Mermaids? Unicorns? The Holy Grail? The Bermuda Triangle?
All “Imaginary” right? Well, how about the parent who really does know what is right for their children when the children want something else? I know, they don’t exist.
Every once in a great while I hear about the rare situation where a player has fallen back in love with playing the game. This player wanted to quit playing, but their parents wouldn’t allow it.
The usual rational used by parents revolves around the whole, “We didn’t raise a quitter!” or “you made a commitment and you are going to honor it!” arguments. And the player involved, while not wanting to hear this, is “convinced” (blackmailed) into sticking with the team.
What happens next?
A miracle!
Something happens that re-lights the passion a player thought they had lost. A big win, a great play, a new friend or a great coach can all be the spark that ignites the fire. Which of these will be the cause is not always clear but the spark is there, nevertheless.
Unfortunately, the happy ending is a rare thing but it is a reason to have hope. So Mom and Dad, don’t be afraid to take your shot, but understand that the risk is high. How high, the fourth installment will take a look at what it looks like when it goes really wrong.
About the Author: Tory Acheson brings a wealth of knowledge to the Fastpitch Prep staff. He has coached at all levels of the game, including the last 25 years at the college level at the University of Wisconsin – Parkside, Tennessee Tech and Kennesaw State. He began his coaching career at the high school level spending 9 years Whitnall High School in Greenfield, Wis. and is now working as a professional softball instructor.
