Do you play or do you compete?

A lot of kids across the world play baseball.  Not as many compete.  There is a huge difference between the two.

A kid who plays the game:

• Shows up when the coach tells him to.
• Practices well if a coach is watching.
• Is content with going base-to-base.
• Is ok with losing if he goes 3-4 at the plate or has 10 strikeouts on the mound.
• Would rather be a cheerleader during crunch time instead of having the ball or bat in their hand(s).
• Wait for the coach to call a practice.
• Takes no risks.  Only does what the coach tells him to do.
• Only likes to practice the things they do well.
• Complains about “the grind” of a baseball season.
• Views opponents as friends and peers during the game.

A kid who competes …

• Shows up at whatever time is necessary to prepare himself for the game.
• Is at 100% focus every second he is between the foul lines.
• Looks for opportunities to take additional bases.
• Is not ok with losing at any time.
• Wants the ball in their hand or be in the box with the game on the line.
• Practices whenever and wherever they get the chance.  Even if it’s by themselves.
• Understands that they will often see opportunities on the field that a coach cannot and takes action on their own.
• Practices what they need to work on.
• Relishes “the grind” of the baseball season.
• Views opponents as the enemy during games.

Do you play the game or do you compete?  Which one it is will go a long way in determining how far you go in the game.