Going out with a bang

Spencer Scheps, a sixth grader at St. Mark’s Episcopal, completed his Bellaire Little League career by winning the Home Run Derby.

Bellaire Little League has been a big part of my life, and I am sad it has come to an end. Home Run Derby is a tradition, and the boys who participate are the 12 year olds, so it is their last year. You have to hit one home run to qualify for the second round, and then whoever hits the most in the second round wins. My friend Connor Hrachovy and I talked about how nervous we were because you only have this opportunity once in a lifetime.

My hands were sweating so much it was hard to grip the bat. I took my first swing and hit a dinger down the line, and on the second pitch hit a hard foul ball. But on the third pitch, I made solid contact. I said to myself, That’s gone, and sure enough, it went over the fence. During the final round, there were seven of us. I stepped up to the plate and took my first swing, hard down the second-base line. My heart raced as the second pitch crossed the plate. Bam! It soared into the outfield, and it was a goner. Spencer, hold it together, I thought, I’m tied for first, but there are plenty of batters behind me.

Baseball is a game of patience and good judgment. I knew I couldn’t swing unless it was perfect. My patience paid off with my next ball. Swinging with full force, it was out of the park. I was in first and watched the round end when the reality sunk in: I won! I was so happy I couldn’t even think. This was one of the biggest moments in my life. I couldn’t have done it without my parents, who got me started with baseball, and my grandparents, who have never missed a game since T-ball. Everyone knows them as Team Grandma and Grandpa, especially with their wild colored Vans. I’m sad to say goodbye to Little League and my coaches, but I am leaving with great memories and lifelong friendships.

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