Last season we were the Mud Dogs with a losing season, this season we are Adrenaline with a winning season! After our first season of travel ball some of the coaches decided to start their own travel baseball team. This season we held our own tryouts to fill the open positions on our 9U team instead of everyone making the team. What a huge difference this name change has been for the boys. The boys didn’t understand why they had to change team names, but this NEW team has really been a boost to their confidence. I love seeing them so excited about winning and receiving Championship Rings.
Don’t take that the wrong way–there is nothing wrong with losing a game, but when the boys never won a game it really hurt their confidence. Since becoming Adrenaline the boys have been on a winning streak. They did so great at their last tournament that they could have came in first place, but I think they were just too overwhelmed from all the pressure. They were really disappointed at the loss, but they have come so far–from losing every game to nearly winning the entire tournament.
I think once the boys learn how to handle all the pressure they will be unstoppable. They also need to learn how to bounce back or shake off mistakes so that doesn’t affect their ability to excel. The boys are 8 to 10 years of age and are learning a very valuable life lesson. Not only are the boys enhancing their baseball skills playing year round, but also making lifelong friendships.
If you are thinking about signing your child up for travel ball of any sort make sure you go to some of their games and possibly try practicing with different teams to be sure that you are joining the right team for your child. No team will ever be perfect, but if you don’t check out multiple teams you may be missing out on the best fit for your child. I know a lot of teams in our area have open practices so that they can see if their are any talented players they may want to pick up.
Does your child play travel ball?