Under Armour National Try out

Just a few weeks ago Gabe was invited to try out for the Under Armor National baseball team through Baseball Factory.  We were excited that he was invited to try out and we went as a whole family to watch. 

He was the only one there with a cheer squad so big.  Sometimes he gets embarrassed he has such an entourage but someday I think he'll look back on it and be happy he had the support.  

The try out was at the Chicago Cub's spring training facility, Sloan park.  It was cool being in the stadium with such a small number of people and thankfully the security team was gracious and let Madelyn and Isabelle run free and explore. 

Michael just happened to wear the right shirt that day.  

Gabe had to change into his tryout uniform, speak with the director first and then it was time to show them his skills.

See what I mean about the empty stadium, so cool to see if from a different perspective.

The boys got to warm up and even be in the dugout.  I could see Gabe thought it was so neat and I could almost see his future dreams playing through his mind.

Gabe taking the field.

Gabe's tryout was recorded and he had a chance to interview with the leaders.

Gabe tried out for catcher position as well as outfield.  Below he is in the catcher's position.

They had a series of tests the had to go through.  

Getting to play in the MLB is Gabe's true dream and we hope this experience will give him the drive to keep pushing for his dream. 

Jennings and Michael had fun too.  Jennings loves Michael and I think Michael adores him too.  Love this picture of big brother loving on little brother. 

See the girls running wild all by themselves?  Thankfully the security lady from Australia helped us out! 

The last part of the try out was batting, Gabe's favorite.  

Gabe ended up doing a great job at tryouts and we received a call last week that he was selected for the team.  From more than 3,000 players that try out, he will be one of 80 members invited to attend a 5 day intensive training program in Florida to train with college coaches and former MLB coaches.  He is absolutely thrilled and hopes he knows what an honor it is.  

So now we see what's next.  Looking forward to watching him grow and learn and work toward achieving his goals.

Until next time,

Angie