"Gather around, boys." Coach said as we started to come out of the dugout for practice. "I want to take a moment to talk before we start for today."
On the infield grass, we did a half circle around him and the other coaches stood just a bit behind him. He motioned for us to go down. Some simply took a knee, but I chose to sit. I had a feeling this wasn't going to be a short talk.
"First off, I didn't say enough after the game yesterday, but I'm proud of you all for pushing through the extra innings and adversity." He said. "There was never a moment where I thought you guys lost your passion and dedication. It was always onto the next pitch. The next play. I love that mindset."
"Why do I hear a 'but' coming?" Sean muttered under his breath.
Coach smiled. "Let me ask, by a show of hands, who was dissatisfied this past weekend despite winning the tournament?"