Baseball 2021

July 11, 2021

Baseball 2021

I was over the moon to find out both Royce and Mason decided they wanted to give baseball a try. The two of them had played T-ball when they were younger. I was surprised to hear they were hesitant to play baseball being it was a faster pitch. But as luck would have it, Dad was home for two weeks prior to practice starting. The three of them were outside in the scorching heat playing baseball every day. If it hadn’t been for Dennie the boys would have been shy with the ball. But instead they started fast pitch with the confidence they needed.

Royce, at not shock to me, was the smallest on the team. He played with 13/14 year olds (he’s 12). Some of these kids were on special teams. But I’m proud to say that didn’t stop Royce from doing his very best. His team, the Cardinals, called him “smalls”. The kids took him in and really boosted his confidence. Being called “smalls” made him feel good. It was adorable to say the least. Royce really tried hard this year. It was a different pace than he was ever use to. He had a good eye because he was able to walk to first most of the season. He had a beautiful hit but it was a foul ball, totally bummed him out. Royce made contact a few times and that’s all that matters. He had no shame in his efforts. I was not just proud of Royce. I was bewildered by his efforts and his confidence to be one of the big guys. It was a beautiful thing to watch the “small kid” give his all. His confidence was massive. Your dad and I couldn’t have been more proud of you, Royce. I hope you know just because you’re smaller than everyone doesn’t mean you aren’t as good. Your heigh will catch up to you, I promise. Keep doing the hard things! Never quit and never give up.

Mason fit right in with his team. He loved playing this year. When Mason starts something he accomplishes it! He goes into it with his entire heart, soul, and mind. Mason practiced every single day at home. There rarely was a time his mitt wasn’t on his hand. Mason played really well. Only a couple of outs. Like Royce he had a good eye for the ball. He walked to first more often than not. He would watch baseball on YouTube looking for pointers and used them to his advantage.

Mason would stand on home plate hit his bat on the ground, wind up and make position like a professional. Absolutely the cutest thing ever. His confidence was strong! There was one game the coach allowed him to pitch the last inning. That game was memorable. He loved it. From then on he practiced pitching. Although they never used him again he still made sure if they called him to pitch, he was ready. Mason made friends and built moral with everyone around him. His coaches were proud of him.

Mason I admire your ambition to go above and beyond. You really put everything you have into the sport you play. I hope to see you playing next year. Both your dad and I couldn’t be more proud of you. Never quit. You’re going to exceed our expectations.