The Last of Times

Today was a day. I've known for a while that this day would come, but dang it was hard nonetheless.

Kendall decided a couple months ago that she wanted to hang up her cleats after this season. It's a hard path to walk as a parent, wanting them to play forever, while honoring/respecting their choices.

Today was her last day on the field, our last day as coach/player, and my last day as coach. It was brutal and I held it together until that very last out. Man, those tears came hard. I could not be more proud of Kendall and her softball journey. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life getting to be on the bucket and watch her grow as a player.

There have been so many players that have I have coached. It's the best job there is, hands down. They have all impacted my life in ways I never knew were imaginable.

Coaching is tough. At times, brutal. But watching these ladies grow, learn, battle, win, lose, and develop a passion for the game....that's what it's all about.

#1 - you're the absolute best, kiddo. It's been the greatest joy of my life.

Family

 

Grit & Endurance

 Sometimes the timing of events in life is quite ironic.  We had some major drama on our team, and immediately after I played the "manager" card and took the trash out, the team did a complete 180 and played their hearts out in this tourney.  I am ridiculously proud of these ladies.  It was a much-needed moment.

Get it, Girl

 

Father Time

Please slow down.

I need this to last just a little bit longer.

Tri-Cities Tourney

 Our team traveled to Tri-Cities, WA, for its first out-of-state tourney.  We had so much fun, and the girls got to play against teams that were brand new to them.  They really did a great job!

GTS Strong

 As with anything new, there's a learning curve.  The first tourney was a total bummer for the girls, but they put in the work at practices and league, and ended up taking second place in the second tourney they played in.  Not too shabby. Super proud of them!