Sunday, September 18, 2011

Back to the Diamond

Last Saturday, Tate had his first game with his new, fall team, the Durham Bulls. A lot of the same kids from last season are playing together again, along with a couple of new ones. The biggest change is that because the league didn't have enough 5 year old teams signed up to play t-ball, they bumped the teams they did have up to the 6 year old "modified" coach's pitch league.

In this league, the players get four chances to hit off a pitch from their coach. Then they get to use the tee. That, in itself, isn't terrible. Tate's been hitting off of Brad for years now. But the biggest difference is that they have an umpire, who counts outs. So not everyone gets to bat each inning. And if you get called out, you go back to your dugout.

But I have to say, I'm pleasantly surprised that our team is handling the changes pretty well. It's forcing them to understand the game a little better and realize that they need to try their best. Tate is LOVING it - no surprise there. He wakes up and puts his uniform on first thing each Saturday morning. I'm so proud of his devotion and "heart" each and every game. He takes it seriously, but also has so much fun with his friends. He's the first to cheer them on for their good plays - which is really sweet to witness.

Yesterday, Tate had a fantastic game. He hit off the pitch all three times he was up to bat and hustled around the bases each time. He played second base, shortstop, and catcher (I think he just really wanted to try on the gear) and was able to get two kids from the other team out in the first and second innings. He truly is quite the little ball player.

Second at bat - hard hit grounder up the first baseline
Shortstop
The view from a catcher
Ready and waiting
All smiles after a great game!
Watching his big brother

Love to y'all,
Tracy

No comments: