Baseball, little league, and fun

 I grew up loving baseball. For me, the best years were the Mustang league for 8 or 9 year olds. Eventually,as we got older, coaches started to pander to the “stars”. Sometimes the coaches or the “stars” got arrogant, pushy, or downright mean to those of us with less skill or ability. For me, this would eventually tarnish the sport I loved so much. Still, for an 8 year old there was nothing like a sunny day at the fairgrounds playing baseball. 

     

      In the early 1970’s the teams of 8 and 9 year olds were all issued colored t-shirts, and were named based on the color of the shirt. No frills or fancy uniforms were necessary.  Anybody that had a glove could play. We had kids of all skill levels, including some that couldn’t play at all, didn’t even know the rules of the game, but I would venture to say we all had fun. In those days, there was no rule that made sure all the players got to bat in every game, or even play, but most coaches did a really good job getting all the kids into the game. I was never very good at baseball, but I knew all the rules, all the strategies, studied it hard, and tried my best. I struck out a lot, and dropped more than my share of baseballs, which, since I was still a little kid, made me sad. But, every once in a while, I made a good play or got a hit, which kept my spirits up. 

     

 The thing I remember most though, was my Mom and Dad coming to every single game. No matter what. Even if it meant being a few minutes late to work sometimes, they never missed. It meant a lot to me then, and still does. 

     This year, one of my Grandsons is playing baseball for the first time, and one of my Granddaughters is playing softball.  They still love it. I hope they always do. You can bet your last dollar I will try to see as many games as I can. For me, it isn't so much about baseball anymore. Sometimes, the game itself is not nearly as important as the friendship, or unconditional support from those you love. When the scores or petty rivalries are gone, the love and support will still be remembered. But the baseball is fun too.