Thank God, session #2 went better.
I'd talked Shane up beforehand. I hadn't said things like "You're the best" or "You'll be awesome." I did say that he could do it and that his attitude would be what decided things. As long as he went in with open eyes, ears, and mind (with a closed mouth) he'd make something of it. And whatever happened, he was tough. There were only 4 more sessions we could attend. I told Shane he'd already improved so much as a goalie over the years. I said I was proud of him and of his ability to get back up and try again.
Plus, I showed him the book he'd asked for.
There's probably a grain of truth about him being quieter. There was a definite ring of truth to him feeling better about how it all went. Last time, it was "I hate this!" and "This was supposed to be fun. This wasn't fun!" This time it was all smiles and a few happy sentences before Shane asked about his rewards (Which I happily handed over).
I didn't offer another bribe. The hope is that the practice is its own reward. I want Shane to enjoy the training and then see some sort of payoff in his performance in game (win or lose!).
I feel much better about signing Shane up for the training now. I hope it goes just as well next time.
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