Once upon a time, there was a boy named Steve. He loved to watch baseball with his dad. He grew up watching college and major league ball and eventually learned to love playing the game himself. His Dad helped him learn how to think like a ball player. As his dad lost his ability to play with him, he helped him run through scenario after scenario. This mental preparation helped him become the ball player he was and the coach he has become. Steve lost his dad at the age of 19.
At the age of 24, Steve became a dad himself. He raised three boys who also love the game of baseball. All three had the opportunity to experience baseball in the same capacity. They watched games and learned how to think like a ball player. They also got the opportunity to learn under their dad as he coached their teams.
Steve's first state baseball appearance was in 1986, when he went with the high school team as a bat boy. His second and third state baseball appearances were in 1992 and 1993 with his high school baseball team. He played second base. His most recent state appearance was in 2019 with Tanner's high school baseball team. And today, he leaves for another state appearance. This time with Brady.
To say these experiences are special is an understatment. Baseball has been a huge part of who he is and what he loves. Our family has gotten to experience both the highs and lows of this very sport.
To say Steve is a good coach would also be an understatment. He is so much more than a baseball coach. He is a dad, a friend, a mentor, and he has loved all of his players. He teaches them what it means to be a good teammate. He pushes them to believe in themselves and in the greater good. He truly believes that they are a family. Every player. Every stat. Every minute of every game. It is all for the team. He helps them face adversity with grace. He helps them see their talent and their timing. He loves them. Truly. And we are so glad to call him ours.
I've looked through so many pictures lately. With baseball and graduation, I've done nothing, but scroll through these pictures trying to find the right one that portrays their talents and skills. But what I've been able to see more, are not the moments when they individually did their best, but when they came together as one.
No matter what happens, this team has won.
I couldn't be happier for Steve, Brady, and for all of the boys and their families.
Go CATS!!
