Atascadero Little Leaguers have character
June 11, 2014
OPINION By MIKE BRENNLER
Having two grandsons who play in the Atascadero Little League, it has been a busy season for my wife and I. A minimum of three games a week and an abundance of Gatorade and sun block.
I’m reminded of a quote attributed to the famous New York Yankee, Yogi Berra, who said, “Little League baseball is a very good thing because it keeps parents off the streets.”
I want to comment on a game played by the Reds and Rockies on May 28th at Paloma Park.
The game was won before the first batter stepped into the box and before the first pitch was thrown. It was won by both teams who experienced something that exemplifies good sportsmanship, respect and compassion.
Before the game started, we had learned that one of the Rockies best players was unable to suit up as he had suffered a serious heart condition which required hospitalization.
So moments before the game started, both teams, the players and the coaches, gathered in the infield, took a knee, and bowed their heads to show their respect and compassion for a fellow league player who was in distress.
I was able to capture that moment by photograph and in my mind it illustrates the tenets of the Little League, which strives to develop good citizenship, strong character and health.
To the young men who experienced that moment on the infield, I promise you that as you travel life’s road you will always remember that moment, just like you will remember the moments when you made a great play on the ball.
Congratulations to your season and to all the coaches and volunteers, thank you for leading and encouraging the young players of all teams.
Mike Brennler is a former San Luis Obispo police officer and mayor of Atascadero.
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