The latest comments, and comebacks, from readers of Press Pros…this week regarding “Daddy Ball”, last words on the state basketball tournament, nostalgic baseball names of the past…and the “National Emblem” march. Read, and enjoy.!
Even though it was published just a scant ten days ago, our column from April 1, featuring the video clip from Louisiana-Lafayette coach Tony Robichaux and his views on select baseball brought an overwhelming response from readers on both sides of this issue. Here’s a few of what we received:
“I’m disappointed that you chose to take two minutes of video and make a ridiculous argument out of something that’s no big deal. This is sensationalism and it has nothing to do with the facts.” … David Keany
(Ed Note: I’m listening. The facts are….?)
“If competition is such a good thing (as you say), and competition against the best opponent possible is an even better thing, how can there be an argument with select baseball against select competition?” … Phil Matisz
(Ed. Note: To save words, read the following counter point to your point from another reader’s perspective.)
“I can’t believe you found this, and I’m impressed that you brought attention to the issue. For most “select” baseball is not about select baseball players, but select families with the money to buy their way into a more appealing form of summer recreation in the name of baseball. Coach Robichaux is obviously right when he mentions that it’s a very bad model for kids and development of good work habits. What’s to earn when you know that you’re going to play because you paid for the privilege of playing” This was excellent, and thank you again for defending hard work and character in competition.” … Tom Killilea
“From my own experience with “select” baseball my son eventually had to unlearn a lot of bad habits when he got to high school baseball. Coaching-wise, it was more a matter of taking responsibility for travel than teaching sound fundamentals on the field. There are good examples, of course, but the “select” experience is far from perfect.” … Michael Disch
“Thanks for making the point about working at whatever level you play. The curveball is equally effective, regardless of who’s hitting .” … Colin Hesson
“First time reader and I remember how much fun it was to grow up with the same kids each year as we learned to play baseball. I also remember the better and older kids taking the time to teach and help the younger kids how to get better because we played together every day. I’m not sure that’s happening now in “Daddyball”. Good article.” … Ray (Columbus)
“The point of the story to me was you have to work hard at whatever you do, and we don’t value or insist on that like we did back in the day. Now, we resent those that do work hard now and try to win, and call them selfish. Just discovered the Press Pros site and like it a lot.” … James Dunleavy
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Our closing argument on the state of basketball and this year’s state tournament brought a nod in the form of several emails like this one:
“While I like the three point shot, but it also has some blame in the cause of lowering skills of handling, passing, screening, and free throw shooting. I watched basketball for 50 years and what you see now in pickup games and open gym isthree point shoots and attempts at highlight reel dunks. The oohs and aahs no longer come as the result of a great pass or ball handling. Fifty percent free throw shooting is sometimes considered good enough today. Loved the article.” … Mike Mescher
Our memorial to former Red Bob Purkey was popular, as well:
“Bob Purkey was one of the first Reds I met when I was a young Reds fan. He was a very friendly guy with a big red face and always took the time to talk with kids and sign autographs. My mom took a picture of him and me one time, with Purkey holding my baby sister. Neat memory.” … John Springmayer
“Great story that brought back a lot of memories of old Redlegs – Purkey, O’Toole, Pinson, Kasko, Gordy Coleman and Johnny Edwards. Very nice. If you ever come down this way with Hal McCoy be sure and look me up. Love to take you guys to the ‘Ribber’.” … Wes (Portsmouth)
(Ed. Note: I’m tempted to do that, but if I looked everyone up that wants to eat with Hal we’d need a table for 50.)
“When I was in grade school we all wanted to be like Purkey and throw a knuckleball. Except, no one knew what a knuckleball was, so we just threw it with our knuckes and called it a knuckleball. As we got older we got wiser, but I don’t think anyone ever got it to do anything. Incidentally, I collected the same Topps cards from the 60s and still have them. I grew up in Waverly and it was really a big deal when you got a Reds player.” … Bill Coates
The blog on marches and the famous “National Emblem” created more interest than expected:
“I really enjoyed that.” … Joyce Elaine (via Facebook)
“I grew up playing ‘National Emblem’ in band and it was one of my proudest accomplishments. I love that march and it still gives me goose bumps to hear it.” … Linda Torre
“I personally enjoy all the musical stories you put on the site and especially the way you tell the story behind the story. Very entertaining.” … J.K. Roberts (Richmond, In.)
“The thee best marches of all time, in this order: Star and Stripes, National Emblem, and Oskee Wow-Wow (Illini Fight Song). Enjoyed the story.” … Tom Sando (Illinois Baseball, ’73)
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