First Impressions

I wanted to share something a player recently emailed me. The names and a couple of words have been deleted to protect the innocent. It means a lot to me as a coach when a kid realizes a mistake and does something about. I feel pretty certain this kid is going to work hard the rest of the way.

"Dear Coach,

I know that we dont know each other very well and this past weekend was our first time seeing each other and my first time playing for you. I sat down and thought about what you said that it doesnt matter if you hit 10 homeruns or throw out 10 runners that if someone sees you being lazy or not hustling that they will immediately mark off your name. I have been told since I was a kid that you can NEVER change someones first impression of you...During the game on Sunday, the play where I let a runner steal home from second was embarrasing and out of character for me. I am usually known for being the one person on the team who is the hardest worker and is always hustling. In the 8th grade i received the intestinal fortitude award from the coach which was described as the award to the person who is more about the team than themselves and the player that has the "biggest *****." Also this past year i had knee surgery so I had to work extra hard so that I could get the strength back in my leg so that I could play this year. I received the coaches award this past year for always hustling and working hard so that i could be ready for the season pain free from the surgery. I know that there are a million catchers out there better than me but the LAST thing I want you thinking is that i dont hustle or try my hardest 100% of the time. I know that it is too late to change your first impression and this email doesnt prove to you that I am a hard worker but it does mean that I am going to prove it to you. Your one rule was to respect the game...In that play on Sunday, I did not respect the game. I know that it was just one play and you may not even remember it by now but I couldnt seam to let it go. I rather be known as a guy who isn't the best player on the team than the guy that doesnt work the hardest on the team. Thank you for what you said to me in the dugout and i look forward to our next tournaments together."

 

Very impressive young man...he could play on my team. Thanks for sharing