Not being an all-star doesn't mean life is over

Myself on the other hand am having a hard time understanding whatever happened to the two months or so that the outside temperatures were bearable.

The recent heat-sweltering days of June certainly have had most of us outdoor types seeking shelter wherever it can be found. Over the past week I've found it almost humorous how, despite near 100-degree heat, if you're doing something really enjoyable it doesn't seem to be as hot as it really is.

There wasn't a day the past week a golf game was canceled due to the heat, but yes, the game is one I can enjoy during the winter and summer months. In the winter it takes a layer or two of clothes to get through a round, while in the summer it takes a lot of water and Gatorade to make it to the 18th hole, plus quite a bit of sunscreen.

While golf can still be enjoyed during the warmest of days, there are plenty of both boys and girls that feel the same way about baseball and softball. Though the regular season has come to an end in both sports, the all-star tournaments have begun and yes, these kids are having fun.

Over the past week I've talked to parents with kids making the respective all-star squads, and some that didn't. Though not for sure, but I can't remember hearing so much about who didn't make it as opposed to who did.

Personally, I never had to worry with my own child as far as all-stars went. Throughout his time in Dixie Youth every year ended with a spot on the all-star roster, and deservingly so.

Was he the best player in the league? Absolutely not, but he was among the top players and earned a spot of some very solid squads including the state championship team in 2003.

Though not sure what has happened in the last few years, but it seems there are more than a few disappointed with the process of how an all-star is chosen.

Every year there are going to be nine or 10 kids in each division that are bona fide all-stars. Also every year there are going to be just as many players we used to refer as borderline all-stars. What I mean is they are right there, but must really step up to be chosen.

Anytime a group of individuals is chosen for something special, there are going to be kids left out and feelings will be hurt, but that's how it goes. As parents, I suppose it falls on us to talk with our children not making the squad one year in an effort for them to work harder the following year to make the team.

Plain and simple here -- not making the all-star team isn't the end of the world as some would believe.

Are there going to be kids on the team that some will wonder aloud why or how they made it? Sure, it's going to happen and I guarantee it, but talking down about other kids isn't going to make yours any better.

Instead of bashing this kid or that coach for being on the squad, let what may have been poor judgement, or an oversight serve as a motivational tool for the future.

Do politics play a role in the choosing of particular players? Sure they do and always have, but don't act like the sun won't come up tomorrow because of it. Get over it, go swimming or enjoy other activities with your children.

What makes an all-star, anyway? It takes a lot of dedication during the regular season to get to the team practices and games to begin with, and yes, the player should have some talent as well.

For those that made the respective squads, congratulations and good luck in the postseason. For those that didn't, if it really means that much then work harder and next season chances are you won't be looked over for the next kid.

We are talking about kids here, and yes, it's just a game. Most of these youngsters will probably go to college to do something else besides baseball, but don't take their dreams away because they didn't get picked for the local all-star team.

My goodness, the heat can sure make some people act a fool over something really petty. If your child didn't make it and deserved to, his or her time while come. Sooner or later the cream will rise to the top for all to see. So what, you didn't make it this year. Instead of causing a commotion, find another activity to enjoy with your children.

Try golf -- if there was a local all-star team chosen today I wouldn't be on it, but you can bet your last dollar I would support the ones that were, and no, I wouldn't quit playing because I got overlooked.

It would just make me try harder.

Your comments are welcome at msmith@ stategazette.com.