Look out, Capitals!

Jojo is learning to play hockey!

Last fall Mr. Pickles was invited by friends of ours (a very hockey family) to enroll Joseph in a hockey initiation program at the local ice rink.  The kids basically learn to skate with all the equipment on (including mouthguard!).  Thankfully, since our friends are a very hockey family, they had all the equipment in Jojo's size and generously loaned it to us.  (...except the mouthguard.  That one we bought.)

Getting him suited up is much like prepping a warrior for battle.

the loyal squire girds on the armor of the valiant knight

Joseph loved trying on all the equipment.

action shot!

The little brothers got in on the action too.

Mr. Pickles took Joseph to each of the practices, and then on the last day of the program the whole family went to watch.  It was impressive.  Joseph went from barely wanting to move (it's a lot of extra stuff to get used to), to zipping confidently around the rink.

Jojo is in front in green

The kids in Jojo's level were ages 4-10.  I cannot describe to you how adorable the itty bitty ones were in all their gear!  I will totally be the kind of mom who humiliates her sons by telling them how cute they are when they're all geared up for their sports.  I just can't help myself.

At the end of each class, they had a little hockey game to practice their skilz.  Joseph always preferred playing goalie.

Joseph has always shown a gift for athleticism, so it's never been a question of whether he would play sports, but when to start.  He was a little resistant to the program at first, but once he gained confidence he enjoyed it.  Right now he's taking regular ol' skating lessons at the same rink to work on some basic skills -- then perhaps he'll go back to hockey next fall.

Although when pressed, he says he enjoys swimming more.  We'll see how he feels once he can skate backwards and do crossovers. :)