A lot of kids across the world play baseball. Not as many compete. There is a huge difference between the two.
A kid who plays the game:
- Shows up when the coach tells him to.
- Practices well if a coach is watching.
- Is content with going base-to-base.
- Is ok with losing if he goes 3-4 at the plate or has 10 strikeouts on the mound.
- Would rather be a cheerleader during crunch time instead of having the ball or bat in their hand(s).
- Wait for the coach to call a practice.
- Takes no risks. Only does what the coach tells him to do.
- Only likes to practice the things they do well.
- Complains about “the grind” of a baseball season.
- Views opponents as friends and peers during the game.
A kid who competes …
- Shows up at whatever time is necessary to prepare himself for the game.
- Is at 100% focus every second he is between the foul lines.
- Looks for opportunities to take additional bases.
- Is not ok with losing at any time.
- Wants the ball in their hand or be in the box with the game on the line.
- Practices whenever and wherever they get the chance. Even if it’s by themselves.
- Understands that they will often see opportunities on the field that a coach cannot and takes action on their own.
- Practices what they need to work on.
- Relishes “the grind” of the baseball season.
- Views opponents as the enemy during games.
Do you play the game or do you compete? Which one it is will go a long way in determining how far you go in the game.
