First Season of Coach Pitch

We put Sy in Coach Pitch rather than t-ball this year. He was eligible based on age but he was not ready. This was much more cut throat than t-ball. I was amazed at how stressful it was. Lots of pressure to perform. I'm not sure I was thrilled with it. I kept taking a temp check with the kid and he seemed fine. His outlook was optimistic and he enjoyed just being part of a team. He is not about winning or losing. I'm really glad for that and I had to keep that top of mind when it got painful.

We also had lots of gossiping and complaining being done with parents and coaches. I think the parents were worse than the kids. Seriously, swearing, punching, yelling - all by adults. Parents on parents, and coaches on coaches. I was in awe of how crazy this gets. It's just a game and it's not going to matter in 5 years. I firmly believe that unless someone is in your kid's face ridiculing them or beating the dickens out of them, let it go. It's not always what you want to do but it's what we try to teach our kids, right? Tolerance and patience? The Ump is going to make bad calls, there is going to be a show-off and big mouth on the team, and there is going to be a heckler in the stands. Let it go. It's part of growing up. If you don't want your kid to experience these life lessons, then keep them home. And I also believe that more than not, the kid is going to be able to ignore these things because they want to be part of team and play. That's what's it's all about, playing and having fun.

For now, he wants to try soccer. I'm hoping I can find a fall league that doesn't involve driving to San Antonio a few times a week for practice and games. Also, if I can afford it, I'm going to put him in gymnastics to help with his coordination. I remember being tall for my age and not having the speed and agility of the other kids. People expect you to be stronger and faster but that comes with time.

We will be back next year. I know it seems like we are gluttons for punishment but for the most part Sy was oblivious to the drama going on in the background and he really loves the game and wants to play. So that's what we will do. And after this year, I know what to expect.