Timing is everything and two months ago or so when I planned a Tweetup (gathering of Twitter users) during a Tampa Bay Rays spring training game for the organization I work for, I had no idea it would be the same day Cal Ripken, Jr. would be promoting his new children’s book, Wild Pitch
The book was released March 5, 2013, so Ripken, who co-penned the book with Kevin Cowherd, was fresh on the trial speaking with major news networks and television programs and attending book signings throughout Florida. Sunday, March 10, was his scheduled appearance at the Charlotte Sports Park in Port Charlotte, Fla., during a spring training game between the Tampa Bay Rays.
The daughter of a high school football coach who earned coach of the year for New York State, I grew up on football. To this day I still don’t know much about baseball but I do appreciate the athleticism and sportsmanship with the game. Importantly, I do know who Cal Ripken, Jr. is. I mean, have you seen his striking blue eyes? Unforgettable! I met the baseball legend in August 2008 when he was in Port Charlotte to announce Ripken Baseball’s new minor league team in Charlotte County (Florida), the Charlotte Stone Crabs. Then in April 2009 I got THIS close to the baseball legend.
I’m not so shallow to fall for hypnotizing azure eyes but what also makes Cal Ripken, Jr. memorable is how much of a gentleman he is. He has the charm to make anyone speaking with him feel comfortable and at ease. He listens and seems genuinely interested in what’s being said to him.
For the book signing, I stood in line with @MandaGator (she taught me a bit about the baseball culture) for about an hour meet and have books signed. Mr. Ripken signed books for about 10 people at a time then took individual photos with those folks. It was a pretty efficient process as it gave each person a little bit of personal time with him and I imagine it gave his hand a rest. When it was my turn to snap a photo, he asked if he could take a photo with me! I’m sure he said that to about everyone but it was nice hearing.
I think the next step in the Ripken franchise should be etiquette classes teaching girls and boys to be ladies and gentlemen , or perhaps that’s incorporated in the Ripken Way I’ve heard about.
Are you a Cal Ripken, Jr. fan?
Wow!
Your Dad was Coach of the State!