Sunday, March 2, 2008

Coaching Youth Sports

Yesterday was the first day of practice for Hikes Point Optimist and Matt's team, the Padres, had their first practice. I have the pleasure of once again helping to coach the team with Scott Warner, who was Matt's Head Coach last Summer.

This year we have a whole group of kids that I have never coached before with the exception of Matt and Scott's son, Jake. We did the usual introduction of teammates and coaches and got on with the practice. I can't express how much fun I have interacting with these guys each year. It seems like we all get caught up in the daily routines of work, school, homework, dinner, baths and bedtime that we hardly ever get to just PLAY.

Each season, this is my chance to play outdoors with the kids. This year the big difference seems to be their development and maturity. I immediately noticed walking up to the guys that they were much taller than last season. Warming up, I noticed the POP of the gloves and the heat on the balls.

I also noticed during practice how they seem to know the basic fundamentals that we've been coaching for years. Most of the kids have played 4-5 years now and have a good sense of the basics. It should be a fun season and I look forward to PLAYING in the sunshine with "the boys of summer".

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