Thanks ladies for all the advice and experiences. It really helped.
I remember a couple of years ago, when he was playing basketball, I think it was 7th grade, and when I would pick him up from practice, he would wait until we got away from school and then his tears would fall. Some jerk would say "he shouldn't even be playing" or if he missed a pass or something during practice they'd say "wait to go". It really hurt his feelings. Part of the reason he made mistakes is because he felt so intimidated. I just didn't or rather don't, understand why he would still want to be around these guys....but like you all said, I will support and encourage him all the way. He really is a great kid.
