Hey batter, batter

Never did we ever expect an 8U softball season
to be so incredibly fun.
Because of her birthdate,
Alexis was put on a coach-pitch team
with mainly second graders this spring.

We were a little nervous since she'd only ever played tee ball,
and since a good portion of that season was rained out last year.
But under such patient, encouraging and wonderful coaches,
we were amazed by the player she became.
She went from swinging at pitches for the very first time -
to going 4 for 4 in the end-of-season tournament.

She nearly took off her coach's head during her last at bat,
right up the middle.
Perhaps her shining moment was one tough game
where she took the plate with two previous strikeouts
under her belt and two quick strikes.
It was earlier on in the season,
and she was feeling pretty sad.
Imagine the excitement when she drove in the game tying run
(and one batter later, the girls went on to win).
Everyone was screaming, cheering, high 5ing,
and she definitely got her moment in the spotlight.

Her team, the Smashing Dragons, tied for second place
in the regular season and ended in third on tournament day.
But more than that, they truly became a team.
They had the cutest little softball cheers they'd
chant/sing from the dugout.
They each selected a walk up song to play
as they stepped up to the plate.
They were rewarded after the games for best hustle,
sportsmanship, best offensive and defensive plays.
They came to understand and really enjoy the game.
And they became good buddies,
as did all of their parents.

It was truly a wonderful few months of Saturdays
spent at the ball field.
Vic was able to keep the scorebook and act as
a team manager a few of the games,
and you should have seen his smile!