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Fun and fundamentals might be the best way to describe the 2018 summer season for the St. Thomas Minor Baseball Association’s Junior Rookie Ball team. The group of youngsters, all learning the game together, focused on having a good time on the diamond while improving their skills.
And they managed to do pretty well, too, finishing in a three-way tie for 5th place (out of 10 teams). Not bad at all for a team that featured only one player (out of 10) who had played Rookie Ball before!
For coach Tyson Alexander, the focus was on the basics – fielding grounders and mentally preparing where to throw the ball, a proper batting stance and keeping your eye on the baseball all the way in. And, perhaps most importantly, teamwork skills and helping each other improve along the way.
“The players all listened to the advice we gave them, and they put it into action,” said Alexander, who has been coaching baseball (or softball) for nine years. “To see how each player grew as a person and as a ballplayer was something spectacular.”
Playing out of the Centennial Sports Club Minor Baseball Complex, and wearing the Impressions Printing logo on their uniforms, the St. Thomas youngsters encouraged each other throughout the season – whether a play was made successfully or not. And they took turns at various positions on the field throughout the season – with no arguments.
“Who knew that in 10 weeks time that such improvements could be made,” said Alexander, who had coached St. Thomas T-Ball two years ago. “The smiles, laughter and personal pride that each player showed will always be something I’ll remember.”
Contributions by Tyson Alexander
