Last tournament of the season

The coaches debated about even going to this tournament. After the thrashings we got in the last 2 tournaments, should we even go up against the competition at the SEAA Fall State Tournament? The girls had played 80 games since March, should we go to a tournament at all? In the end, because of logistics and because you have to play better teams to get better, we decided to go.

Good decision.

Knoxville Thunder Select 12U finished 3rd in a field of 8 teams. That statement by itself is commendable enough. But when you consider our girls are actually young enough to play 10U AND when you consider that many of the 8 teams (including 3 that we beat) are second year 12U teams, it becomes even more impressive. And then, if you were there, you know that they came within a hair's breadth of making it to the championship game, and the esteem you hold for these 11 year old girls has no bounds.

We are very lucky to have a great group of girls who are not only stellar ball players, but good sports and just genuinely nice kids. Additionally, the parents are dedicated and supportive of not only their own daughter, but of every girl on the team. I have commented many times on the fact that in nearly every case, BOTH parents are there to support the team. Even when the tournaments are out of town. In fact, except when a parent has to work, or if another child has another activity, we nearly always have the full contingent of parents and even grandparents there to cheer the girls on. And I cannot say often enough how glad I am that so many of Megan's teammates have little brothers in the 4-9 year old range. Nicholas enjoys going as much as the rest of us, because he's got his home boys to hang with! Spending all of this time on softball looks like a hardship to some people, but when you experience it, you see what a family affair it really is.

And I can't express my gratitude enough for the coaching staff that helps to steer the girls to the accomplishments that they have achieved. I may be a little biased, since David is one of the coaches, but I really think we have 4 of the best guys anyone could want. Each of them brings a little something different to the table, and they seem to work together very well to get the girls to work hard and take it to the next level. We were fortunate enough to be assigned to a team called the Fury back in tee ball, which is when we first met Mike, Rick and Brian. Megan has played for them since that time. I know that if we ever end up on another team, those coaches will suffer in comparison. I could go on and on, because it really does mean that much to me to have such great coaches piloting my daughter's team, but then I would be gushing, and really, what if they read this? It will go directly to their heads, and we won't be able to live with them any more. :) But seriously, thanks guys, for caring so much.

A special thanks to head coach Rick, and particularly his wife Libby who are so organized and keep us informed and on track. It really does help, when you have other obligations to know ahead of time when and where you need to be for softball. I know this is not always the case for competitive ball, so I want them to know we appreciate all they do to keep us in the loop.

Some highlights from the tournament:

Who says Coach Rick isn't any fun?













The parents taking up their usual positions.









Strategizing.









Girls just want to have fun.











Down to business.









The little brothers' club. I thought Nicholas was going to play Nintendo until his eyes bled. Sarah's mom Debbie assured me it took more than one day for the bleeding to commence!

















"Who are we?" "THUNDER!!"









2009 was a great year. Congratulations to Ostrich, Meatloaf, Flamingo, Cheetah, Penguin, Monkey, Hammer, Elmo, Squirrel and Clutch on all your hard work and excellent performance. Good luck in 2010!