What’s Really Important in Baseball and Life

This is a handout that Matt received at his first Division 1 practice. From an unattributed source, it is outstanding advice for any age.

ATTITUDE

• Have a can-do attitude
• Have a “how can I help” attitude
• Have a “we can win” attitude – think like a winner!
• NGU – Never Give Up!!
• When you’re down, you have to get back up
• When a teammate of your team is down, be an encourager
• Remember – A winning attitude is contagious, so is a losing attitude
• It’s your job to stay positive
• Have a short memory: When you make a mistake, forget it and go on. If your teammate makes a mistake, tell him to forget it. Encourage, encourage, encourage.

EFFORT

• Always hustle on and off the field
• Give your best at all times
• Always be ready – don’t space out
• Know what the current game situation is at all times

LEARNING

• Have a hunger to learn
• Always look the coaches in the eye
• Listen
• Change when you need to change – don’t be a “know it all”
• Look for any opportunity to learn

RESPECT

• Be a gentleman/lady
• Never argue with an umpire, respectfully let him know what your thoughts are
• No temper tantrums
• Show good sportsmanship
• Show respect to your teammates, your opponents and your coaches
• Be Honorable

RESPONSIBILITY

• Take control of your life, be responsible for everything that “happens” to you
• Organize your gear at home so you are ready to go
• Practice regularly. Don’t waste time
• Be Dependable
• Be Consistent
• Know that your team is counting on You
• Have Poise: Be cool, never let them see you sweat