2009 Season Recap
8/25/2009
The Dream Ends

On Wednesday night, the Rocks season concluded with a 4-3 loss to the Shamrocks in 10 innings.  It was a well played game by both teams.  The Shamrocks never gave up despite being down by 4 runs entering the bottom of the ninth.  On behalf of the Park National league, the Rocks wish all the remaining teams in the tournament good luck.

 

To my teammates:

First and foremost, it was a great 2009 season.  We realized a goal that we set 13 years ago – get to the state tournament.  Not only did we reach the tournament, we were competitive when many may have doubted us.  This is a true reflection on our character.  We should only applaud ourselves on a fantastic season.  As we pack away the bats and balls until next year, we can rest easily knowing that there are only 4 other teams that can say that they had a better season than us.  Congratulations. 

 

The Rocks have always had a strong nucleus of players, but have never put all the pieces together to result in post season success.  This year, the puzzle took shape as we erased an enigma that has always followed the Rocks.  Our foundation is one in which I am confident will now be strong for years to come.  There were several teams in the state tournament that mentioned that it was about time we made it.  The Rocks are an organization that has built up a positive reputation and I am honored to represent this fantastic team.    

 

This year’s team was defined by depth and talent. A few key off-season pick-ups were monumental in solidifying the roster, and allowed us to put a solid lineup on the field even when all members were not available.  We belted our way through the Park National League, scoring a league leading 128 runs. Pitching and defense were also outstanding, with the pitching staff combining for an overall season ERA of 2.70. 

 

I hope that each one of you enjoyed this season.  On a personal note, it was a change for me as I transitioned from player to manager.  It was certainly a learning experience that I hope will challenge me to be better in the years ahead.  I didn’t always make the right or popular decision, but at the end of the day, I hope that I was fair and honest.  For me, the hardest part of managing was the relationship that I have with each one of you.  I truly consider each of you a close friend.  The Rocks are my extended family.  When decisions are made on the field, it has an impact - both positive and negative - on others perception toward me.  This is the aspect that is different than simply being a player.  I hope that I was able to represent the Rocks in a favorable light. 

 

Being able to play ball with your friends is an enviable trait. Running an organization is more cumbersome.  Most people are probably unaware of the logistics that go along with running an amateur baseball team.  The commitment is time consuming and extends outside of the foul lines and into the offseason.  I want to give a special thanks to Colin Sehnert for his commitment in helping me throughout this past year.  I’d also like to say a special thank you to my family, especially my wife for allowing me to take time away to play the game that I love.  This sentiment extends to the families of each of our players.  We owe much of our success to your support. 

 

Baseball will always hold a special place in my heart.  For me, baseball encapsulates the sights, sounds, smells, or that shining moment when one visits a ball park for the very first time.  They see that perfect emerald playing field, a diamond in the heart of a bustling city. Baseball is the joy of a heroic moment, or the agony of a heartbreaking defeat.  It also represents the special bonds we form with our children.  Baseball is hot dogs, and peanuts, and hopeful expectations.

 

The game of baseball will be forever in my mind linked to the mystic texture and treasures of my childhood and with a fascination and reverence to the heroes of the game itself – Sather and Shoberg included. Baseball is the wonderful aroma of fresh-cut grass and peaceful shadows draped across an empty Parade Stadium.

 

Baseball is loyal in its accessibility and in the peace and calm it brings. And when it is intense, it brings a welcome stress which replaces the stress of life. It stands the test of time and is a microcosm of life itself.   

Baseball is baseball.  It is why we play this game.  It is Rocks Baseball.