Last month I read an amazing piece in the New York Times by Jessica Shattuck, about of all things, playing catch, and how this simplest f acts connected her with her son in times when there was sometimes a void between them, She was not a helicopter parent or a sports fanatic, she didn’t know a lot abut the game, but the simplicity of throwing a ball was a touchstone for her. You can read the piece here. It reminded me of a few years ago on Sunday morning as I was going to get bagels I heard New York Archbishop Timothy Dolan on “Ed Randall’s Talking Baseball” show on WFAN in New York talking about how the simplest of actions with his father, playing catch after work, were some of his brightest memories. Often times in big time sports and promotions it is the simple ideas that get lost as not glitzy or glammery enough, but with the right platform, can be the most effective. Dolan’s thoughts that morning spurred one of those ideas.
A simple act connects fans of all ages in a communal and promotable activity that links young and old, boy and girl, dad and son, mom and daughter. Timeless, simple, easy. We always see football being passed around parking lots during tailgating, and this coming weekend MLB and its affiliated clubs, as well as Little League organizations and USA Baseball, will be hosting Play Ball Weekend as a way t get everyone moving into the summer. Click here for all the details.
The Times story served as a great reminder on how these little things we do helps to ease the anxiety, get kids active and less antsy, and provide a release for all as we work through these challenging times. We are always tested, but when we are we can look inward and see the brightness on the darkest days we can harken back to the easiest acts, and isn’t one of those just throwing a ball around with someone? Have hope, and find the time to still enjoy the little things that get lost in our very busy lives, and maybe take advantage of some events this weekend. It will bring you closer together in the easiest of ways. .
Controversy, Heroes And Villains, Media Dustups…the WNBA Has Great ‘Problems’ To Deal With, Bring Em On!!