Weekends were made for the Brigade

At 6 p.m. most Friday nights and noon on most Saturdays this spring and summer, you'll catch the Sportsmanship Brigade at a ball field near you. Friday night's tilt was a return engagement to Incarnate Word for a 3rd grade baseball game between the home squad and Kirkwood Day School. It was a tremendous evening of sportsmanship - so much so that we almost ran out of prizes. We recognized the umpires for their control of the game and the respectful attitudes they displayed toward both teams.

Two Kirkwood Day players were rewarded for the encouragement they showed toward teammates and opponents throughout the seven inning game. The Incarnate Word player was recognized for encouraging his pitcher when he was struggling as well as cheering for other teammates as they came up to bat. I almost forgot, Kirkwood Day's coach was rewarded for his outstanding leadership and encouragement of the entire team. He showed the same enthusiasm for the kids whether they hit a double down the line or struck out. This game gave the Brigade a lot to chew on, but we like being busy.

Brigade members with our cast of winners

Saturday took us to nearby St. Charles County for a 7th grade baseball game between St. Elizabeth/St. Roberts (SESR) and St. Joseph. One young man from SESR stood out immediately and prominently to the Brigade. Sean Simmons played catcher the entire game. Catcher may be the toughest position to play in baseball. They have to put on almost a suit of armor to even play the position. They get hit in the face by foul tips. Sometimes, the batter overswings and they get hit with bats. Catchers chase balls in the dirt and are responsible for pop-ups behind the plate. All this, and they still have to keep an eye on the guy at first in case he tries to rip-off a base.

So, you may not expect to find a catcher with a stellar attitude. Well, kids often exceed our expectations. Sean is a very good catcher and an even better teammate. He tried his best to settle every pitcher down and motivate them to do their best. When Sean made one or two errant throws, he took responsibility and helped his team maintain its composure. Sean Simmons' play and attitude may be the best kept secret in St. Charles County....well maybe not anymore.

Sean and his coach with the Brigade

The Sportsmanship Brigade is a group of Sports Commission volunteers who attend youth sporting events looking for acts of good sportsmanship. Athletes, coaches, parents, fans and officials who exhibit good sportsmanship are rewarded with a certificate of recognition and a gift card to a local business. For more on the Brigade, including scheduling and volunteering information, please visit sportsmanship.org or call 314-345-5130. Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol