AYC Softball

When watching a softball game from a distance, it is easy to observe basic things that are happening. The crowd can see that a pitcher is preparing to throw a ball to an awaiting batter. They see various players scattered around the field. But they cannot see what the teammates see and experience.

Imagine you were a batter, marching to the home plate clutching a bat in your hand. The powdery infield dirt is kicked up, sending clouds of dust swirling around your feet. You raise the bat, and time seems to stand still. Your heart beats faster. Teammates cheer you on. The pitcher lets the ball loose, and you swing…

This is just a small part of my, and so many other campers’, softball experience at AYC.

On Sunday, July 18, campers woke up to a clear, sunny morning. After feeling rested and refreshed from the Sabbath, we were ready to tackle a day on the diamond. The intense heat was a small hindrance, but we still enjoyed ourselves. One girl camper summed it up by saying, “It was fun even though it was really hot.”

Before we began competing, campers and staff were separated into three drill stations. This was done in order to teach fledgling softball players the rules as well as provide them with helpful techniques. Experienced campers also benefited from the drills because they were necessary review, which helped to aid them in refreshing and refining previously learned skills.

Two of the three drills focused on catching the ball from various positions. At one station, ground balls were sent to the outfield and campers were expected to remain in front of the ball’s path to catch it and throw it back. The third station was the batting station. Here, the goal was not only to be able to hit the ball, but also to hit it with control. Campers practiced hitting the ball back to staff members. By the end of the drill, everyone left with a raised level of confidence.

After the lunch break, campers were divided into teams and prepared to begin playing a real game. The teams were separated into two girl teams and two boy teams. The boys were the first ones to play, followed by the girls. The game ended with one more round for the boys.

No matter who was playing, I noticed a common theme: teamwork. The communication occurring between teammates was inspiring to watch. Individuals were cheered on, applause was nearly constant, and players called out to each other, asking for help or directing where the ball should be thrown next. Without this communication, the games could never have run as smoothly as they did. The players would have been forced to rely on their own sense of what was happening, instead of hearing direction from their teammates.

An older camper commented that softball is “a good learning process.” Personally, I have to agree with this statement because it truly is a sport that requires learning to work as a team.

As much as I enjoyed playing, I actually enjoyed watching and cheering even more. It is hard to describe the uplifting feeling you experience when someone calls out your name and cheers you on. It is an empowering feeling, and it renews your strength and confidence. I know that if this encouragement has that effect on me, it definitely benefits others as well. It was always such a pleasure to see smiles spread across the faces of those being encouraged.

In addition, the experience of sitting with dear friends and raising our voices, listening to different accents combine into one strong cheer, is a memory I will not soon forget.

One thing I have always enjoyed about AYC is that it provides a unique environment for campers and staff alike. It promotes full participation from everyone. Because there is so much encouragement and teamwork, campers can dive in without having to worry about criticism from peers. This positive environment is rarely found in sports teams in the world.

I tried my best to give my all because this is my only opportunity to play softball each year. Honestly, coming to camp for the past four years has opened me up to the sport. I am not a naturally “sporty” person, so I probably would not have pursued playing softball on my own. AYC is the only reason I have been able to experience and enjoy softball, and I am so thankful for the opportunity.

After the games were finished, all campers were allowed to relax and watch the staff participate in a home run derby. All the participants did very well. One administrator hit a home run that actually sent the ball flying all the way to where the vans were parked!

At the end of the day, everyone returned to camp tired, but happy. I left pleased with the sense of unity that we all shared. Together, we stepped into the sport and excelled at it. During the process, friendships were strengthened, as everyone participated to the best of their ability. It was an unforgettable experience, and I am glad I could be a part of it.