Country Boys...

Well, as some of you may know, a few years ago I moved my family to the country. We are nestled on a couple acres up on Ray Roberts Lake in Valley View, Tx. You know, wanting the grass roots, down home simple life feeling.

So far we have enjoyed our new lifestyle. BBQ's on Sunday, bullfrogs and rabbits to catch for the boy, and mama enjoys watching the wild flowers grow this time of year.

But I have found 1 thing in life has not changed.

During the construction of our new home, I had the pleasure in meeting the man who built our metal building. I use it to store all my toys...boat, quad, duck hunting gear, ect. Anyhow, this guy is a great man and I have become somewhat close to his family.

So he asks about the baseball thing and mentions his 7 year old boy could use some help. So I mention to bring him over and we'll work on some things.

3 months later, my Wednesday nights are consumed with baseball lessons in the small town of Pilot Point just down the road. I guess word travels fast. I was reluctant at first not wanting to give up my evenings, but what could 1 night hurt?

So I start to meet people and surprisingly find out that the community has a strong youth league program. I think this is great right. Blue collar folks watching youngsters in the dandylions learn and enjoy the game.

So back to the building guy and his son. Let's just say he's a little slow and his confidence is not too strong. We work on that part all winter long and he is making incredible progress. A once embarrassed kid is now eagerly looking forward to his practices and games.

As the young season approaches, I happen to work with a kid on the field one day on his catching. Just so happens that the building guys son has a practice with the team on the same day.

So on my way out I stop to watch a little. Not surprised, there is a little more emphasis on unimportant things going on in practice but that's to be expected right?

Well I get a phone call later from the building guy and he mentions his son has become intimidated by the coach of his team. From my day watching practice, I could easily see how this could happen.

My suggestion was for this father of this 7 year old boy to request a team move back to "t-ball" with another coach for the season. This would accomplish 2 things, more time for advancement, and elimination of an intimidating environment.

Remember, the self confidence of this little boy is an obvious area for concern. Certainly THE MAJOR move down from "coach pitch" and a mentor change might help.

Word is, "the league" is concerned that a 7 year old might create an unfair advantage while allowing him on the 6 year old t-ball team.

Are you kidding me? We are talking about 6 and 7 year old boys. I don't think I played organized baseball until I was 10 or so. In fact, I think then I was more worried about what flavors would be in my "suicide" soda after the game.

Moral of the story...a 7 year old boy will most likely learn to not enjoy the game and fear future participation.

I guess the game has changed for the country boys as well.

Looking for a few acres to build my "field of dreams". Sunday pick up games might be fun don't you think?

On a side note, my son Gage has decided it's more fun to watch his dog chase the ball I bought for him than play catch with his dad. I'll admit, it's more fun for me too.