bkindtooneanother

My son has played select baseball since he was 9 years old and he is graduating this year.  Select baseball was a wonderful experience for my son and our family.  I can't comment about too many of the questions above because I let my husband handle most of those issues.  But speaking from a Mom's point of view the two biggest issues for me were "money" and "family time".  Select ball can be very expensive.  There were times when many teams would pick up the tab but not always.  Hotel, food, and gas for the entire family was not easy.  There were also times when my son wanted a new bat or glove but we had to buy prom dress or dance recital costumes for his sisters.  I guess we could have made it happen but I wanted him to know that there were other needs and wants in the family besides his. Family time can be an issue.  My son is the youngest of three.  There were times when I had to make him miss a game during a tournament to attend one of his sister's functions.  There were even times when I made his miss a morning game on Sunday to attend Mass.  No he wasn't happy and yes I knew how important it was for the players to be at every game.  I hated that he had to sit the bench for a couple of innings when he returned but these things are important and shouldn't be over looked. It made him a better player in the end and taught him accountability. Looking back I would not have changed a thing.  Select baseball can be a wonderful experience but you must remember to stay grounded.  It is a great opportunity to travel and compete and play with the best. He made some great friends and played for some of the best coaches around.