summer day.
I had no knowledge of the game.
I only knew how to pass and shoot.
I zeroed in on the net like a sniper zeroes in on his target.
As I shot the ball
My parents were recording with their cameras.
I waited and waited
And then I watched the ball pass the goal line.
GOAL!!!
I ran over to the sideline where my coach was,
And gave him a high five.
I was thrilled.
I scored another one.
I played some defense because my coach
Wanted my teammates to score.
Defense didn’t stop my urge to shoot the ball.
I got the ball on defense and I dribbled down the field.
I shot…
The sweat dripped down my face
Like a sink faucet drips when it’s not fully turned off.
The ball flew in the air.
It bounced,
And bounced,
And rolled passed the goalie and into the goal.
I put my arms horizontally to my left and right.
I ran around with my arms spread out like the wings of a jet plane flying through the clouds.
“I’ll never forget this moment.” I thought to myself.
My heart pounded.
I was one tired kid.
I walked to the sideline.
I picked up my water.
I drank it and I got hydrated.
This game marked the beginning of something great.
It was the beginning,
of my love and passion for soccer!