Let’s Play Ball – Getting Active in Community Sports

On occasion, I’ll hastily come to the conclusion that I have a fantastic idea and will act on it without considering the abundance of facts evidencing that it may not be such a fantastic idea. Most recently, I signed my husband and I up to play on a coed VAVI softball team.  I had often passed by neighborhood fields filled with adults playing softball and wished I was out there playing.  After all, what could be better than getting out into the fresh air one night a week and enjoying a good natured game of softball?

What I failed to take into consideration is:

1. I am dreadfully uncoordinated (a well-known fact and the fodder of daily jokes at my expense in our home);
2. I am a 32 year old mom who had her second child 4 months ago and I’m not exactly in peak shape; and
3. I haven’t played softball in 16 years and I wasn’t any good then; 

Nevertheless, I was determined to not let these minor details get in the way of a good time!  And signing up couldn’t be easier.  You pick your sport, the day and location that work best for you and you show up.  Games are held daily all over San Diego County.

About 15 minutes into the first game I realized I hadn’t made vast improvements in my softball abilities since high school.  Shocking, I know.  Despite my lack of athleticism, playing has been every bit as exhilarating and gratifying as I hoped it would be!  And I’m improving a little each game; at least that’s what I tell myself.

It feels great to be outside getting exercise and being part of team.  Our beautiful weather allows us San Diegans to be outside year round, so why not take advantage?  Plus, joining a team is an easy way to meet new friends.  Our teammates are the nicest, most encouraging people we could have asked for. Here’s the best part – we took the championship!!!

Bottom line: I would have missed out on the opportunity to enjoy a very rewarding experience had I allowed all the “facts” to hinder my desire to get out there and play!
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Dani Battiest, formerly Dani Westover, is a native San Diegan who practices law in Carmel Valley as an estate planning and business law attorney at Barger Law Group, APC. When she’s not working she enjoys family time with her husband and their two young daughters. Dani recently opened Kizzie’s Karousel, an online shop selling handmade tutus, totes and other fun accessories for girls.  It is her dream to travel to Italy where she can finally put her three semesters of college Italian to use.