In Training: Introducing the Brit to Softball

What is the best way? I say throw him in a game and see if he swims! Heh.

Royal made it through customs and immigration just fine and we've had a great week together. A friend of my Dad's asked Royal if he'd like to play on their church slow pitch softball team while he's in town (my Dad and younger brother play as well). Royal, being sickeningly athletic, said sure. And, oh yeah, they asked and he said sure the day of the game. I found out we were going about two hours before game time.

The man knows basically nothing about softball. He has a great arm and can hit the ball out of the park, which I already knew from playing catch in the past, but that's where it ends.

Not only did I play fast pitch softball for over eight years, but for as long as I can remember my Dad taught me the ins and outs (pun intended!) of the game. Everything. So while all the strangers were warming up I was watching and shooting off tidbit after tidbit of what to and what not to do.

Our team was up to bat first with Royal batting in the 4th spot, if I remember correctly. Had a good hit and made it to first where he promptly tried to lead off the bag like they do in baseball... but not in softball. Thankfully the first base coach let him know what to do on that one.

After the third out they sent Royal out to right field. As I followed him out there he asked me why they had switched - aw, bless. He didn't know about the three out policy, so I explained it to him. I let him know where he would be throwing next, how many outs there were, that he needed to be backing up the first baseman, etc. Incredible, a husband who doesn't mind being coached by his wife!

He was brilliant all game. Just so full of natural talent and smarts. He had a hit every time he was up to bat!

After the game the field ump came and told me he'd never in his life seen or heard anyone coach from "behind the fence." The ump was very cool, knew what was going on and I took it as a compliment!

The second game I stayed in my seat by the dugout and barely did any coaching at all.