I wrote this in an update to Continental Little League, but I wanted to share it here too…
As a community, there is so much that goes into running a league. There is a budget, there is labor, there is coaching, and there is the kind of growth that we see in our kids with patience, perseverence, and practice throughout a baseball season.
A week and a half ago, I was at my sons practice on a Wednesday evening. I had spent the night chatting with parents and board members about how we would likely be canceling opening day in a few weeks. As pratice was wrapping up, the push notifications started pouring in. First it was a player from my home town Utah Jazz, and then Tom Hanks. Everything changed over the next 24 hours.
Canceling opening day was that start. Postponing the season came next. Over the last 10 days, I have tried to find some normalcy in baseball, something that has been incredibly difficult for me.
Today I was at Ygnacio Valley Elementary. I had a few goals, drop off some equipment that was taking up space in the garage at home, and mow the fields. We spent a lot of time and effort leveling the fields a few weeks ago, and I was curious to see how the fields looked.
There are a few spots in the grass, but the fields look great. I brought my two youngest over this afternoon to hit a ball around. We bumped in to a few Continental families, and was reminded that today would have been opening day.
March 21st. Opening Day.
It has been on my calendar for months now. We lined up the photo vendor, coffee and shaved ice were going to be available. The Oakland A’s, were going to attend, and yes… Stomper was promised. Kaiser asked if they could come, and bring activities around health and wellness. We were going to proudly unveil a new announcer booth on Jones Field, and a new scoreboard to match. UA Local 342 has been instrumental in the process, and we want to thank them for their support.
Baseball is still around the corner. The Continental Little League board is anxiously awaiting guidance from the Contra Costa Health Department, and Little League Baseball on when to start the season. We are planning on playing a full season as soon as possible, and are leaning on the Continental Family for support in the process.
For what to do now, there is nothing better then playing catch with your kid. I’m not a doctor, but I’m pretty sure that time spent playing catch is added exponentially to the end of your life. If you are looking for more, the league has full access to the parent and coaching drills for Big Al Baseball available. There are age specific drills that can make a huge difference for any player.
Lastly, I’d never suggest just watching TV, but every game of the A’s and the Giants on TV right now, they don’t seem to lose. (Personally, I love watching the Yankees lose too… ?) Games are great for watching mechanics, watching form, and explaining to kids that even the great strike out on occasion.
Anyways, wanted to keep in touch, and let you know that social distancing doesn’t have to mean a life without baseball. We had a rolicking game of whiffle ball in the front yard today…
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Jake Spurlock
Continental Little League, President
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