Woodbridge Softball Association

A Parent's Wish

Dear Coach:

Tomorrow morning my child starts softball. He's going to step out on
the diamond and his great adventure, that will probably include joys
and disappointments, begins.

So I wish you would take him by his young hand and teach him the
things he will have to know. Teach him to respect the umpire and that
his judgment is final.

Teach him not to hate his competitors, but to admire their skill. Teach
him it is just as important to encourage and support his team-mates,
as it is to get a home run.

Teach him to play as part of a team and never to be selfish. Teach
him never to blame his team-mates when a ball is dropped or a batter
strikes out. Teach him that winning is not everything, but trying to win
is.

Teach him it is far more honorable to lose than it is to cheat. Teach
him to be a competitor. Teach him to close his ears to the howling
mob and to stand up for himself if he thinks he is right. Teach him
gently but don't coddle him, because only the test of fire makes fine
steel.

This is a big order, Coach, and I place my child in your hands. See
what you can do for him. He is such a nice little fellow.

A Parent