We woke up from our dream season last week in a second collision with Red Mountain High School - the tournament's top seed. The Mountain Lions zapped us in two games then lost the state title in extra innings to defending champion Basha.
Disappointing? Sure, though what a ride! As the # 16 seed - the last team picked for the tournament - expectations weren't too high for our kids. Fooled 'em! In game one Xavier upset Red Mountain 2-1. # 8 Gilbert Mesquite went next 10-2 and then # 4 Buena in a last inning comeback 4-2 (that's the celebration on the left). Suddenly # 16 was in the Final Four!
Then, we ran out of gas, finished third, and a team that had struggled all spring before finding its rhythm at the right time had to be satisfied with almost being state champs.
For my daughter Tess it was "good-bye Gators." That's her in the picture. As a four-year varsity player, Tess saw and did a lot. The team was a train wreck her freshman year, winning just five games. A change of coaches and attitude brought them to the state quarterfinals as a sophomore, the semi's as a junior, and the return trip to the final four as a senior. This time, Tess was the starting pitcher with a team of can-do girls that got off to a slow start and then found a way to win when it counted most.
We've been at this game since 2002 - those of you involved know it takes over life year round. I'd recommend it to anyone as the consummate life-learning experience. Tess saw it all: winners, losers, micro-managers, hands-off managers, teen idols, great parents, bad parents, nasty coaches, good coaches, divas and dramas of the best and worst kind. In club ball she played on a state champion and went deep in three national tournaments before falling short. The falling short part is tough - there are always tears. But as a friend pointed out last week, playing important games allows the girls to experience life on a big stage and discover that part of growing up is learning to live with disappointment. Couldn't agree more.
We'll play club ball this summer and then who knows? There are no plans to continue to the next level, though she gets regular inquiries. Tess is determined to make a life apart from softball and I'm sure she can do so successfully because she's learned so much playing this game.
Good-by Gators and good luck! Thanks parents and coaches. It's been an outstanding experience.
I'm sorry to hear that, but I think you have another path to go on. But at least, you will treasure the experiences you has with the games you had. I like your post. Keep posting !
Posted by: Death Race | April 25, 2011 at 08:53 PM
Well, sorry to hear that but I think there's always opportunity comes so grab it either if it comes. You did a great job, at least you did your best to win. Thanks for sharing !
Posted by: Spartan300workout | July 11, 2011 at 10:52 PM