How does Mick's father prepare him for a life of football in Part I of the novel, Gym Candy?

Mick's father is well-prepared for his son's entrance into football. In order to give him an edge in terms of size and speed, Mick is kept out of school for an extra year before beginning kindergarten. This is common practice in many places in the United States. As time progresses, Mick comes to love football more and more. It is the only thing that he ever wants to do.