Amateur vs. Pro

[GarthB]

The difference is the individuals at the pros were given a chance or (to) pursue that level. Not everyone can pursue the pros.


With all respect, Jeff I disagree. The individuals at the pros were given nothing. Their desire was equalled by their dedication and effort and they found a way to go to proschool. Some borrowed the money, some mortgaged their houses, some lost their wives and families over their decisions.

They were not given a chance. They chose to pursue that level. They chose to do without while making near minimum wage for years in rookie ball, short season A, Long season A and even double A. They worked their a$$es off, first to not get released, and second, to move up.

Given simething? No. They earned everything they got. Baseball umpiring is one profession where you work to earn your place every day. How often do accountants perform in front of 30,000 plus people who critique their every move. How often do insurance agents have their supervisor go on television to call an opinion "at best inconclusive"?

Lastly, Jeff everyone MAY pursue the pros, at least at the beginning level. One doesn't even have had to call a single game to go to proschool. Not everyone, however, chooses to pursue the pros. Some have different callings and some just don't have what it takes.

But if one choses not to pursue the pros, for whatever reason, if they do not choose the hard work, the long road, the uncertain future, the crappy pay and proving their worth in public, they forfeit any right to the "I coulda been there" claim. If you "coulda", you "woulda".




[Edited by GarthB on Oct 17th, 2005 at 02:31 PM]