Playing the Game with a Little League H.E.A.R.T

This past weekend I went to go watch my cousin play in his T-ball league.  I absolutely love sports, so it really doesn't matter to me what I'm watching, as long as the players play hard, keep the complaining to a minimum and play their H.E.A.R.T's out.

As I'm watching these little guys and gals play, I can't help but notice that most of them are completely clueless to the rules of the game, but they really DON'T care...they are out there to have a good time!  Some may or may not actually "enjoy" playing, but the looks on their faces wouldn't give that away.

Most of these kids are playing their first year of organized ball and are out there on the diamond to experience a true game.  Regardless if score is kept or not, they are learning sportsmanship and the basic rules.  Most of all, they are learning how to play hard, smart, as a team and with H.E.A.R.T!

It's sad that as most kids get older, they lose the basic concept of how the game should be played (see the previously mentioned characteristics...) and the joy of the game which keeps them involved.  These youngsters showed a ton of enjoyment during their 3 innings and generally kept huge grins on their faces.

So let's not let this simple lesson that a bunch of 4-6 year old's have shown us...The game (any game) is about having fun and playing with H.E.A.R.T.  If you do this, even in a loss, you'll know that you gave it your all and that's all that matters.

Dayton Little League Giants

Dayton Little League White Sox