Can the love come back?

Well the day finally came for us. My son is a talented soccer player, he played due to Covid (soccer was the only activity allowed at the time for his age) since he was 6 and was natural that he started playing up since he started. He trained overseas before as well and made an impression on a few well known coaches there. He will turn 12 in a couple of months and earlier, he was offered to go to U13MLSN HD for nationally ranked team and he rejected the offer. He said he doesn’t have enough time to keep up and I agree with him and his decision. Finally last night he told me that he wants to pursue hockey as his primary sport. We see this coming, like when he went to his soccer practice, he seemed lost and just went through the motion while with hockey, he looked joyful.

We told him to finish his current season strong and don’t abandon his teammates and coach. I know it’s very hard on him: middle school homework, hockey, soccer. So much expectation.

He said he will keep playing soccer but I am not sure where he should go from here? MLSN AD is still fairly competitive, require dedication and travel, and I also feel part of the lack of enjoyment is also not playing with teammates who know how to play. His strength is his pass, footwork, and reading of the game. He thrives when he plays with good teammates as he made good passes (ie: his style is a bit similar to Trent Alexander Arnold when he played for Liverpool FC).

Also if this is not his primary focus, it seems to be too much for us to spend $6K plus on club dues and uniform but not sure what is the alternative other than quitting next year?

Rec league in our area is decimated at U14 and unless he plays with friends, I don’t think he will enjoy the experience. It’s a bit irony because he even hasn’t hit puberty yet, he barely scratch the surface but I guess after 5 years playing, he said it is too repetitive:(.

Anyone goes through this? Does the love come back? He is still a crazy soccer fan, he loves the game. Right now he found success with ice hockey, it’s all exciting because it’s new (he’s only on his 2nd year while soccer already in the 5th year).