Today marks the beginning of a new journey.
Today is your first high school baseball game. Look back on the trip that ends today and look forward to the potential ahead. Look back and remember the lessons about baseball and life taught to you by Coach Campbell and Coach Higgins at ULL. Remember those trips to Hico in preparation for summer baseball. Remember all those hours and hours of playing catch in the street, and at the park, where I could never throw it high enough for you. Remember all of the things and people that have gotten you to this point in your life, and now look forward.
Look forward to the fun you're going to have the next 4 years of your life. Look forward to the friends and relationships that you will build and enjoy. Look forward to playing for pride in your school. Look forward to being the hero, and also for being the goat, because it will happen. It happens to everyone. How you respond at that time is most important.
You have grown into a fine young man Both your mother and I are very proud of you. Reach for your dreams, because if you don't they won't reach for you.
Play with the passion, do your best, and respect your opponent.
We'll always be there for you.
Always remember what I've told you before you take the mound, "POUND THE ZONE, LOW AND IN AND OUT. WORK AHEAD. HAVE FUN". It has worked so far.
Love Dad
P.S. And you are right, I never did get to start on varsity as a freshman. You do have that on me and I couldn't be more proud.
Congrats!!!!
