Maybe you have been a pretty consistent and solid player throughout your time playing softball, or baseball.  There are leagues everywhere throughout Southern California (nation-wide, as well) that offer “pay to play” opportunities to join leagues.  Depending on the league, it may be more social, than it is about being the star player of the week. I think what irks me, are those players that join a social league, but come with an intensity and skill level, far beyond what most players in the league have in their player toolbox.
Yes, it must feel good to be the standout in a league you know you can dominate – Congrats (shake my head)

What If the better player Came with A Better Mindset, hmmm…..

Intensity has a place in sports, but you have to look at where you are, and who you are playing with.  Honestly, I have had some of the best times taking the field with the mindset, that I am here to have FUN, but get it done!  Honestly, that has been my player mantra I use to bring me back to Planet Calm.  There’s a lot to it.  It has always served as the perfect reminder for me to be a positive influence, while playing to the best of MY abilities.  Notice how I put “MY” in caps.  It’s because every player needs to remember that rec leagues are a a melting pot of various skills, talents, personalities and certainly, intensities.
So why do a lot of players expect their teammates to play at their level? – Good question.   

Don’t Be Critical of your teammates. Be the one who supports them

The fastest way to becoming the outcast on your softball team is by taking $#!+ about another player.  I can’t stand it when a teammate comes up to me during a game, to tell me how bad a player is.  Trust me, the player is already feeling bad enough, so why make it worse for them, and for yourself!

Pick On Someone Your Own Size

Remember grade school, when we would say “pick on someone your own size!?” Well, I think it can said here.  If you are intense, if you like playing with players of a higher caliber, then you need to stay in your lane. However, if you want to play your game, have fun, while supporting your teammates- the social leagues would be a great fit!  In my opinion, it greatly depends on where the skilled player mind is at.  Those players having something to prove often bring more intensity and a strong desire to win.  Fine, but join a league where that player mindset is understood and welcomed.  Otherwise, take the field with your teammates and be a mentor for your team.  Trust me, when you are in the right league having the appropriate mindset, you will be happy, and so will your teammates!

Have fun, but remember to get it done!

How to Not Be The First-Class Jerk of the Team

1

Warm up with the struggling player. If it is defense that the player struggles with, make warm-ups more engaging by introducing grounders, pop ups, and throwing drills to the warm-up.  If the player is having difficulty, DO NOT say “You’re doing it wrong! It’s like this!”  G-d knows how many times we heard our dad’s saying that to us growing up, that it only handcuffs us, right?   Instead, I always say something like; “You know what helped me with this?” Or may I show you something that I think will make things much easier for you?”

2

If your teammate struggles with hitting, warm-up the player doing fun but beneficial drills like pepper, or taking swings off of the tee.  Remember, a player is more receptive to suggestions when you present it in a positive, supportive manner.  Keep in mind, you are the ball player, so be the one who helps your team, instead of intimidating them.