Play Ball

As High School Baseball gets ready to begin across the country, many young athletes will begin to see visions and dream dreams. They will envision themselves in many different scenarios being productive and saving the day. I can remember playing “whiffle ball” in the front yard - pretending to be in the World Series with the bases loaded and two outs in the bottom of the 9th. Of course I delivered, and in our dreams we always do. So, dare to dream because every day someone accomplishes the impossible.

To accomplish those dreams athletes must be willing to set high standards and not be satisfied with anything other than their best effort. Remember, nothing worth while ever comes easy. Be focused, set goals, know what you want and act on it. Legendary Notre Dame Football Coach Lou Holtz in his book “Winning Every Day” states: “you don’t have to be the most talented person to be successful, but you do need to get the most out of your talent”. Coach Holtz understood this from personal experience and is an example of overcoming obstacles in the highly competitive field of Division I Football.

The obstacles to accomplishing our dreams Holtz states are: complacency, lack of confidence, listening to negative assessments and pressure. Preparation dispels these obstacles and builds confidence. Only those who do not prepare feel pressure. Therefore, make a commitment to excellence, give 100% effort 100% of the time and you will see your dreams come true. Have a great year.