There’s nothing quite like the ballpark experience.

Whether it’s at a major league game, a minor league game or at a Cal Ripken/Babe Ruth League contest, the environment is something that’s unique.

Over the weekend, I spent some time at the 8U and 10U District 7 Cal Ripken Tournament at Tom Byrne Park.

Not only did I seem some good action from our local teams and area teams, I got to experience the thrill of the win and the gut-punch of a loss.

These types of experiences not only teaches players and coaches about life, they help them grow into better human beings.

It’s helped me grow a lot, too.

I’ll never forget the first time I covered a high school state softball tournament. I think I have written about it in this space before, but humor me.

During the 2008 season, I followed an Andalusia team to the state tournament in Montgomery.

They lost, if memory serves, their second game of the first day. With it being a double elimination tournament, the local team dropped to the loser’s bracket.

Before I go on, let me say that being in the loser’s bracket doesn’t mean that you are a loser. In fact, I think sometimes that it can be the best thing for a team.

In a loser’s bracket, teams get a second chance to battle their way back to the championship.

This certain local team I was following fought its way through the championship. The girls did what they needed to do to get there, whether it be coming up with clutch hits, good pitching and playing quality defense in the field.

And did I mention their followers?

In addition to their fans, fans around the whole park were rooting for their teams. I found that to be quite exciting.

This past weekend reminded me of those two days I spent in Montgomery nine years ago.

It made me laugh think on fonder times.