Fredericksburg Parent

www.FredericksburgParent.NET 11 One of the most poignant scenes in the history of cinema comes at the end of the baseball classic Field of Dreams. Kevin Costner's char- acter, Ray Kinsella, asks his ghostly father, "Dad, you wanna have a catch?" That simple question captures a universal truth: playing catch is more than a game—it's a connection. It transports us to a simpler time when tossing a ball back and forth could mend almost anything. This moment resonates deeply with parents, players, and fans alike. It doesn't matter whether the child grows up to play baseball or softball again. In those fleeting moments of shared focus, something eternal is forged—a bond that echoes across generations. So, when your child first expresses an interest in baseball or softball (or if you, the parent, "encourage" them to join because it's America's pastime and phones are banned at practices), my biggest advice is this: take them outside and play catch. PLAYING CATCH: BUILDING SKILLS AND BONDS It doesn't matter if you're terrible at throwing or catching a ball. They're likely terrible at it too—and that's part of the magic. For the first time, they might see you as fallible, a human instead of an infal- lible superhero. Baseball can be humbling that way. As a seasoned coach in recreational leagues, Little League, travel baseball, and now as an assistant coach at Chancellor High School, I've learned that baseball surprises even the most experienced players and coaches. The game constantly reminds us that we're all learning, and that's the beauty of it. PREPARING FOR THE FIRST SEASON Fredericksburg and the surrounding areas offer many programs for beginner baseball and softball players. Start by choosing a program that fits your schedule and budget. Remember, the only essential item to begin with is a glove. Here's a tip: don't buy an expensive glove for your child's first season. Choose one that fits their hands and allows them to easily open and close it. Spend time breaking in the glove before the first practice or tryout. Methods for breaking in gloves vary—some people swear by saddle soap, others use shaving cream, but I recommend avoiding extreme methods like microwaving or running over it with your car. Most importantly, spend time playing catch with the glove. This not only helps break it in but also builds your child's confidence. The Magic of Playing Catch and Starting Youth Baseball WRITTEN BY DREW GALLAGHER ...a Baseball Parent THE ROLE OF EQUIPMENT Beyond gloves, beginner players don't need much else. Many leagues provide bats for players to share, and cleats or uniforms are often supplied or optional. If you eventually buy your child a bat, make sure it meets league regulations— especially in Little League or high school, where bat restric- tions are common. For parents dreaming of major league glory, remember: it's not about the gear; it's about the effort, fun, and shared experiences. THE TRAVEL BALL DEBATE As kids progress, parents often wonder whether to join a travel team. Travel baseball and softball offer higher levels of competition, but they come with significant costs—thou- sands of dollars annually, plus travel expenses. If you're considering travel sports, know your "why." If it's for better coaching and competition, go for it. If it's for a col- lege scholarship, remember: full-ride scholarships are rare outside football and basketball. Your child's talent will shine regardless of the league they play in. Local travel programs include: • The Stars • Canes • Havoc • Richmond Braves • Spotsylvania Patriots • The Dirtbags • Prince William Cardinals FINAL THOUGHTS As the whispered promise from Field of Dreams goes, "If you build it, they will come." The same is true for youth baseball and softball. If your child has the talent and love for the game, opportunities will find them. But for now, go outside and play catch. It's where the magic begins. how to be

• Cover