the fighting unicorns

Brooke has been asking to play volleyball, so in October, we added it to our lineup :) I texted her old softball coach since I knew she coached with the YMCA, but sadly, the registration had closed a few days prior.  She said she was happy to add her to the team, but I would need to call the main office and make the request.  I called, but they denied my request.  I messaged Coach Cassie again and she was bummed, but messaged me back a few days later to let me know that SHE called the office and was able to make the arrangements.  I was so surprised and grateful that she would take that extra step for Brooke.

The practices were in Arlington, which was not super convenient, but we were excited to be with Coach Cassie for her first season.  Brooke showed up wearing brand new knee pads and despite her minimal experience, had the courage to get outside her comfort zone.  She was at least a head taller than every single girl on that team, but they were all really sweet and Brooke knew a few of them from her old Smashing Sweethearts softball team. 

First game of the season for the Fighting Unicorns.  They lost the first two games which meant they didn't need to play a third, but it was fun to watch the girls play together. And I was obsessed with their cute uniforms :)

Brooke didn't want me to take her picture inside the gym, so I tried to get one as we were leaving and she was playing in the rain coming off the building.  I didn't catch her cute smile so I tried to take another, but she wouldn't humor me.  Doesn't she know I need a picture on the first day of everything??

My parents were able to watch the next game and the girls played SO well!  Half the team was missing, so Brooke was able to play the entire game.  When everyone is there, they have quite a few subs that rotate in and out.  I can't complain about that because they allowed Brooke to be added to the roster, which just upped their total number of players.

She was on a serving streak!!

My dad and I had to leave early to get Colby to his soccer game, but Kevin kept us informed with text updates.  Apparently they were down to 5 girls for their second game, but they still walked away with a win! Brooke absolutely loved all the playing time. 

I asked Kevin to make sure he took plenty of pictures, so he snapped a cute picture with Brooke and the other coach, Rauchelle.  

And a selfie of the three of them...

My mom LOVED watching Brooke play volleyball and I was so grateful that she had this opportunity.

The next week, we went straight from soccer to volleyball, and both sets of grandparents were there to cheer her on!

Our kids are so lucky to have this support at their sporting events.

I didn't get any pics with Brooke, so we took a quick one in the garage.  The combination of her soccer ball and volleyball uniform meant that it was a busy sports day.

They lost their first tournament game, but Brooke had a few awesome plays which I sadly didn't get on video.  Their team really struggled with their serves, but they held their own against the competition team that somehow was playing in their rec bracket.

The next week was their final game and Brooke played so well.  This was such a great first season for Brooke and I know she'll want to play again!  

Watching your kids learn something new is one of my favorite things as a parent.  And we're always grateful when Grandma and Papa come out to show their support.  We headed out to lunch after the game to celebrate a great season.

Way to rock, Fighting Unicorns!