Although I like to look closely at mechanics and measurables, anyone that knows me personally knows that in regards to player assessment, I am more focused on leadership and intangibles. It is those tools/skills that, in my opinion, can be difficult to find and develop, but are valuable to any team. Which leads me too....
DD and her team recently played in a tournament. Our team played well in all games and were able to make it to the championship game. DD was chosen to start in the circle for this game while facing a very talented team that we lost to earlier in the day. As time expired, we had a 1-0 lead, but since the other team was the home team, they still needed to bat. The leadoff hitter started with a triple off the fence. So, tying run on third with nobody out. As a coach, my first reaction was to walk out to the circle and talk to the team. But before I had an opportunity to do so, I saw DD waving to her teammates to join her in the circle for a meeting. Intrigued, I decided to stay out of it and watch from the side. My only instruction was to bring the infield in to prevent the run from scoring. Next batter; ground ball to 2b, runner held, 4-3, out at 1st. Next batter; ground ball to SS, runner goes, SS throws home in time, 6-2, two outs. Next batter; ground ball to pitcher, 1-3, game over!!
As a coach I was proud of the accomplishments of the entire team as they worked hard and never gave up. The team we played against was one of the more talented teams we have played and was very well coached. I hope we have another opportunity to play them again in the future. This all said, it was difficult for me to remain "coach" and not show the "dad" side of me. I am very proud of all of her accomplishments and the skill set she has developed over the years. Regardless what she decides to do in the future, I feel she is ready for a successful life. Proud dad brag over...
DD and her team recently played in a tournament. Our team played well in all games and were able to make it to the championship game. DD was chosen to start in the circle for this game while facing a very talented team that we lost to earlier in the day. As time expired, we had a 1-0 lead, but since the other team was the home team, they still needed to bat. The leadoff hitter started with a triple off the fence. So, tying run on third with nobody out. As a coach, my first reaction was to walk out to the circle and talk to the team. But before I had an opportunity to do so, I saw DD waving to her teammates to join her in the circle for a meeting. Intrigued, I decided to stay out of it and watch from the side. My only instruction was to bring the infield in to prevent the run from scoring. Next batter; ground ball to 2b, runner held, 4-3, out at 1st. Next batter; ground ball to SS, runner goes, SS throws home in time, 6-2, two outs. Next batter; ground ball to pitcher, 1-3, game over!!
As a coach I was proud of the accomplishments of the entire team as they worked hard and never gave up. The team we played against was one of the more talented teams we have played and was very well coached. I hope we have another opportunity to play them again in the future. This all said, it was difficult for me to remain "coach" and not show the "dad" side of me. I am very proud of all of her accomplishments and the skill set she has developed over the years. Regardless what she decides to do in the future, I feel she is ready for a successful life. Proud dad brag over...
