Two months into the year 2020, the whole world got turned upside down. What a year! For the Fowlkes family, having spring baseball season canceled was bad enough, but my step-son Joshua was not able to enjoy his senior year of high school. Looking back, we are very thankful that our family remained healthy. We all continue to pray for the families that were affected by the virus and the brave soles that are taking care of the sick.
But life must go on. Considering the circumstances, Fowlkes Baseball had a pretty exciting year. I was extremely honored to be included in a book, called Baseball In Kennesaw. My friend, Shannon Caudill, coauthored the historical book of images. I highly recommend it. It shines a bright light on the connection of baseball to Kennesaw history, its people, and the region. Shannon wanted to include me, because he feels that Fowlkes Baseball will have an impact on the future of this community.
In 2020, we started organizing sandlot baseball games. This is something we have done for years. After several events, the community has shown a tremendous amount of support. The parents drop the kids off, no adults are allowed to participate in any way. No coaches, umpires, or parents yelling from the stands. The kids love it! You'd be surprised how many kids have never played sandlot ball, only parent organized practices and games.
Fowlkes Baseball has also started a campaign to collect donations of baseball and softball equipment. Our goal is to equip every family, team or organization in need. I want 2021 to be a year of service to the communities that are not as blessed. To donate equipment, just send me a message via this website, or you can donate in kind.
My 11 year old son, Jacob, has already given some of his equipment. He also thoroughly enjoys the sandlot games with his friends. But he had a very exciting year, himself. Two different videos that we sent in to be viewed by the MLB Network, were featured on #Sandlot to the Show. Former major league players evaluate the kids on the show, and both times, Jacob received positive comments that made his day! He represented Fowlkes Baseball well!
My youngest son has always loved playing sports, especially baseball. His enthusiasm and appreciation of the game is heartwarming to watch. I have kept it simple for him. It's just a game, and it should always be fun. Jacob has never had a private lesson, never been to a showcase, and enjoys playing rec ball in the spring with his friends.
Earlier this year, I saw a funny video by Jeff Frye. He is a former major league player that feels the same way I do about the culture of youth baseball. After seeing several of his videos, making fun of "certified hitting gurus", Jacob and I decided to post a video imitating Jeff. It was fun to make, and even more fun to see the reaction. Needless to say, Jacob has found a friend in a former major leaguer, and did a second video that was even more fun to make, and even more popular.
Jeff likes to say "she gone!" at the end of his instructional videos. If you haven't seen them yet, just type in #shegone on twitter, instagram, or facebook, and join the ever growing #shegone movement. I can't thank Jeff Frye enough for making 2020 a good year for Jacob.
2021 is going to be a good year for Fowlkes Baseball. Right now, we don't have a facility, but our ultimate goal is to have a small baseball history museum & academy for training players AND coaches.
I can't wait to share more exciting updates soon! Stay safe and have a Happy New Year!
