First Tournament and….a Medal

We came in from skiing in Kananaskis this morning and headed straight to Liam's first karate tournament.  The participants can compete in kata, sparing and/or both.  Since it was Liam's first one and he just started karate a few months ago, I felt he should start with the kata.  He was quite upset with me as he really felt he could spare (even with no training).   We had his sensei talk to him and explain that a first tournament should be kata and then observe the sparring.  He accepted their advice.  They also tried to manage his expectations and told him that kids usually don't medal in their first attempt.  Guess what?  He won bronze.  Proud of the stubborn, awesome kid.  Next tournament coming up in May and he will be sparing.