“Who Says You Can’t Play?” A Child’s First Soccer Game and the Power of Shifting Perspectives

“Babies can’t play,” said an older child, eyeing my nearly five-year-old daughter skeptically at her first soccer practice. I could feel my protective instincts surge, all I said was, “She can play.” I didn’t need to say more.

On the sidelines, I felt triggered by memories of being labeled ‘bad at sports’ and not being wanted on the team, and I feared what these children’s words might do to her. Would they chip away at her confidence? Would she shrink from their judgment as I had?

As the training started under a drizzly sky, none of my fears materialized in her. I watched, as my daughter joined in on the field, grateful and joyful to just play. The coach made sure she got a chance with the ball, and when she did, the other kids didn’t dismiss her; instead, they shouted her name, urging her to pass it their way. And once she did, the game moved on, and she stood there for just a moment, a broad smile spreading across her face.

It was a small moment, and it felt monumental. Here was my daughter, the youngest and smallest on the field, not just playing but being a part of the team. In that instant, she wasn’t just playing soccer; she was teaching me a vital lesson about resilience and the pure joy of participation. Earlier in the year when writing down goals for 2024, I’d asked if anyone had their own goals to add. Playing sports with other kids had been hers.

This experience wasn’t just about a child playing soccer; it was about challenging the stereotypes that bind us. It was about practicing the courage to show up, to engage, and to defy the expectations that others might set for us.

We all have moments where we hear, “You can’t play.” They come to us, regardless of age, whispering doubts and creating fears. But here’s what I learned from mychild who heard she couldn’t play but showed up and played joyfully, in her own way: No matter who says you can’t, show up anyway. Play anyway. Play your own way.

And if we’re lucky, like I was that day, we’ll stand on the sidelines, witnessing a simple act of bravery that reminds us of the power of self-belief.

To everyone who’s ever been told they’re not enough in any area of life, remember this — every field, every stage, every room is yours to enter.

Play like you belong there, because you do.

Lisa Pircher-Reid is an author, podcaster, tech co-founder, and devoted stay-at-home mom. She is passionate about shifting perspectives and empowering societal change through personal transformation, all aimed at creating a healthier future for her children. If you’re inspired to challenge the status quo and join Lisa in making a difference, sign up for her newsletter here: Sign up now.