A year ago we weren't sure if Jake would get to play organized sports because of his limitations with his heart. Soccer was always a definite no from the cardiologist--too much running! When we asked about t-ball after his last good check-up in January, her words were, "sure, that's liking watching paint dry!"
Sure enough, she was right about the paint drying part, but we were nonetheless very excited Jake got the opportunity to play on a team!
He played through a church league at Spring Baptist Church, and I can't say enough wonderful things about the program, the church, and the members of that church. It was a shorter season than most which was perfect for Jake. He had three very patient coaches and 9 other adorable teammates! They were the Orioles, and I'm pretty sure there is nothing cuter than little four and five year olds in baseball uniforms--so stinkin' cute!
Jake started out slow as it always takes him awhile to acclimate to new situations and people, but by the end of the season, he decided he loves baseball and can't wait to play again. The first few practices and games, the coaches mostly had to teach the boys not to tackle each other and that it was okay for just one person to catch the ball :) Jake was good at hitting and always connected the first time with the tee. When it got to running, he wasn't so motivated. I think a mixture of his heart slowing him down and his laid back personality combined for him to be more of a stroller than a runner! He always looked adorable though and quite frequently would stop and pose for pictures.
Fielding was a little slow a first, too. Game #2 he literally fell asleep in the outfield but we got home to discover he was running 102 temp. Poor Jakers! Game #3 he fielded lots of balls, was more aggressive, and came home with the game ball. He is very proud of that! (We are, too!)
We are very proud of our little Oriole and hope he gets to play again in the fall.
 |
| The Orioles |
 |
| His first at-bat |
 |
| Talking with the coaches |
 |
| On first base |
 |
| Some of his fans--Leah and Papa Al. I'm sad I don't have a picture of he and JoJo. She was his #1 fan and came to every game. The other moms said she was the most fun grandma there. Is anyone surprised by that? :) |
 |
| Jake and his game ball |
 |
| Jake and Gracie with their friend Jackson. He was on a different Orioles team |
His first at bat:
A year ago we weren't sure if Jake would get to play organized sports because of his limitations with his heart. Soccer was always a definite no from the cardiologist--too much running! When we asked about t-ball after his last good check-up in January, her words were, "sure, that's liking watching paint dry!"
No comments:
Post a Comment