In the winter time, my youngest son wanted to join youth wrestling. As thrilled as I was to hear this, his desire faded fast when I explained to him what youth wrestling consists of. You see, the four-year-old thought it was going to be like the wrestling he sees on television. He even asked if he could wear a luchador mask and have theme music and pyro. (Again; I was thrilled by this as well).

However, when the balloon was burst, he said “Okay, what else can I play?” I told him how his older brother played T-ball and how much fun he had. He took to it right away. We practiced and he ran with the sport.

Once the season started, he was in full force mode. He enjoyed learning from his coaches, spending time with his teammates and playing the game. (He was also very fond of the after-game snacks and gifts). His enthusiasm grew rapidly and he really loved batting but he said he loved playing in the outfield/infield the best. He said his favorite position is first base and “pitcher” – though there is no pitching in T-Ball; you just stand near the mound and field the position.

His growth and passion for the game; the wanting to practice, go to the games and willing to learn and improve really is rewarding. I am so very proud of him. When we are home, he continuously speaks about his games and his practice. He will ask “when do we play again?” or “do we practice today?”

His season maybe winding down but his thirst for the game appears to be far from over. I would like to thank my wife for taking him to practice and the games when I am working. The coaches, parents who volunteer, and Oakdale Baseball Softball Association (OBSA) for all their efforts and dedication.

Before we know it, baseball season will be back and he will play coach pitch. T-Ball went way too fast. In the meantime, he has also expressed interest in soccer and basketball as well.

Dennis D. Cruz is a staff reporter for The Oakdale Leader, The Riverbank News and The Escalon Times. He may be reached at drcruz@oakdaleleader.com or by calling 209-847-3021.