Just wanted to say a quick THANK YOU to these coaches this past weekend at Deep River: Scott Clemons, Danny Robinson, Tim Pruitt, Rod Gorham, and Carmine Pagano.

Our son Steven plays for the 12U team. On sunday after watching the last 3 innings of our 13u team play TPG. Our 12u team was to play in the finals. As our team was warming up my wife and I noticed Rod offering some advice to some of our pitchers warming up. We also noticed Carmine in the dugout talking to some of our kids as well. We felt this was awesome for them to be helping out after they had just won an intense game. They could have been sitting in the shade with their feet up relaxing but no they were right there for our younger guys.When my wife told Rod he could be relaxing and enjoying the big win they had just had he said "this is what we do, we want to help out".

This is exactly one of the reasons we as parents wanted our son to play for GBC. Top notch coaches and teachers of the game.

Whether he wins or loses our son is very proud to run out on that field with GBC across his chest.

Thanks again coaches your efforts are appreciated. 

Robbie and Ramona Oakley

 

 

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August 20, 2010

 

Coach,

 

I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation and adulation towards, you and your entire coaching staff.  The manner in which your staff conducted the rising 13U tryout for GBC last Saturday was exemplarily in every way, especially with 40 kids of various skill levels, all seeking to join an established roster, loaded with talent , while looking for 1 possibly 2 players.

 

However difficult the circumstances may have been, you guys made it look effortless, in fact, you managed to make it look enjoyable, while providing the kids an opportunity of a lifetime.  Offering an open tryout for a team playing at that level seems almost pointless, but your staff conducted themselves in a manner, which offered more than a chance to field a few groundballs and some BP, much more, you provided a life experience which they’ll learn and carry with them in the future.

 

Perhaps, your greatest achievement; managing to use one of the more difficult experiences of childhood, or life for that matter, trying out, being evaluated and scrutinized with the possibility of rejection, instead offering a look through baseball’s window of possibilities.   The sum of their experience will be much more than a tryout, showing them just how much than can achieve with hard work and dedication, while offering insight, inspiration and encouragement, regardless of talent level or experience, TRULY ADMIRABLE.

 

Alan and GBC are fortunate to be associated with your entire organization.

 

Initially I began writing this letter on Sunday, while many of the examples were vivid, but the timing seemed inappropriate under the circumstance, final roster pending.  Never the less, I still feel it necessary to express my appreciation both for the method and manner which your team conducted tryouts.

 

Although we only speak on occasion and perhaps solely because I call to inquire about your team, but I consider you a friend, you have always been extremely  patient and kind, so if and when asked; I have always spoken of you with equal manner.  Despite the possibility Paul’s chance too play for you may have passed, you’ve gained a family of fans, and a loyal friend.  Initially my wife was hesitant about the possibility of Paul playing for GBC, but after watching you guys coach and listening to you and reading the handout after tryouts; she wished Paul had played with you guys from the beginning.

 

I truly appreciate you giving Paul an honest look, hearing your encouragement, calling him by name, gave him the belief he had a fighter’s chance, unfortunately he didn’t have a good bullpen, but he remains optimistic.  I am very thankful for the opportunity and we look forward to speaking with you in the future.

Sincerely,

 

Kevin Coady