Levi and the Issaquah All-Stars
I had the amazing privilege of watching my 11 year old cousin’s Little League all-star team compete in their regional tournament a couple weeks ago.
They lost the final game of their tournament, but it was easily the best game of baseball I’ve ever seen. Down 6-0 in the 3rd inning of a 6 inning game, they rallied to tie it in the bottom of the 6th.
My cousin Levi hit a leadoff homerun that sent the crowd into a frenzy. and in the bottom of the 7th, after the visitors scored a devastating 7 runs, Levi’s team fought back, scoring 5 runs and threatening to score with the tying run at first base. It didn’t end like it would in the movies, but it was an excellent game nonetheless.
The biggest difference I could see between little league and big league was the raw emotion these kids showed. Â When despair struck, you could actually see it. Shoulders would slump. Dirt was kicked. Scowls, winces, and rolling eyes marked the faces of the frustrated. And at the other end of the spectrum, you could see the joy and confidence that came with success. It wasn’t cockiness. It was joy.
Joy and despair. There was no middle ground. Every player had his heart squarely in the game. With each play the emotions would come out. This wasn’t just a baseball game. It was a full-on battle of emotions, and I’ve really appreciated observing and identifying with their ups and downs. This game really meant something to them. That’s what made it so electric. I think I’m hooked forever as a Little League fan.
