A Whittier face-off

What a great way to end the season: Will's Whittier Nationals played their friendly rivals, the Whittier Mets. To make the final inning a little more challenging, the coaches pitched tennis balls, and allowed the kids to run as many bases as they could (rather than the single/infield or double/outfield rule). Watch Will's hit:

The kids had a ball (pardon the pun!) despite the ridiculous heat, and ended the game with one last run around the bases (Will is number 6). Note that the little girl in the photo below is also a little sister named Ellie. Our Ellie asked, "Is she me?"

The rivalry was fed (just a little) with a tug-of-war, first between the kids, then coaches and families joined in. If you look carefully, you can spot Andy and Ellie.

Will was super-excited to receive his second game ball of the year. His coaches congratulated him on showing improvement in every game.

They don't usually keep score in the instructional league (each half-inning ends with five runs or three outs, whichever comes first), but the Nationals technically clinched the final game. As the youngest player on the team, Will had lots of room for growth... and grow he did! We were so fond of his coaches and teammates, who showed Will utmost patience and taught him about the game. The bar has been set high for the seasons to come!