Boys of Summer

After two seasons of Wee Ball, which was essentially complete adorable chaos masquerading as baseball, Matt moved up to Tee Ball this year. Tee Ball is very different from Wee Ball; not so much in the skill level, which is pretty similar, or the rules (everyone still bats), but in the attitude of the parents and coaches. Tee Ball is TERRIBLY SERIOUS AND IMPORTANT AND CERTAINLY NOT JUST A GAME, you crazy parent, you. There are rain delays in t-ball, and a tournament, and who cares that there is a severe thunderstorm warning and basketball sized hail, WE HAVE TO GET THE GAME IN. Thankfully, our coach and the parents on our team were normal, reasonable people who remembered (most of the time) that these were five year olds and not veteran ballplayers. Matt had a rough start to the season but made huge improvements as it wore on.

Cheesing it up for Team United Way:






Matt at the bat:




He did a good job at the plate this season, after Charles helped break him of his habit of throwing the bat.

He struggled a little running the bases, just because his legs are shorter than most of the other players. He was thrown out several times at first and second base, but he handled it well, which is important. He also scored quite a few runs, including one all the way from second, which is pretty impressive for a little guy.



He played outfield almost all season, which he wasn't crazy about. He much preferred the few games where he got to play 2nd base - way cooler, apparently.





The best part of the season was actually the tournament - our team turned out to be very good. We made it to the finals and ended up in second place for the entire T-ball league, which was fantastic. Matt even knocked in the tying run. We were very proud of all the boys.

At the tournament - post-game ceremony:


Getting a league medal from Coach:


Despite a few speed bumps and some unbelievable moments, mostly involving crazed parents on opposing teams, we made it through the season. Charles did a great job helping in the dugout and outfield with the boys and Matt really showed a lot of improvement. As long as it stays fun for him, we'll keep letting him play.