The Rookies

The first week we came back to NC, our oldest son, Ethan, started playing baseball. He was "drafted" onto the Bulls Rookie team for the North Durham Little League. We have been pleased with the instruction, coaching staff and encouraging nature of the season. Our little slugger was able to hit several home runs and is beginning to make some progress in his fielding.


 

Each week we saw his concentration on the game get more focused,

but there were always occasional slip-ups - especially in the dug-out when a team mate pulled out his Mom's iphone! 

Ethan's batting went well most games.  The next to last game he actually hit two home runs in one game!

Each game the coach gave out one or two "game balls" to players that had performed well.  Toward the end of the season, Ethan was excited to finally receive a game ball.  I think I was happiest because he received it primarily due to his good fielding that day, which is a bit less glamorous than hitting home runs - but like they say, the best offense is good defense.  We want him to learn it's not all about showing off and trying to hit the ball out of the park, but being a solid team player with excellent sportsmanship.   

 So Ethan's first Little League experience ended in a season Championship title, new friends, new skills and lots of good memories.  Now for a bit of a break until "spring training" rolls around!