(Softball pics were delivered the day we returned after Vanessa broke her collarbone. And she scored a cool backdrop because of the pouring rain outside.)
This was the first year Vanessa was intrinsically motivated to play her best, consistently. Her coach got that it was her breakthrough year. We were so thankful she was placed with Coach Mike. He had a nice balance of competitiveness and encouragement to do your best. He also defended his team well when other teams were not playing by the rules. That's hard to come by!!! He challenged Vanessa.
Coach Mike was so sad for her when news came that she would have to be on the bench the rest of the season. We went to support her team even after she broke her collarbone, cause that's what teammates do, right? She enjoyed being there and became labeled the team mascot for the Red Thunder. Kind of fitting, right?!
We'll be in touch for the next steps for Coach Mike's team. :-)
Zane ended his season with outstanding game play. As a third baseman, shortstop, and pitcher, he got a few outs, and while in the pitcher position, he caught a ball and then threw it to 2nd, making it double outs. He made it to the bases every time he went up to hit. And so he ended the season with a potential desire to play again. We're not very excited about the team he was on, so we'll consider a friend's team if indeed he plays again, hoping for consistency and communication to players just learning . . .
