Socializing with the enemy...

[whiskers_ump]

Well, tonight I really went over the line as of socializing.

Small community have know these kids since they were 8U's. This
was seniors nite. Each year I sort of pick out a kid I have had a
friendship or friendly disagreements with over her career. She was
escorted by her dad, and I sent out a foral arrangement for him to
give to her. Last year in a big game with the tying run on, she went
to far on a check swing [partner in C] and I yelled "She went". She
has all year long joked with me about the call. So on the card I put,
"Yes, You Went", Now go out in the world and conquer whatever you
choose in life to do.
She cried. Naturally in tonights game, I had plate and she is the
catcher for the team. Very few words were spoken during the game.
However, after the game, she hugged my neck.

[wadeintothem]

thats awesome man.. great story.

[Robmoz]

Well, my first post back in softball since last year! BBall was a long season....I can't wait to hit the field.

Besides a full Fed schedule, I get many "regular" gigs working ASA rec leagues usually on the same 1-2 fields for an entire season. As a result, I get to know many of the players and coaches by name, yet THEY couldn't tell you my name if you asked them they would only say --- that's Blue!

They give me much respect because I work hard for them. I hustle, study the rules, and communicate clearly, but most of all I have fun.

I am stern when I need to be, always respectful, confident but not cocky. I do not control the game but it is clear to all that I am in control. Consistency and fairness above any other. Your weaknesses will be exposed at every opportunity, especially in the adult leagues. But if you are good at plying your trade the joys of the game will have no bound.

So, after the last game out in the lot when someone yells "Hey Blue, ya want one?" I am quite comfortable in accepting the offer. I do not worry about this concept of socializing or covorting with the enemy nor do I feel that my integrity is damaged by joining in the lifting of the libations (on occaison and never more than one)....most of all I have fun.

There is a time and a place for everything but it is in the timing and the placement that usually gets people in trouble. Let me stress the point --- Have Fun Out There Every Time You Hit The Field.

Strive for excellence and perfection with every single game you work but when its over, its over. Be proud of your efforts and feel free to socialize....most of all I have fun!

[mick]

Originally posted by whiskers_ump
Well, tonight I really went over the line as of socializing.

Small community have know these kids since they were 8U's. This
was seniors nite. Each year I sort of pick out a kid I have had a
friendship or friendly disagreements with over her career. She was
escorted by her dad, and I sent out a foral arrangement for him to
give to her. Last year in a big game with the tying run on, she went
to far on a check swing [partner in C] and I yelled "She went". She
has all year long joked with me about the call. So on the card I put,
"Yes, You Went", Now go out in the world and conquer whatever you
choose in life to do.
She cried. Naturally in tonights game, I had plate and she is the
catcher for the team. Very few words were spoken during the game.
However, after the game, she hugged my neck.

Excellent, Glen! Just excellent!
Warm fuzzies and kleenex....
mick