The high school football season starts tomorrow for the fighting Wildcats. It's been delayed by two days because of a tropical storm. A Labor Day opener is pretty cool. There is nothing more exciting than a Friday night high school football game in South Louisiana -- or Monday.
I have always loved high school football, the excitement, the bands, the whole community buys in. Not everyone comes out, but there is interest. At the grocery they ask, at the gas station they ask everyone wants to know about the team. It is the same in baseball, but at a much smaller scale.
Our school and our program is respected around the state. We have scrambled the last few years, but that should have been expected. To have the athletes to win back-to-back state championships is special, but the underclassmen suffer a lack of playing time. A drop-off of athletes and experience is difficult to overcome. I know. We have dealt with it in the baseball program as well. The early indicators say this will be a much improved Wildcat team.
Well. tomorrow night they kick off at 6 p.m. Lori and I will be in the press box. Daniel will be too, calling plays and living his dream. My daughter-in-law, Cori, will be in the stands, and family will be in the stands. It couldn't get much better than this.
GO CATS!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Bragging Rights
As a Coach I always talk about team first, before individuals.
At our banquets I never bring up individual honors, only team rewards. This week our head football coach asked me to take out an ad in the football program. He said, "Put all your accomplishments on there."
Well I thought about it and, of course, I tried to make it a team accomplishment page. After all, I didn't win 240 games by myself. Not even close.
I relied on the coaching abilities of the following talented professionals who helped me: James Mills, Johnny Rome, Earl Incardona, Terry Joseph, Chris Mire, Donnie Diodene, Craig Perrier, Bill Calhoun, Kenny Montz, Troy Desentz, and Garrett McGovern.
How do you thank these men except to say, "You are Destrehan Baseball, and thanks for making it so dominant for 10 years."
I did make a program page and here it is . Enjoy it, it brought back great memories for me.
At our banquets I never bring up individual honors, only team rewards. This week our head football coach asked me to take out an ad in the football program. He said, "Put all your accomplishments on there."
Well I thought about it and, of course, I tried to make it a team accomplishment page. After all, I didn't win 240 games by myself. Not even close.
I relied on the coaching abilities of the following talented professionals who helped me: James Mills, Johnny Rome, Earl Incardona, Terry Joseph, Chris Mire, Donnie Diodene, Craig Perrier, Bill Calhoun, Kenny Montz, Troy Desentz, and Garrett McGovern.
How do you thank these men except to say, "You are Destrehan Baseball, and thanks for making it so dominant for 10 years."
I did make a program page and here it is . Enjoy it, it brought back great memories for me.
Destrehan Baseball
“The Winning Tradition continues, Ten Years of Excellence”
Record 240 – 101
State Runner-up (2003, 2005)
Six appearance in State Tournament
(2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009)
Four District Championships
(2002, 2004, 2009, 2010)
Nine 20+ win seasons
(2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010)
Players at the next level
(Professional Baseball 1, College Baseball 24)
Individual Awards and Accomplishments
Coach Luquet
5A State Coach of the Year
(2002, 2003, 2005)
Metro Coach of the Year
(2002, 2009)
District Coach of the Year
(2002, 2004, 2010)
Louisiana Player of the Year (Mr Baseball)
Beau Jones (2005)
All – State Players
2002 - Larry McVay and Daniel Vitrano
2003 - Ruston Rebowe, Andrew Lassere, Beau Jones, and Trey Simon
2004 - Trey Simon, Beau Jones, Andrew Lassere
2005 - Beau Jones and Tyrone Wethers
2006 - Trey Watkins
2007 - Renny Weber and Trey Watkins
2008 - Trey Watkins
2010 - Sam Carriere
2011 - Zach Schexnaydre
Saturday, July 30, 2011
When does Home become Home
When I first arrived at Destrehan High School (my fifth school and sixth job in 22 years), I noticed that some of the coaches were hometown boys. The principal was hard on these guys. They had lived here all of their life. With the exception of college, some have never experienced anywhere else. He knew he could do what ever he wanted to these coaches and they were tied to the community.
By their standards, I was a coaching nomad. No allegiances to anywhere. Growing up, my family lived in three time zones. I called California home. I came to New Orleans from Chicago, where I graduated from high school.
The most asked question in New Orleans is, "Where did you go to school?" And they mean, "What high school?" My answer is "James B. Conant High School in Illinois (note: he was a scientist who helped develop the atom bomb).
St. Charles Parish is a small town, and children stay in small towns. I hope so. My son is now a small town child and coaching at his high school. My high school. Destrehan has made us feel welcome. We are lucky.
As I finished my tenth year at Destrehan (my longest tenure), we finished in the playoffs for the tenth time. The program is feeding off its past, and the players are playing up to our reputation. We have young talent and will make deep runs into the playoffs in the next few years.
Building a successful program is fun. There is little expectation and the reward is high. But as you push the bar higher and higher, it becomes harder to maintain. Everyone expects the best and has become accustomed to the results. Even a season like 2011, (second place in district, an 18-15 record, and a regional loss to the eventual state champion) draws criticism.
Throughout Louisiana their are programs that are starved for a successful season. I know that because one them came calling in July.
After letting their coach go, East Ascension High School came looking for me. Their search committee was headed up by some hard core baseball men, and they were looking for the best.
They didn't start their search with me, but it didn't take them long to call. East Ascension is a program with a distinguished history, state championships and professional players. They have a quality stadium and great community support. Their teams have been competitive the last few years, but never played as a team.
Their offer was nice, with a comparable salary and coaching stipend. Extra funds were available, and involving the community was definitely a must.
New Athletic Director and Football Coach Paul Bourgeois sat with me and we hit it off immediately. Everything was in place to move. They were so excited to get a coach of my pedigree. All that they were waiting for was me to say yes. Just say yes and a new adventure will begin.
I talked about it with my wife, my children. Everyone was supportive and made sure the decision was mine.
Well almost everyone. Not my littlest one (she is 10 years old). All she wanted to know is why I would leave Destrehan. "Dad," she said. "You will need all new clothes."
And, she said, "It's not home".
HOME. I never had a home. I am the nomad.
This is the first time I ever coached and became a part of the community. I love Destrehan High School, and the people and the players and the past players and their families. Wow, why would I leave?
The last few years have been tough. Support and expectations sometimes get in each other's way. When the news leaked out, support from my past players and families poured in.
As one of them said, "You are my coach and that is my school, and you can't go somewhere else. If you do, that won't be my baseball team."
Support from the administration followed, and I knew I couldn't leave. Will the expectations change? No. They will always be high and off the chart. All I know is that only one team can win the state championship, and many programs believe it will be them.
There is a General Douglas MacArthur quote above the tunnel leading to the field at Yankee Stadium that says, "There is no substitute for Victory."
Well, we are not playing for the freedom of the world. We are playing for fun, and each other. I just want to teach young men how to love baseball and hopefully give them life lessons. When the are successful citizens, I will know I succeeded.
By their standards, I was a coaching nomad. No allegiances to anywhere. Growing up, my family lived in three time zones. I called California home. I came to New Orleans from Chicago, where I graduated from high school.
The most asked question in New Orleans is, "Where did you go to school?" And they mean, "What high school?" My answer is "James B. Conant High School in Illinois (note: he was a scientist who helped develop the atom bomb).
St. Charles Parish is a small town, and children stay in small towns. I hope so. My son is now a small town child and coaching at his high school. My high school. Destrehan has made us feel welcome. We are lucky.
As I finished my tenth year at Destrehan (my longest tenure), we finished in the playoffs for the tenth time. The program is feeding off its past, and the players are playing up to our reputation. We have young talent and will make deep runs into the playoffs in the next few years.
Building a successful program is fun. There is little expectation and the reward is high. But as you push the bar higher and higher, it becomes harder to maintain. Everyone expects the best and has become accustomed to the results. Even a season like 2011, (second place in district, an 18-15 record, and a regional loss to the eventual state champion) draws criticism.
Throughout Louisiana their are programs that are starved for a successful season. I know that because one them came calling in July.
After letting their coach go, East Ascension High School came looking for me. Their search committee was headed up by some hard core baseball men, and they were looking for the best.
They didn't start their search with me, but it didn't take them long to call. East Ascension is a program with a distinguished history, state championships and professional players. They have a quality stadium and great community support. Their teams have been competitive the last few years, but never played as a team.
Their offer was nice, with a comparable salary and coaching stipend. Extra funds were available, and involving the community was definitely a must.
New Athletic Director and Football Coach Paul Bourgeois sat with me and we hit it off immediately. Everything was in place to move. They were so excited to get a coach of my pedigree. All that they were waiting for was me to say yes. Just say yes and a new adventure will begin.
I talked about it with my wife, my children. Everyone was supportive and made sure the decision was mine.
Well almost everyone. Not my littlest one (she is 10 years old). All she wanted to know is why I would leave Destrehan. "Dad," she said. "You will need all new clothes."
And, she said, "It's not home".
HOME. I never had a home. I am the nomad.
This is the first time I ever coached and became a part of the community. I love Destrehan High School, and the people and the players and the past players and their families. Wow, why would I leave?
The last few years have been tough. Support and expectations sometimes get in each other's way. When the news leaked out, support from my past players and families poured in.
As one of them said, "You are my coach and that is my school, and you can't go somewhere else. If you do, that won't be my baseball team."
Support from the administration followed, and I knew I couldn't leave. Will the expectations change? No. They will always be high and off the chart. All I know is that only one team can win the state championship, and many programs believe it will be them.
There is a General Douglas MacArthur quote above the tunnel leading to the field at Yankee Stadium that says, "There is no substitute for Victory."
Well, we are not playing for the freedom of the world. We are playing for fun, and each other. I just want to teach young men how to love baseball and hopefully give them life lessons. When the are successful citizens, I will know I succeeded.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Goodbye Frito
I dropped by school today and Coach Madere showed me something that made me sad.
It was a drop form for one of my guys. It was Frito’s.
I knew he was going home, to Norway. But this made it real. I loved Frito for many reasons. Here are a few: He showed up for our first meeting like every other player, eyes wide open and hanging on to every word. He listened intently and followed all my directions to the T. Soon he was in the weight room practicing. He couldn’t have weighed 120 pounds and wasn’t very strong, but he didn’t look out of place. He was cute and worked hard, but his accent gave him away. He didn’t have that South Louisiana Cajun twang or the north Louisiana drawl. His was European, different and obviously nothing like what we have in the south.
“Son, where are you from, and what is your name?” I asked him.
“Fridtjof Medhus” he replied. “I am from Norway.” No one could pronounce that – much less spell it – so we called him Frito.
He was so nice the other players loved and accepted him immediately. They took him in, took him to football games, parties and made him feel so comfortable. His stepdad was on assignment in the United States, working at one of the petroleum plants here in the parish. They were going to be here for two years. Since he was a sophomore, he would not graduate from Destrehan. But it didn’t matter. He was one of the boys and enjoying it.
We were doing a public service project for the Norco Christmas parade, when I first talked baseball with him. I asked him how much baseball they play in Norway, and he said ‘very little.’
When I asked him what position he played, he look perplexed and responded with, “I don’t know. I don’t even know the names of the positions.”
“Oh I see,” I said. “Well wait until we hit the field.”
The first day on the field I gave my assistants a heads up, and they took it from there. Frito had little experience with a ball. Some of the players took him out and showed him how to throw, but fielding balls was an adventure.
He started at second base. The infielders quickly sent him to work with the outfielders. But fly balls were no easier than grounders, and a lot more dangerous. The first fly ball went between his glove and his nose. The second hit him in the leg.
When I called him over and asked “Is this harder than you thought?” He nodded his head, eyes down. He knew this wasn’t going to work out.
So I came up with another plan.
“Frito we need a manager,” I said. “You will work for the coaches. I will spend time with you teaching you the game. How does that sound?”
A smile came to his face. He was a part of the family. He was a Wildcat.
And he was a hit. The players loved him. He was the hardest worker, and the players respected him. As an example of that, we had a specialty hat - a tri-color hat - and the captains decide who gets them. The hardest workers get them first. When I asked the players who should get the one, they chose Frito.
I asked them if they were sure they wanted to give the manager, the first hat, and they said, “Yes. Yes he deserves it.”
Wow, that’s pretty special.
Frito’s work habits were wonderful, and he learned baseball along the way. He also learned and observed human nature. He could not understand why all of the players didn’t work hard every day. The game looked so fun, yet players didn’t work or hustle. And he would tell them things in a way that only he could, wondering why God gave them such talent and they didn’t work to improve it. They couldn’t argue with him because he was no threat to them. And some did work harder.
He had trouble understanding why some players were selfish and not team players. He understood roles, but not egos. He once told a player to help carry the water on a road trip to the bus. The player responded, “I am a starter, I don’t carry water.”
Frito went berserk. He just couldn’t understand why someone wouldn’t just help out because we needed it. What a great theory! I bet he never would have complained when he had to sacrifice bunt or hit behind a runner to help the team. I loved his pure innocence, the quality he brought to this team.
I did get that player to help with the water, despite being a starter (we don’t have any rule like that), and told Frito he would be the one to decide when that player didn’t have to carry water anymore. In pure Frito fashion, that guy is still carrying the water and doesn’t complain. I think I will let him pick the next water guy.
When the season ended, I knew Frito was going home to Norway. So, I made sure he got his letter jacket a year early so he would have one. I am not sure if I will ever find the qualities of Frito again, but I would love to put some of his qualities and vision into my
players. He never got a big hit or pitched a great game, but he brought so much to our team and to me.
Yes, I will miss him. I should thank him for showing me this game through virgin eyes. I forgot to enjoy it, and how much I love it. I sometimes wonder who taught who more. We introduced him to sports and to baseball, but he showed us so much more.
Goodbye Frito, you are a good friend.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Crank up the washing machine
The batting cages came down last week. The windscreens too.
The dugouts were cleaned and all the water coolers are stored for the winter. On Saturday it was rewashing the uniforms and hanging them up in storage.
All by myself, I cleaned and straightened and reflected on the season. Coaches always reevaluate the season. What did we do wrong? What could I have done different, or better?
Do CPAs spend time reevaluating their seasons?
Do plumbers say, "Could have been better or more efficient on that last job?"
Do all professionals reflect on their jobs, or is this just a trait of coaches? This is not unique to baseball coaches. I believe all good coaches do this. I just don't know if they do it by themselves on a summer Saturday afternoon during the spin cycle.
Oops. Gotta run the dryer just went off!
The dugouts were cleaned and all the water coolers are stored for the winter. On Saturday it was rewashing the uniforms and hanging them up in storage.
All by myself, I cleaned and straightened and reflected on the season. Coaches always reevaluate the season. What did we do wrong? What could I have done different, or better?
Do CPAs spend time reevaluating their seasons?
Do plumbers say, "Could have been better or more efficient on that last job?"
Do all professionals reflect on their jobs, or is this just a trait of coaches? This is not unique to baseball coaches. I believe all good coaches do this. I just don't know if they do it by themselves on a summer Saturday afternoon during the spin cycle.
Oops. Gotta run the dryer just went off!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Coach can I play now?
The prep season was interesting as the season ended with a two game playoff run. We lost to Jesuit and they continued on to win the 5A State Championship, a great accomplishment. We were six outs from knocking them off in the regional , leading 7-4, in the sixth.
Why am I not happy? We were not supposed to be good, said my biggest critic. "You will be lucky to win ten games this year" said my own principal. We were 18-15 and into the playoffs, finishing 2nd in district.
Well, the summer will be more fun right? Well, it never is.
"It's too hot. It's too humid. You can't expect the kids to play in this weather," say some parents.
I use the summer to evaluate next year's team. A few seniors stay but never play well. The graduating seniors must have offers to play college baseball in order to play for us in the summer.
This year I had found a place for them to prepare for their college careers, playing with and against college talent. A chance to play 50 games, for free. Traveling to play in 5 states and participate in 8 tournaments. Their answer was "No thanks, we just want to play with you."
Maybe I should feel honored. Fifteen more games with us. Well now I am worried about their commitment to their careers. I wish them well, I do. I hope they're not home too soon.
We played the summer Legion program. Sometimes we were good. We were very young at times with three freshman and three sophomores on the field together. Most of the time we were OK. We hit and didn't pitch, or pitched and didn't hit. Some players started out hot and cooled, and some brought up low averages with late season streaks.
Overall we played better down the stretch and there are many positives going into next year. Some players made their stock rise and some fell off the radar. We had some players come out of nowhere, and some take their place.
Well everyone has about six months to grow and get stronger. Some will and some will disappear. The competition starts now in the weight room, only some players don't know it.
When January arrives and we hit the field, everyone's hopes will be high. The memory of the 2011 prep and summer season will have faded or been erased in everyone's mind but mine. It's my job. And as I reward those who worked harder and got stronger and better, the others will just transfer the blame to me. I guess I should have coached them better. After all they were Triple A travel ball stars.
This gets harder each year. Just ask the high school coaches in Louisiana. I have.
Why am I not happy? We were not supposed to be good, said my biggest critic. "You will be lucky to win ten games this year" said my own principal. We were 18-15 and into the playoffs, finishing 2nd in district.
Well, the summer will be more fun right? Well, it never is.
"It's too hot. It's too humid. You can't expect the kids to play in this weather," say some parents.
I use the summer to evaluate next year's team. A few seniors stay but never play well. The graduating seniors must have offers to play college baseball in order to play for us in the summer.
This year I had found a place for them to prepare for their college careers, playing with and against college talent. A chance to play 50 games, for free. Traveling to play in 5 states and participate in 8 tournaments. Their answer was "No thanks, we just want to play with you."
Maybe I should feel honored. Fifteen more games with us. Well now I am worried about their commitment to their careers. I wish them well, I do. I hope they're not home too soon.
We played the summer Legion program. Sometimes we were good. We were very young at times with three freshman and three sophomores on the field together. Most of the time we were OK. We hit and didn't pitch, or pitched and didn't hit. Some players started out hot and cooled, and some brought up low averages with late season streaks.
Overall we played better down the stretch and there are many positives going into next year. Some players made their stock rise and some fell off the radar. We had some players come out of nowhere, and some take their place.
Well everyone has about six months to grow and get stronger. Some will and some will disappear. The competition starts now in the weight room, only some players don't know it.
When January arrives and we hit the field, everyone's hopes will be high. The memory of the 2011 prep and summer season will have faded or been erased in everyone's mind but mine. It's my job. And as I reward those who worked harder and got stronger and better, the others will just transfer the blame to me. I guess I should have coached them better. After all they were Triple A travel ball stars.
This gets harder each year. Just ask the high school coaches in Louisiana. I have.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
It's always Jesuit
It's playoff time. You can tell because we have to play the Jesuit Blue Jays.
Again.
We won our first playoff game against Archbishop Shaw 5-2. I have coached at Destrehan for ten years. We have made six trips to the state tournament and played in two championship games.
In nine seasons we have played the Jays four times, losing three of them. And all of those were in the state championship tournament. One of them was the state championship game in 2005.
There is a ray of hope, however, because we beat them in 2009, at home, in this regional round. I messaged one of my former players and asked him what we wore that day. He remembered it "like it was yesterday."
Pinstripes (in honor of Jesuit), black jerseys and red hats. I believe in Karma. Lots and lots of Karma.
Wish us luck. Lots and lots of luck!
Sunday, March 27, 2011
WOW what a ride
I have now have had a few people question why I would want to write this blog. Mainly, I love having a place to express my feelings and thoughts on the game. Maybe my wife doesn't need to make it so public, but if you know me you will check in once in a while.
This week we began district play. We opened 2-1 with a loss to Dutchtown and wins against Hahnville and East St John. Like most high school games we could have won the Dutchtown game. But I guess we could have lost the other games too!
We beat our big rival Hahnville this week 9-5. It is the 10th straight win for the Wildcats over the Tigers. I guess I should "knock on wood," but I know this streak will not last forever. In baseball no one dominates for long, and the best team doesn't always win. But it's been fun!
The biggest news of the week happened off the field, when a former player of ours sat down at his computer like I am now. Kurt McCune, a former Wildcat and current LSU pitching star, sat down to write about a friend of his who had greatly affected his life. WOW, what a story. And he showed great character.
I had my players read it before the Hahnville game on Thursday, and they were touched. Kurt wrote about his friend and teammate who was seriously injured in a head on collision and may never play baseball again. Kurt talked about his change of perception about what is really important. Life, health and happiness trumps baseball, even when you are exceeding your dream. He talked about how lucky he felt to be able to play this game. Then the very next day he went out and pitched his very first complete game.
Kurt is pitching better than anyone expected, perhaps the biggest surprise in LSU's young season. He is their early season MVP, and he keeps it all in order by remembering his struggling friend. It's a nice story from a fine young man. I am proud to say he is a "Wildcat".
This week gets no easier for us. We finish the first round of district play this week and start a two game set with Dutchtown. If I am correct we will be playing those two games for the district lead and they will be setting themselves up for the title. But it is a long season and lots of things can happen. Check in once in a while and I'll try to keep you updated.
This week we began district play. We opened 2-1 with a loss to Dutchtown and wins against Hahnville and East St John. Like most high school games we could have won the Dutchtown game. But I guess we could have lost the other games too!
We beat our big rival Hahnville this week 9-5. It is the 10th straight win for the Wildcats over the Tigers. I guess I should "knock on wood," but I know this streak will not last forever. In baseball no one dominates for long, and the best team doesn't always win. But it's been fun!
The biggest news of the week happened off the field, when a former player of ours sat down at his computer like I am now. Kurt McCune, a former Wildcat and current LSU pitching star, sat down to write about a friend of his who had greatly affected his life. WOW, what a story. And he showed great character.
I had my players read it before the Hahnville game on Thursday, and they were touched. Kurt wrote about his friend and teammate who was seriously injured in a head on collision and may never play baseball again. Kurt talked about his change of perception about what is really important. Life, health and happiness trumps baseball, even when you are exceeding your dream. He talked about how lucky he felt to be able to play this game. Then the very next day he went out and pitched his very first complete game.
Kurt is pitching better than anyone expected, perhaps the biggest surprise in LSU's young season. He is their early season MVP, and he keeps it all in order by remembering his struggling friend. It's a nice story from a fine young man. I am proud to say he is a "Wildcat".
This week gets no easier for us. We finish the first round of district play this week and start a two game set with Dutchtown. If I am correct we will be playing those two games for the district lead and they will be setting themselves up for the title. But it is a long season and lots of things can happen. Check in once in a while and I'll try to keep you updated.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Gotta love Monroe!
Each year I take my troops (the Destrehan baseball team), to Monroe, LA, for the Bayou State Classic in and around Monroe. The classic hosts 70 of the top teams from around the state, and draws college coaches from around the region.
That would be a good reason to go, but that is not my reason.
I believe that this trip bonds the team. Three days in tight quarters with few distractions. They have to travel, eat and sleep as a team. They find out a lot about each other (not all of it good), and learn to deal with each other.
Sometimes they find friends and many times they discover that their teammate is not someone they would otherwise hang out with. As for me, both of these senerios need to be discovered. It makes a team what it is.
This year was tougher than most. We started 0-2 after two days. We left for the tournament feeling pretty good about ourselves, being 4-1, and coming off an impressive 3-0 victory over a talented Central of Baton Rouge.
But the good feelings didn't last long, as our Achilles Heel reappeared and our defense disappeared. We have shown the ability to make errors in bunches, and did so in two tough losses, 13-0 to Airline, and 12-5 to Captain Shreve.
The ugly underbelly always shows when things get like this and selfish players get called out by their teammates. This trip was no exception. The seniors began their attack on cocky underclassmen.
This not a bad thing and the offending party cannot just grab their bag and go home. This is where the "becoming a team starts," and everyone ends up involved.
The rains came on Saturday and we spent the day on our chartered bus. Up at 6:00 a.m. to get checked out of the hotel and drive to West Ouachita. We arrived early to find a tarp on the field, and a bad weather report. The weather report was correct, and before the 1st pitch the rain came.
Back to the bus we ran to wait out the rain delay, then came the 1st cancellation. The second game was at 2:30 in Ruston, so we were off on our 45 minute ride. It is now close to 12:30, so we stop to eat at Burger King. Before we could eat our burgers the call came that the 2nd game was canceled. Back to West Ouachita for a 5:00 game. We get back on the bus headed to W.O. to hit under their covered hitting facility. But the call came at 2:00pm. No way the field will be ready. Would you like to try for 7:00 p.m?
Thanks but no thanks. It's time to head for home.
The next 5 hour ride went off without incident, and the Wildcats were home for 7:00 p.m.
Before I sent them on their way, I had a quick meeting with the players in the locker room about character, hard work, and making baseball first. They left for mom, girl friends and who knows what on this Mardi Gras weekend.
I hope this trip was a success and the next few weeks will give us the answer.
Go Cats go, just not on a bus.
That would be a good reason to go, but that is not my reason.
I believe that this trip bonds the team. Three days in tight quarters with few distractions. They have to travel, eat and sleep as a team. They find out a lot about each other (not all of it good), and learn to deal with each other.
Sometimes they find friends and many times they discover that their teammate is not someone they would otherwise hang out with. As for me, both of these senerios need to be discovered. It makes a team what it is.
This year was tougher than most. We started 0-2 after two days. We left for the tournament feeling pretty good about ourselves, being 4-1, and coming off an impressive 3-0 victory over a talented Central of Baton Rouge.
But the good feelings didn't last long, as our Achilles Heel reappeared and our defense disappeared. We have shown the ability to make errors in bunches, and did so in two tough losses, 13-0 to Airline, and 12-5 to Captain Shreve.
The ugly underbelly always shows when things get like this and selfish players get called out by their teammates. This trip was no exception. The seniors began their attack on cocky underclassmen.
This not a bad thing and the offending party cannot just grab their bag and go home. This is where the "becoming a team starts," and everyone ends up involved.
The rains came on Saturday and we spent the day on our chartered bus. Up at 6:00 a.m. to get checked out of the hotel and drive to West Ouachita. We arrived early to find a tarp on the field, and a bad weather report. The weather report was correct, and before the 1st pitch the rain came.
Back to the bus we ran to wait out the rain delay, then came the 1st cancellation. The second game was at 2:30 in Ruston, so we were off on our 45 minute ride. It is now close to 12:30, so we stop to eat at Burger King. Before we could eat our burgers the call came that the 2nd game was canceled. Back to West Ouachita for a 5:00 game. We get back on the bus headed to W.O. to hit under their covered hitting facility. But the call came at 2:00pm. No way the field will be ready. Would you like to try for 7:00 p.m?
Thanks but no thanks. It's time to head for home.
The next 5 hour ride went off without incident, and the Wildcats were home for 7:00 p.m.
Before I sent them on their way, I had a quick meeting with the players in the locker room about character, hard work, and making baseball first. They left for mom, girl friends and who knows what on this Mardi Gras weekend.
I hope this trip was a success and the next few weeks will give us the answer.
Go Cats go, just not on a bus.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Just pick it up and throw it!
The 2011 baseball season is one week old, and I have learned a few things.
The old adage in baseball is that pitching and defense win games. Well not all of them.
If you are confused, so am I. We have won 3 of our 4 games so far and we can't play catch. Just pick up a ground ball and throw it accurately across the diamond. Sounds easy.
But in our first 4 games, my team has made 24 errors.
24 ERRORS.
That is a whole season's worth in 2003 and 2005. This could be the toughest season ever for our pitching staff. They will have to get extra outs and make quality pitches with plenty of base runners.
In the first 4 games the pitchers have been outstanding, pulling us out of many jams. Our hitting has allowed us to win games.
But come on guys. 24 ERRORS?
All your life you play ball, some kind of ball. Someone throws it to you and you catch it. Then you throw it back to them. Pretty simple stuff. Unless you are a infielder this year.
We are young and will get better. Soon I hope. We play some of the best teams in Louisiana soon, and we better get our act together. We cannot expect to score 10 runs a game, and need them all to win. But we are 3-1 and on a 3 game win streak. Enough said.
I always go watch games and my favorite saying is: "I go to the park to see things I've never seen before." This year I am seeing that at my own games.
The old adage in baseball is that pitching and defense win games. Well not all of them.
If you are confused, so am I. We have won 3 of our 4 games so far and we can't play catch. Just pick up a ground ball and throw it accurately across the diamond. Sounds easy.
But in our first 4 games, my team has made 24 errors.
24 ERRORS.
That is a whole season's worth in 2003 and 2005. This could be the toughest season ever for our pitching staff. They will have to get extra outs and make quality pitches with plenty of base runners.
In the first 4 games the pitchers have been outstanding, pulling us out of many jams. Our hitting has allowed us to win games.
But come on guys. 24 ERRORS?
All your life you play ball, some kind of ball. Someone throws it to you and you catch it. Then you throw it back to them. Pretty simple stuff. Unless you are a infielder this year.
We are young and will get better. Soon I hope. We play some of the best teams in Louisiana soon, and we better get our act together. We cannot expect to score 10 runs a game, and need them all to win. But we are 3-1 and on a 3 game win streak. Enough said.
I always go watch games and my favorite saying is: "I go to the park to see things I've never seen before." This year I am seeing that at my own games.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
A special L.S.U. Sunday
Sunday February 20, 2011
I will always think of this day and smile. I sat in the stands at Alex Box Stadium with my son Daniel and watched with pride as Trey Watkins and Kurt McCune, both former Destrehan Wildcats, led the LSU Tigers to victory. Trey, a grizzled veteran outfielder of one year and Kurt, a freshman who was pitching for the first time.
I saw Mary Kenney, Trey's mom, who has been attending these games for a year now. She knows where to sit, when to get there, and who belongs to who.
But the McCunes were enjoying their first weekend as LSU parents -- until today and the realization that their youngest child was about to take the mound for the team he has dreamed of playing for his whole life. WOW, what a moment!
And they were scared to death. Nervous was a understatement. Kevin was pacing and said Monica was more nervous than him. I saw Kurt's brother Matt (also one of my former players) and sister Sami (who taught Lora how to swim). They were excited and so proud of their brother. His moment was an hour away.
I walked down toward the dugout and to see if they were milling about, but they were nowhere around. Then Coach Paul Mainieri popped out of the dugout and saw me. He called me over and said this a great day for Destrehan baseball. He had no idea.
After we talked briefly, Kurt appeared in the bullpen. Daniel and I moved over by the bullpen to watch him warm-up. He looked good, tall and thin. As he was warming up his arm was loose, and the ball was live. He was enjoying the moment, and so was I.
Pitching coach Dave Grewe saw us and came over with a big smile on his face. Like Mainieri he was very confident that Kurt was ready. As Kurt finished up his preparation he walked over and greeted us. He wasn't nervous at all. I asked him how he felt. Kurt was fine, he told me. "I pitched to our team and got them out, and we are alot better than them (Wake Forest)."
He was in a good place. He was better than Mom and Dad. I just reminded him to have fun and enjoy the experience.
The game started well, as Kurt struck out the 1st batter. We all were so concerned that he wouldn't get off to a good start. But after he struck out the next two batters, we were sure that today would be special.
Trey, who normally plays left field, was the DH today. He batted leadoff and promptly lined out to shortstop. He has gotten off to a very unlucky start, hitting the ball hard but going hitless. This line out has him 0-for- 8 for the season.
Kurt went out and retired the side in the second and third, striking out 2 more. LSU started a rally in the 3rd, and with one out, Trey lined his first single of the season into center to bring in the Tigers' first run of the day. Before the inning was over the Tigers led 5-0, and the story was now Kurt McCune.
A freshman in his first start and throwing a no-hitter through 3 innings was becoming a story. Kurt didn't disappoint any of the 8,000 fans in attendance -- nor those in section 203. By now I had informed them about Kurt and Trey, my former players, and how proud I am right now. The sixth produced some drama as Kurt brought his no-hitter into the frame. With an 80-pitch count they probably wouldn't let him finish the no-hitter anyway. And it was broken up in the 6th with a seeing-eye grounder between 3rd and short.
Wake Forest went on to load the bases with a hit batter and a walk. Kurt recovered to strike out his 7th batter for the second out and a fly to center ended the threat. And he was done for the day.
The line on Kurt: 6 innings pitched, no runs, 1 hit, 7 strikeouts, 2 BBs, and 1 hit batter. Oh,
and his first college win.
The line on Trey: 2 for 4, 2 runs scored, and 1 RBI.
And what day for an old grey haired coach watching the game with his 27 year old son.
I had a chance to talk to them after they made it through the line of fans by their locker room. They were very happy. Kurt hugged me 3 times. He was bursting with joy, I could tell, but he played it down so well.
Trey was not hiding his emotion. He was so excited for Kurt. He knew what it's like to play his 1st game. In fact, he was the player of the game in his first game, with a great catch to save the win. This day was special and they knew it. So did I.
The game was special, besides the LSU win. The boys I had coached played well and I got a chance to share it with my son, who also played for me. I saw the East Ascension coach with his young son, out for a day at the park. It's a very special day, whether your son is 10 or 27.
Thanks Daniel for bringing me to the game (you too Cori). This day was truly special.
I will always think of this day and smile. I sat in the stands at Alex Box Stadium with my son Daniel and watched with pride as Trey Watkins and Kurt McCune, both former Destrehan Wildcats, led the LSU Tigers to victory. Trey, a grizzled veteran outfielder of one year and Kurt, a freshman who was pitching for the first time.
I saw Mary Kenney, Trey's mom, who has been attending these games for a year now. She knows where to sit, when to get there, and who belongs to who.
But the McCunes were enjoying their first weekend as LSU parents -- until today and the realization that their youngest child was about to take the mound for the team he has dreamed of playing for his whole life. WOW, what a moment!
And they were scared to death. Nervous was a understatement. Kevin was pacing and said Monica was more nervous than him. I saw Kurt's brother Matt (also one of my former players) and sister Sami (who taught Lora how to swim). They were excited and so proud of their brother. His moment was an hour away.
I walked down toward the dugout and to see if they were milling about, but they were nowhere around. Then Coach Paul Mainieri popped out of the dugout and saw me. He called me over and said this a great day for Destrehan baseball. He had no idea.
After we talked briefly, Kurt appeared in the bullpen. Daniel and I moved over by the bullpen to watch him warm-up. He looked good, tall and thin. As he was warming up his arm was loose, and the ball was live. He was enjoying the moment, and so was I.
Pitching coach Dave Grewe saw us and came over with a big smile on his face. Like Mainieri he was very confident that Kurt was ready. As Kurt finished up his preparation he walked over and greeted us. He wasn't nervous at all. I asked him how he felt. Kurt was fine, he told me. "I pitched to our team and got them out, and we are alot better than them (Wake Forest)."
He was in a good place. He was better than Mom and Dad. I just reminded him to have fun and enjoy the experience.
The game started well, as Kurt struck out the 1st batter. We all were so concerned that he wouldn't get off to a good start. But after he struck out the next two batters, we were sure that today would be special.
Trey, who normally plays left field, was the DH today. He batted leadoff and promptly lined out to shortstop. He has gotten off to a very unlucky start, hitting the ball hard but going hitless. This line out has him 0-for- 8 for the season.
Kurt went out and retired the side in the second and third, striking out 2 more. LSU started a rally in the 3rd, and with one out, Trey lined his first single of the season into center to bring in the Tigers' first run of the day. Before the inning was over the Tigers led 5-0, and the story was now Kurt McCune.
A freshman in his first start and throwing a no-hitter through 3 innings was becoming a story. Kurt didn't disappoint any of the 8,000 fans in attendance -- nor those in section 203. By now I had informed them about Kurt and Trey, my former players, and how proud I am right now. The sixth produced some drama as Kurt brought his no-hitter into the frame. With an 80-pitch count they probably wouldn't let him finish the no-hitter anyway. And it was broken up in the 6th with a seeing-eye grounder between 3rd and short.
Wake Forest went on to load the bases with a hit batter and a walk. Kurt recovered to strike out his 7th batter for the second out and a fly to center ended the threat. And he was done for the day.
The line on Kurt: 6 innings pitched, no runs, 1 hit, 7 strikeouts, 2 BBs, and 1 hit batter. Oh,
and his first college win.
The line on Trey: 2 for 4, 2 runs scored, and 1 RBI.
And what day for an old grey haired coach watching the game with his 27 year old son.
I had a chance to talk to them after they made it through the line of fans by their locker room. They were very happy. Kurt hugged me 3 times. He was bursting with joy, I could tell, but he played it down so well.
Trey was not hiding his emotion. He was so excited for Kurt. He knew what it's like to play his 1st game. In fact, he was the player of the game in his first game, with a great catch to save the win. This day was special and they knew it. So did I.
The game was special, besides the LSU win. The boys I had coached played well and I got a chance to share it with my son, who also played for me. I saw the East Ascension coach with his young son, out for a day at the park. It's a very special day, whether your son is 10 or 27.
Thanks Daniel for bringing me to the game (you too Cori). This day was truly special.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
2 scrimmages down
After two scrimmages and 24 innings, I have lots of answers. No not really! The pitching is solid but the position players are all open. We haven't begun to hit the ball well, yet.
But it will come. At Destrehan it always does.
This week is the jamboree, Brother Martin and DeLaSalle a dress rehearsal. Six innings is not enough, but that's the system. The season begins on Thursday, in Walker. Let the fun begin!
After 15 games we will have a handle on this group, and some answers I can sleep with. Let the fun begin!
The uniforms are white and the hats are red. Iola has the concessions under control, Pappy's chair is in place and Weber will be on the rail. Let the fun begin!
But it will come. At Destrehan it always does.
This week is the jamboree, Brother Martin and DeLaSalle a dress rehearsal. Six innings is not enough, but that's the system. The season begins on Thursday, in Walker. Let the fun begin!
After 15 games we will have a handle on this group, and some answers I can sleep with. Let the fun begin!
The uniforms are white and the hats are red. Iola has the concessions under control, Pappy's chair is in place and Weber will be on the rail. Let the fun begin!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Family Day
We have six practices under our belt, and Sunday was family day. A chance for everyone to meet each other, watch a little baseball and share some food. I woke up to the sound of rain, never a good thing for a special day. It never rained to hard and the day went on without a hitch. A great crowd, and plenty of excitement. It looks like a good group to work with, and everyone was nice at least for now.
Our 1st scrimmage is Saturday at Lutcher and the forecast is sleet. Baseball season in Louisiana!
Our 1st scrimmage is Saturday at Lutcher and the forecast is sleet. Baseball season in Louisiana!
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
What a day
The crack of the bat, a lovely sound. It must be the 1st day of practice.
Everyone was ready to go, the wait has been tough. A long practice but no one complained, not once. Plenty of ground balls for the infielders, PFP's (pitcher fielding practice), fly balls for hours. The final and most enjoyable part was a 6 inning intrasquad game. And then it rained.
We had to wait an extra 3 weeks to practice and then the rain started falling. This is why you can't give teams two weeks to prepare for a season. It might rain that long.
The second practice is on the football field, sprint turf keeps us working. But we were horrible. We couldn't play catch. There was no enthusiasm, no pride and little was accomplished.
When pressed the players made excuses, the turf was slippery. This could be a long season, if things don't improve.
And it's only day two.
Everyone was ready to go, the wait has been tough. A long practice but no one complained, not once. Plenty of ground balls for the infielders, PFP's (pitcher fielding practice), fly balls for hours. The final and most enjoyable part was a 6 inning intrasquad game. And then it rained.
We had to wait an extra 3 weeks to practice and then the rain started falling. This is why you can't give teams two weeks to prepare for a season. It might rain that long.
The second practice is on the football field, sprint turf keeps us working. But we were horrible. We couldn't play catch. There was no enthusiasm, no pride and little was accomplished.
When pressed the players made excuses, the turf was slippery. This could be a long season, if things don't improve.
And it's only day two.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
It's about time
So the 24th of January finally arrives, and the 1st crack of the bat will be heard. Thank goodness the preparation will begin, and I need it.
Do we have talent? Can they learn the process? Will they work hard? Is it important to them?
I sure hope so, I need to find out. I need to develop them. I need to go to work .... I just need baseball.
Do we have talent? Can they learn the process? Will they work hard? Is it important to them?
I sure hope so, I need to find out. I need to develop them. I need to go to work .... I just need baseball.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
College workouts
I make a trip every year to LSU-Eunice for their annual prospects camp. This year I brought a left-handed pitcher, and a outfielder. 100 players all hoping for a chance to keep playing. They come to Eunice with hope, the coaches are nice and the camp is run well.
The only problem is that LSUE is a defending national champion. Many of these players are only average high school players. There are a few real prospects and they are obvious in this group. It takes 5 hours to divide the pretenders from the contenders.
Then the LSUE team took the field. Their slick fielding shortstop, was mine last year. Sam Carriere started at SS for us for 4 years, and he looks great. We have been fortunate to have many quality players, and he was one of the best.
We are weeks away from starting our 2011 campaign, and a few hours watching a quality college team was just what the doctor ordered.
I just can't wait to begin, I love this game!
The only problem is that LSUE is a defending national champion. Many of these players are only average high school players. There are a few real prospects and they are obvious in this group. It takes 5 hours to divide the pretenders from the contenders.
Then the LSUE team took the field. Their slick fielding shortstop, was mine last year. Sam Carriere started at SS for us for 4 years, and he looks great. We have been fortunate to have many quality players, and he was one of the best.
We are weeks away from starting our 2011 campaign, and a few hours watching a quality college team was just what the doctor ordered.
I just can't wait to begin, I love this game!
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Half stepping practice
The Louisiana High School Athletic Association, has determined that the official 1st day of practice is January 24th. But...
Oh ya, you can workout before that but you can't use a bat or fungo. WHAT ... you can throw and run and roll balls to your infielders, but no hitting.
I feel like we are half stepping our way to the 2011 season. By now we would have had 8 practices and 3 scrimmages, and begin to get answers. Not this year, I have only questions. I hope they are answered by our 1st game on Feb. 24th.
I have an inexperienced team and they need plenty of work. We could be good (yes, Bill I believe that) but it will take some seasoning. Lot's of Tony Chachere's could only help this team.
Oh ya, you can workout before that but you can't use a bat or fungo. WHAT ... you can throw and run and roll balls to your infielders, but no hitting.
I feel like we are half stepping our way to the 2011 season. By now we would have had 8 practices and 3 scrimmages, and begin to get answers. Not this year, I have only questions. I hope they are answered by our 1st game on Feb. 24th.
I have an inexperienced team and they need plenty of work. We could be good (yes, Bill I believe that) but it will take some seasoning. Lot's of Tony Chachere's could only help this team.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
WOW! Where did the year go?
Where did a year go?
My last post was a little more than a year ago and the questions have been answered.
We went 26-10, 15-0, in the toughest district in the state. The kids played as well as anyone could have hoped.
Brandt Bourgeois stood up and was a solid #2 to Kurt McCune (now at LSU). Scott Stonestreet surprised everyone, winning the second base job and then proving to be a excellent 3rd pitcher. He made us go with clutch hits throughout district and even played some 1st base.
Sam Carriere proved to be the best shortstop to ever wear at DHS jersey. He backed out on Nicholls State and is playing at LSU-E, And Matt Smith is at Delgado now playing 2nd Base. Even Seth Montz found a place to continue his career (LSU-Alexandria), after a solid season at 2nd Base.
So what are the unanswered questions for 2011?
An infield in flux, no returners and plenty of holes to fill.
The outfield is more settled with three players with experience. Zack Schexnaydre will be another force in the middle of the line-up. Brett Hebert played DH in 2010 and will solid in the 4 hole, but who else?
Nothing but questions, yet I love it. This could be the most enjoyable year in quite awhile. Few expectations, lots of young talent and plenty of competition.
Let the battles begin, I can't wait.
And I promise it won't be a year until the next post.
My last post was a little more than a year ago and the questions have been answered.
We went 26-10, 15-0, in the toughest district in the state. The kids played as well as anyone could have hoped.
Brandt Bourgeois stood up and was a solid #2 to Kurt McCune (now at LSU). Scott Stonestreet surprised everyone, winning the second base job and then proving to be a excellent 3rd pitcher. He made us go with clutch hits throughout district and even played some 1st base.
Sam Carriere proved to be the best shortstop to ever wear at DHS jersey. He backed out on Nicholls State and is playing at LSU-E, And Matt Smith is at Delgado now playing 2nd Base. Even Seth Montz found a place to continue his career (LSU-Alexandria), after a solid season at 2nd Base.
So what are the unanswered questions for 2011?
An infield in flux, no returners and plenty of holes to fill.
The outfield is more settled with three players with experience. Zack Schexnaydre will be another force in the middle of the line-up. Brett Hebert played DH in 2010 and will solid in the 4 hole, but who else?
Nothing but questions, yet I love it. This could be the most enjoyable year in quite awhile. Few expectations, lots of young talent and plenty of competition.
Let the battles begin, I can't wait.
And I promise it won't be a year until the next post.
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