My little one has struggled a little bit to put up really high finishes this year. She didn't win a single gold medal all year. In fact, I don't think she cared at all about trying to win. That was fristrating for me. I try to teach my kids that competing to try to win is more important than actually winning. She has two really good friends on this year's team and I think she was afraid to be competitive with them. A few days ago out of the blue, she looked at me and said, "Dad, I love (Teammate #1) and (Teammate #2), but I'm going to try to beat them at state." What a difference that change in mentality made!
She was the state vault co-champion, state bars champion, beam runner-up and was the AA runner-up by less than a tenth of a point to her best friend. It was a breakthrough meet, but she was happiest for her friend's success. Her friend was also really happy when my daughter beat her on certain events. The love and support is great to see and I think it will serve them both well as they continue. Now onward to new Level 4 and the next set of challenges!
She was the state vault co-champion, state bars champion, beam runner-up and was the AA runner-up by less than a tenth of a point to her best friend. It was a breakthrough meet, but she was happiest for her friend's success. Her friend was also really happy when my daughter beat her on certain events. The love and support is great to see and I think it will serve them both well as they continue. Now onward to new Level 4 and the next set of challenges!
We have always taught her that it is more important to always improve and try to beat your personal best than to worry about were you place. She gets it but it still hurts to have your teammates act that way. I'm glad your daughter had a very happy ending to her state meet.
