I know very little about baseball, so don't expect to read any stats here about District 9's 12 year old championship. Today's blog isn't about any score or specific play. When it comes down to it, as the years progress for these fine young athletes, the minute details may tend to get blurry anyway. But, what will stay with them forever may be far more important in life's big scheme. What mattered today are the lessons learned, the relationships garnered and the opportunities created by having such a meaningful experience.
There are many more pics...click here to see them.
These kids didn't just step into today's victory. I know this because since kindergarten, I have been watching them grow. This is a very driven group of kids and I'll go out on a limb here to suggest that it goes well beyond this baseball team. To help prove my point, just the other day the Coginchaug girl's 12 year old softball all-stars also won their district title. While my own son doesn't share the baseball field with this group, he shares a classroom, a school and many mutual experiences with them. I am often dumbfounded by the stellar crew of trail blazers that have traversed the halls of Memorial Middle School for the past two years. They try and seem to excel in every sport or endeavor imaginable. They are not afraid to be unique and showcase their own talents. In the same breath, there are also fearless in celebrating each others uniqueness, something unusual during the middle school years. They are a true community.
So how did they get this far? Based on the many parents getting soaked in the stands today, the picture became very clear. While the kids ultimately get the kudos for their hard work, it's their circle of devoted parents that have molded them into the people they are. The stands were abuzz with excitement and enthusiasm put aside especially for the Coginchaug kids. The partnership from one parent to another was clearly evident in the shared celebrations that came after each scored run. While I only know one of the coaches well, the formidable trio of Vallone, Strang and Genest proved they truly know their team. They brought out the best in their boys calling for focus, determination, action and compassion. These parent coaches should be commended for their own exemplary positions.
Coginchaug All Stars, you've got what it takes. Because of that, you've made it to the big leagues. What ever happens next, I hope you continue to embrace your talents and be thankful to those who helped get you there. Congratulations on all your efforts!
