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In spite of me helping "coach" my son when he was a young boy, he still made it to D-1 baseball Big Grin. I remember helping coach a team of 10-11 year olds and one player was fielding the ball by trapping it on the ground. Since his Dad was also an assistant coach, I asked him to show his son how to properly field a ground ball. Dad took the glove, spit in it, hit the pocket with his fist and got into proper fielding position. Just before the grounder got to him he turned his glove over and trapped it on the ground. I had to smile….
Dads get a lot of heat from the “true” baseball people but in reality they are an integral part of America’s game. Yes, there are a few egotistical idiots out there but for the most part dads are just filling a void that needs to be filled. A dad’s contribution may not help someone make the high school team but it may help some kid enjoy their childhood and enjoy the game. Let’s appreciate them for what they do.
Fungo

Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience.
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Fungo,
I was getting on my kid a bit for not staying down well enough when I was hitting grounders a bit harder than his comfort level. I decided to show him how it was done and we switched positions. I really didn't stay down well enough either. I'd like to think it was due to old age and tight hamstrings. He had another explanation, "Its OK dad, you aren't wearing a cup." Hopefully, I'll be more understanding in the future.

It is interesting how kids will pick up their parents faults. I've noticed my son striding too closed while pitching (something I've always done) lately. He also picked up some of my swing faults despite not having seen me swing that often.
quote:
A dad’s contribution may not help someone make the high school team but it may help some kid enjoy their childhood and enjoy the game.


My time with my son playing catch, going to practice, etc. has provided a link between us. Bridging the generation gap between father and son, man and boy, is tough. Baseball has been a common denominator from the time he was 7 until now (almost 18).

I remember how tough it was to get along with my dad when I was in those teen years. It's great when you and your son can share a passion for the same thing.
Bizazz,

You hit the nail on the head! I used to coach my son's little league teams, and thank God, I realized that my son and I just didn't get along on the field. I realized that my relationship with my son was much more important than being "coach". So, I chose to step back, stop coaching (on the field) and let the other "coaches" handle it. Now my son and I play catch in the backyard at least 4 times a week, and talk about life, homework and what ever else is going on. I still throw him grounders, and he's still "working out", but baseball has just become a part of life, and fortunately, we get to enjoy baseball, and the rest of life together.

"Dare to Dream, Strive to Achieve."

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