The school year is almost over, and as previously stated, can’t come soon enough. We’re now in baseball season, where Riley is once again the smallest kid on the team. He’s also the most competitive. But there remains this disconnect between his desire to win, and understanding his own role in it happening. To him, winning is something he just wills to happen, and is the responsibility of his teammates. When they struggle pitching, or batting, he gets frustrated and critical. But until the moment comes when it’s his turn to perform, he doesn’t turn that spotlight on himself and think that he can affect the outcome.
Last week during a scrimmage he was playing first base, probably the only chance he’ll get to do that this season, because his ball skills just aren’t there. Two plays came to him. On both throws he planted his foot on first, and extended his glove, and both times the ball whapped in and out of the basket, followed by him throwing his glove, and tears. To make it worse, on a huge hit to the outfield, with him the runner on first, I sent him home as he rounded third base. I knew the second I did it he wouldn’t make it, and he didn’t. More tears and frustration.
And no conversation seems to help. He wants to be good by osmosis, not by practice. When he’s at practice he works hard, but outside the confines of that required time and some playing casual catch that’s more about fun than getting better, he doesn’t want to work at it. I don’t know whether to push harder or lay off completely. I don’t need this kid to be a great baseball player. I want him to give it his best, enjoy it and learn something about himself. And I love his competitive nature…it’s a pure part of him—something I don’t share but admire. It means so much to him to win. It’s amazing to watch. I just wish he had a better grasp on it and a little perspective. But I can’t give it to him.
Anyone who knows how is welcome to teach me. I sure know I have lots of practice to do.
