Rec softball should be played for enjoyment
Finally, a start to the Mount Pleasant co-ed softball season.
After the first two weeks of the season becoming a casualty to rainy weather, the season is underway.
Why am I rejoicing?
I love to play and I have agonized to get the season going.
Where am I going with this?
Well, let me tell you.
I have had my approach to the playing softball put into perspective this year.
Before this year, I have been prone to take the game a little too serious at different times.
Players, you know what I mean. Getting a little high strung about an error in the field, the ump blowing a call you think should go your way, and other miscellaneous things.
Let me just say this. Get over yourself and have some fun.
After all, this is just a game and we're not professionals. We are in fact human beings and we deserve to have fun dammit.
How my attitude was turned around was due to my three sons.
No, this isn't an analogy. I actually have three boys: Aaron, Ryan and Zack (and one daughter who is too young for this script).
Before the start of the softball season, I have been taking an active part in my boys baseball experience.
All three started their seasons during the first week of this month.
Aaron is playing his first year in farm league, while Ryan and Zack are still in tee ball, where I am the assistant coach for their team.
Although I work with all three at home, this is the first year where I have been going to their scheduled practices with them.
Aaron has played nine games and continues to be excited about playing and improving his skills.
Ryan and Zack have played three games, with one game televised. They were excited about watching themselves on TV, but also enjoyed watching their teammates and friends.
Talk about a wake-up call.
You should see these kids play.
They play with a passion just to play, which is refreshing to watch.
The kids support each other, give praise to each other, and they help each other.
Sure, they like to compete and win. Who doesn't?
But that isn't the bottom line with them.
What is it with them?
They like to have fun and be with their friends.
I know what you're thinking, they're kids, they're innocent and they don't know any better.
Wake up softball players and learn the lesson.
Take the time and watch our community's youth in action, if you haven't done so already.
I would like to thank my three sons, Aaron, Ryan and Zack, for teaching me that there's more to playing softball than high strung competition.
I now play just to play and have fun with the friends I play ball with.
Maybe you should too.
