How to Hit a Grand Slam in the World Series

I spent most of my childhood playing for the Cincinnati Reds. Each time I came to the plate, we were playing the Yankees in the 7th game of the World Series, the bases were loaded, it was the bottom of the 9th with two outs and a full count. The pressure was enormous....

Can We Play Pickle?

They are relentless. Or, at least they used to be. “Can we play pickle?” Every day after practice, this was the question. In other words, “Can we run back and forth between two bases and get extremely filthy while trying to avoid being tagged...

Parents Aren’t Going Away (and They Shouldn’t)

Parents are the biggest problem in youth sports. True or false? It would be better if parents were locked in a soundproof room at all times during practice and games. Agree or disagree? If it weren’t for the parents, the players and coaches would have a much...

A Little Hard Work Never Killed Anyone

It was a glorious moment. Two outs. Championship game. Final tournament of the year. Up three runs. Ground ball to third. Routine. Give us those rings! The final out in that game was tangible proof that hard work pays off. Yet, here’s the thing. I would have...

It’s OK Not to Hate Everyone

Childhood can be a cruel experience for some kids. If they aren’t the right size or shape, don’t wear the right stuff, can’t do the right things, or can’t make friends with the right people, they can find themselves on the outside looking in...