The Holiday Season has always been my favorite time of the year along with opening day of the next Softball Season. As we just finished our annual Christmas Party for our team and staff, it always brings awareness of how many people it takes to build a successful program and the number of people that throughout the year have a major influence in the atmosphere we create for our players to grow as players and people. The Holiday Season is always a time to say thanks to the special people in our life that can play a major role or even just a role of support and encouragement. Just remember that it takes numerous people in our lives to achieve success both on and off the field. Two simple words “Thank You” can go a long way in showing our appreciation for their hard work and support of our goals and ambitions in life. In staying with the true meaning of Christmas, it is always a special time to give thanks for your health and God given talents that allow us all to participate in a game that we love.
Softball is also an opportunity to play a team sport that builds tremendous relationships that can last for a life time. As we find ourselves in the heat of the battle, we also need to find the time to show thanks to our teammates for their support as we ride the emotional roller coaster throughout our competitions. It is a special moment that sometimes we do not realize until we are done playing, to look back at the special moments we go through as a team which ultimately prepares us for the real world. Learning to trust one another, earn respect through hard work, and most of all admire the effort, pride, and togetherness that a season can bring. Playing a team sport is a privilege that I hope you will all realize and give thanks that you have had the opportunity to be a part of a special experience and group of people.
As we ring in a New Year and move into 2012, it is always fun to hear people talk about changing their appearance, fitness levels, and overall health. The New Year for me is the excitement of beginning a new season and embracing the process and challenges of another Softball season. Everyone starts with a clean slate and lofty goals to have the best season ever! Just remember, we can’t get ahead of ourselves and think about the end result. Control the controllable is always the best advice: Attitude, Effort and Focus!
Through all of these special moments playing this special game, don’t ever forget that life is very precious! We all must learn to enjoy each and every day along with the people in our lives that we love unconditionally! Win, lose or draw, we can never forget to show that love to our parents, brothers, sisters, friends, teammates and anyone that holds a special place in your life. Softball will always be just a game and it is the people and our relationship in softball that make the experience so very special. We are not guaranteed tomorrow so make today and every day a special day! “Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a present!”
We will not be remembered for the games we play but we will be remembered for who we become and the number of people we can touch in our life time in a positive way!
Have a Blessed & Happy Holiday!
Until next month,
Coach Candrea