Ready or not, Monday is the first game for the Mustang Twins. We had a pretty good last practice yesterday, and the boys were all excited about getting their uniforms, but I've got some concerns. Part of it is just that I don't know what the rest of the competition is like. I fear that as there had been a draft for players by the coaches and that this team had been put together without a coach, this team may not be as talented as the others. Not that I care about winning a league title or anything like that, but I am concerned that not being competitive will ruin the fun for the kids.

I hope I'm wrong about that, but I'll find out one way or the other on Monday. More immediately, I'm concerned about a couple of kids in particular. This team has some less-talented kids with good self confidence, and some more-talented kids who seem to lack self confidence. One barely stands in the batter's box because he fears getting hit by a pitch. Unfortunately, in a 9- and 10-year-old league with kids pitching, one cannot credibly say that he has nothing to worry about. The tack we've taken is to point out that he'll always have enough time to duck out of the way. So far, that's been the case, so maybe that will help him.

Another has a strong thowing arm and has been slated to do some pitching, but lately has been frustrated by an inability to throw strikes. He asked me after this practice if I'd not pitch him instead. I've told him to keep working at it and that I'd like him to try again later in the season. Frankly, we need all the arms we can get.

If it sounds like I'm feeling negative, I'm really not. I've thoroughly enjoyed this experience, and I think we'll have fun regardless of what else happens. I'm more worried about hurting someone's feelings than the outcome of any given game. All I can do is try to project confidence and hope the kids follow my lead.

Team Picture Day is tomorrow. I'll try to post a photo after I get one.