My family was always a “baseball family,” and the Yankees were always on our television. My dad always yelled back at the ump on the screen, “What? C’mon, that ball was high!” My brothers also played, and I was the supportive big sister who was taken to all the games. I knew all of the baseball terms and all of the major league players.
The best part is, even though I didn’t play, I loved everything about the sport.
I loved going to Yankees games, and I appreciated the rich history. I knew that when I had kids, they would learn to love it, too.
When I met my husband and he first told me that he was a Division I pitcher in college, I smiled to myself. Fast-forward thirteen years, and our now seven-year-old son is playing travel baseball.
He even started pitching, which brought us happiness (and some anxiety!). Every time I see him on the mound, I start cheering him on while gritting my teeth and hoping for those strikes. Having always been a dance mom for my daughter, I can officially say that I am now a travel baseball mom! Who wants eye black?!
Here is why I love this sport for my son and our family.
1. Teamwork
My son has learned how to be part of a team. He knows he must work hard, be committed and on time, practice daily, and show good sportsmanship. Sometimes, he would strike out and come to the dugout, wiping away tears. I’ll admit I have also wiped away a few of my own. As his mom, I am always there to comfort and encourage him to get his head back in the game and support the next batter. This is a team sport, after all.
2. Hard Work Pays Off
These boys are seven and eight years old, and they work hard. They never complain, even when it’s super hot outside. They play happily, and the promise of ice cream at the end of practice gets them through! They are kind to one another, and they cheer each other on. There has not been one negative comment all season, and as a teacher, I can tell you that’s a pretty amazing thing. These kids lean on each other, and it’s heartwarming to see their support for one another and their love of the game.
3. Dedication and Communication
After working all day, these dads and coaches head to the field and are all-in with these boys. It’s like watching the movie The Sandlot, and these boys and their dads are in their glory, playing until they can’t play anymore. I appreciate how our coaches build their players up. “You got this! Protect the plate! Remember, you’re a hitter!” I love the constant encouragement, even when the kids are feeling discouraged. They are teaching these boys how to communicate with each other in the field, how to speak up, pay attention, and, most importantly, work together.
And the moms have even played a time or two as well! We get in there a few times at practice, and these girls can hit! These mothers not only get the gear ready, wash the dirt-stained baseball pants multiple times a week, refill the water bottles, pack snacks, and juggle their careers, but they also take care of the little brothers and sisters who run and climb through the bleachers, making their own game. At the same time, they try to escape the heat.
Seeing my son make these memories with his team and his dad makes me so happy. His team has become a second family, and I am so happy we decided to have him play travel ball. Despite the crazy schedules and the running around, he is happiest being on the field, and if that’s where his heart is, that’s where you’ll find me.
