Stars in Jr. High, Not Even Playing Now

FastballDad,

High school basketball and football both offer young men the allure of crowds, cheerleaders, and hallway stud status, where baseball offers only obscure recognition with the student body and small audiences (couldn't actually call them crowds) at the games.

It's tough playing more than one high school sport...kids generally begin to specialize because of the year round nature that each sport is developing.

I agree with you that, in baseball, 2 years ago feels like forever!

Mike F

You nailed it Mike regarding the crowds/attention between baseball and the higher profile sports. All I'd add is the timing of baseball - "Spring Fever". Sometimes it's too tempting when comparing working out on baseball field for two hours every day after school while your buddies are out cruisin' town with their windows down chasin' the young ladies.

The best youth baseball player I have ever seen play the game ended his career at 15. He was the best 6,7,8,9,10 yo...as well. I believe Mike F might have had the oppportunity to see him play down in Florida, a few years back. Most "valuable player" or what whatever the titles given for the most talented athlete...not by age but strickly talent. Lots a reason why not in the game.

I'm not going to label my freshman son a star, but after 10 years of baseball (the last 2 in travel), he has decided to hang up the glove in favor of football and track. My wife's not real excited, but I generally agree with and support his decision. He has a good shot at running varsity track this spring and then playing varsity football next year (fingers crossed)

Though I'll miss going to the games, baseball does get to be a bit of a grind. In any case, I'll probably end up checking out a few games this year just to wean myself and see how the kids are playing.

BatDad,

I read a few or your past post and your profile. Seems like your family has been anticipated this day for a while. Based on your recent post, it seems like your son could be what ever he wants from an athletic stand point. Good grades are even more important. Good luck to you, your son and family in the future. Let us/me know if he makes the varsity team next year so I/we could follow him. Good luck. Keep the mitt oiled for those backyard catch and throw moment.

lsc59,

Thanks and yes. My son and I have had a number of conversations regarding his decision. I told him that if he skipped a year of baseball, it would be difficult to catch back up to his peers, so he had better be sure of what he wanted to do. In the end, I think this year's football season sealed the deal, as he's been hitting the weight room regularly and has attended all the open workout sessions. Most people seem to agree with his decision. I talked to one of the football coaches, and not suprisingly, he felt track was the better option for spring. However, I don't think my wife ever thought he was really serious about giving up baseball, so she still asks on occassion "You're not really quitting baseball, are you?" He always says yes.

I do enjoy this forum, so I do plan on stopping by occassionally. We'll see how things go. Hopefully I'll have some positive news to report.

Funny you should mention keeping the mitt oiled. He got a new one at the end of last season. It hasn't gotten much use yet.

BatDad,

The end comes for all athletes of a specific sport at some point in time. Better by choice, with minor ill regrets then by the decision others without regret. Maybe his destiny is to prepare so he can lead the Illini to a national championship.

lsc59, you have a PM.