While the popularity of the National Football League has grown over the past half century, baseball still remains America's pastime. Watching this group of boys learn and grow has been thrilling to watch and experience. I have been been overwhelmingly been impressed with my son's coaches who have generously volunteered their time led by head coach Jeff Conroy. Moreover, watching not only the nurturing and praise of not only each of his baseball players, but his encouragement of the kids from the opposing squad during the game. Jeff is what good sportsmanship and leadership is about. The kids are excited to play and endeavor to excel at a sport that is over a century and a half old. After the game in the dugout, he always asks the same question first and foremost, "Who had fun today?"

Baseball writer Roger Angell wrote, "Baseball is not life itself, although the resemblance keeps coming up." Sure, it's a game, but it teaches us a lot about life. There are disappointments and achievements, both individually and as a team. You struggle, you get hurt, and yet, you still get up to bat again looking to get back that feeling of exhilaration—to achieve the glory once again. The highs and low of baseball is a reflection of living. We just have to remember to dust ourselves off and get out there and do the best we can.  Coach Jeff consoling my son after being called out.

It is important to have those who encourage you along your journey. Not only did my son have a great set of coaches, but he had outstanding teammates and spectacular group of parents who rooted for the success of each boy out there on the field. Baseball is more than just a sport. It is a way to challenge oneself to become a better player both in a physically but also socially through the interactions between one's peer group and one's coaches. While the game is being taught, the most important thing we can impart of these boys is the values we possess. 

There is nothing more fascinating than to see the development of our son learning a sport and getting over the disappointment of being called out only to get his glove on and run out to the field because there is another inning to play. We are impressed with all of the coaches, umpires, parents and players of the Centerville Baseball Softball League and look forward to gathering again to see our youth back out on the baseball diamond as we see them take the necessary steps to succeed in life as well as the game.