We're finding that, although she's not that great in academics (but that appears to be improving) our little Emmaline is quite talented in lots of other areas. After her first day at the school's running club, the teacher pulled me aside and says, "Emmaline is quite a runner. She beat everyone else quite effortlessly." At the latest parent-teacher night, her dance teacher asked me what types of dance Emmaline has taken in the past. When I told her she hadn't taken any dance since preschool, she was surprised. "I guess she just has a natural ability. She certainly isn't shy or hesitant to jump right in and try new things." She's a great artist, and as I've mentioned before, she is quite good at soccer. She is playing with Savannah's team for indoor, and although she isn't the star of the team- she can keep up.
The frustrating thing is, since she knows she is naturally good at things, she isn't willing to put in any extra effort to improve. On Saturday, I signed both of the girls up for the "Olympic Development Program" try-outs for soccer. It's a great way to get some extra training and get your name out there for the college coaches to see you. Savannah was thrilled. I practically had to drag Emmaline to the car as she said things like, "But I'm already good at soccer. I don't need extra training." No amount of reasoning makes her feel any differently.
I always thought a little talent was a good thing. Now I'm not so sure. As I watch Savannah work her little heart out (even waking up at 5:30 every Saturday last winter for extra indoor training), I'm starting to think "desire" might outweigh "talent." We'll see.
4 comments:
Dare I say, "Welcome to the Huntzingers" I honestly don't know where or how it starts or where it ends but this is just "the way it is". I hope that doesn't sound negative in any way its just a different way than many. Now I wonder where that puts me..... "natural talent, good looks, outstanding memories, verbose, debating, aaaaaah, not so much. Tries hard like Savannah, aaaah, not so much of that either. Perhaps there are more categories.
Desire is Clara's problem as well. If you find any motivation techniques, let me know. You forgot to say how well Emmaline plays the piano too!
Most coaches feel like they can teach talent if the player has potential and really good work ethic. Hopefully Savannah keeps developing that hard work mentality.
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