develop |diˈveləp|
verb ( -veloped , -veloping )
1 grow or cause to grow and become more mature, advanced, or elaborate
Recently my oldest son experienced the first real game of his life. Joel is seven years old and he is playing machine pitch for the Red Sox. Based on the performance it was also the first time for many of his teammates!
The kids are raw and have no concept of the game. At one point the coach had to call time and go tie the center fielders cleats. I couldn’t help but think this is development at its finest. When the ball is hit into play instead of throwing the ball the players generally grab it and take off running. If they do throw the ball chances are good that they throw it to the wrong place.
Their coach is responsible for their development. But I noticed an incredible challenge that each player and the coach must deal with. As soon as the ball is put in play parents, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and of course the coach all begin shouting instructions. Not only is it absolutely chaotic but, the instructions keep changing with each error committed. “Throw it to first, throw it to second, throw it home!” What’s a kid to do?
While the coach communicates instructions in a loud, clear, and recognizable voice the player must learn to listen for that voice in the midst of all the competing instructions.
In this age of information I like the coaches voice best! What about you?
My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. (John 10:27)
That is an awesome way to look at it!
This blog is so cool! I like the categories and recommended books sections. The whole thing is amazing! Great job and thanks!
I love the way you can put an everyday situation and work the word of God into it…AMAZING!!
I remember those days of t-ball & machine pitch so I can totally relate to this.
My little brother plays baseball so I have seen this personally; parents are rather notorious for “back-stands coaching”.
When we lived in Georgia we used to go to our grandsons ballgames. I decided the kids would learn and enjoy the game more and learn good sportsmenship if the parents would stay home or if someone put duct tape on the parents mouth.
As a coach, sometimes its hard to get a child to pay attention enough to here your voice and it’s frustrating. As a player, I need to learn how to focus on the coaches voice better. Thank you God for being an understanding and patient coach, and not a Bobby Night.
Good stuff on Bobby Knight Casey!