8U softball is therapy

Of course, some 8U coaches might think they'll need therapy after the season. But since I don't coach 8U, it is so refreshing after a high school season to go out and watch 8U softball. The girls are having fun! Even if they can't actually do what the coach is asking, they most certainly are trying which is more than can be said for high school players on some days. There are smiles throughout the practice and the game I went to the other day was great.

No, the team my girls were on didn't win, but I saw my 4-year old hit a coach-pitch ball for the first time ever in a game. Because she is the smallest on the team everyone was so excited! Even though it seemed like an eternity before her little legs got her to first, she made it safely to the bag.

My 6-yr-old never reached first safely, but during the course of the game, as she was getting ready to go into the on deck circle, one of the coaches asked her if she was enjoying herself. She already had a huge smile on her face, so she just nodded and ran out to the field. That was great to see.

After the game was over, we went home and my oldest daughter (age 9) asked her younger sisters, "What's the most important thing about softball?"

My 4-year-old said, "Don't talk when the coach is talking." That made me smile, at least I know she' paying attention at least part of the time in practice. My oldest daughter acknowledged that was important, but asked again, what was most important. Her sisters made a few more guesses, most of which had to do with listening to the coach or trying your best. Then finally I said, "Have fun."

My oldest daughter said, "Yes! Have fun!"

That made my day.