My 7-year-old grandson participated for the first time this year in Albert Lea Parks and Recreation Department coach-pitch baseball as a member of the Sibley Cardinals.

I do not know the names of his coaches, but they were awesome! They took a group of disorganized, short-attention-span kids and actually taught them the fundamentals of the game. They knew each child by name and redirected their attention to the ball with calmness and respect. They worked together.

Each child got to bat and each child played all positions. Each child was encouraged and praised. In the end, the Sibley Cardinals were the champions.

So if you know these guys, shake their hands and say thank you, well done and please come back next year. Our children and grandchildren need role models like them in their lives.

 

Caryn Ringoen

Albert Lea