Kids - gotta love 'em

[Swifty]

They can make you look good and they can make you look bad.  This past Saturday, play at the plate, somehow the catcher attempts a swipe tag and amazingly his glove goes right between the runners legs.  Watching the play develop, there was 'no way' he was going to score, but...calling 'em like I see 'em, I call safe.  Crowd ERUPTS - one fan in particular - seems like he's gonna have a stroke.  After the inning is over, coach asks the catcher if he tug the runner or not, and catcher says no - he missed him.

Fast forward to last night, I have the same team (9-10 year olds).  Before the game I'm walking the field and come across the coach.  I mention that if I have the opportunity, I would like to talk to number 11.  His eyes get real big - what did he do - I say no, no, it's all good.  Just wanted to thank him for his honesty this past Saturday with the play at the plate.  Coach brings him out to the pregame and we talk - real nice moment - told him I appreciated his honesty and he is to be commended for being truthful.  Coach heaps praise on the kid - he has a shy grin - like I said - just a real nice moment.

Later in the game, same team is in the field - play at third and F5 catches the throw - again - out by at least 2 steps - but he puts his glove ON TOP of the base.  Runner slides in to the front of the base - I call him safe.  Another crowd eruption.  I just shake my head and head back behind the plate - call for the next batter.  Nothing more is said.

I love this game!