Page 51 - Fully Equipped Playbook

CHAPTER 9: SUPPORT SYSTEM
Could a house stand without support beams? Would your body move without the support of your legs? Can you succeed in a team sport without your teammates? The answer to each of those questions is no. Support is essential, in both tangible and intangible ways.
Olympic Gold Medalist beach volleyball star Kerri Walsh once said, “You have to rely on your support system. Growing up, I always thought it was a sign of weakness to ask for help, but now I realize it’s really a sign of strength to say, ‘I need help, I can’t do it all.”
There is definitely a stigma around asking for help, especially professional help, but I have found that along my journey there were moments only a professional could help me through. There were also moments I just needed the advice of my family, or the ear of a friend or teammate. Being able to ask for help makes you stronger. Never be afraid to say you don’t understand something, or you can't do something on your own.
I feel lucky to have the support system that I do. Each person had their own role in my baseball journey, and they continue to be that constant in my life today. My father has always been supportive, taking me to and from practices and games and tournaments. Traveling all around the country and the world to watch me play. He’s the voice of reason when I feel like I need answers. My mother gave me unconditional love. No matter what is going on in my life or hers, she stays steady in her belief that I can do it all.
My wife has been on this journey with me since my college days at UVA. She’s seen the best and the worst, and remained even keel through it all. In 2009, when I was coaching first base some days and demoted to Single-A
mid season, she made a surprise visit. I was in the on deck circle when I heard her call my name. I needed that support more than you know. When she had to go home, she left me a ziplock bag full of inspirational quotes written on little pieces of paper to read every morning or whenever I needed an extra lift. She is always by my side and I’m thankful for such a supportive partner.
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