Renee Stevens, Executive Director
Growing up, baseball was a boys’ game. My dad would watch the majors on TV and I would sit next to him and ask a million questions about the game. I didn’t play. One time my dad took me to see the Chicago Cubs in Wrigley Field, That was a onetime memory. Beyond that, it was not something I would do. Or so I thought.
Then things changed. At 29 yrs of age, I came to Open House. A Church league was being formed and OHM staff and residents created a team. So in the summer of 2000, clean and sober, I joined the Open House team, practicing two times every week and playing on the weekends. I soon learned that baseball was way different from what I thought. I learned about being part of a team, working together, playing fair, and win or lose we showed integrity out on the field.
My favorite “baseballism” that I often say to myself today is “Live life like a 3-1 count!”
Today baseball is part of our family. I am so proud that my husband Ralph coaches our son Brice’s little league team. He shares his passion for the game with our son like my father did with me. I cannot believe that I used to look at baseball moms and think they were really over-the-top competitive and enthusiastic. And now I am one!!
So as every game starts with the Little League Pledge and Philosophy, I think, “Thank you for all of you who helped me along the way.” I am so grateful for every one of you who made it possible for me to be at Open House and grow beyond myself. And who knew that along the way, I would learn to love the game of baseball? My family loves it, I love it, and it that continues to inspires me day after day.
The Little League Pledge and Philosophy
“I trust in God.
I love my country and will respect it’s laws.
I will play fair and strive to win. But win or lose, I will always do my best.”
Favorite baseball team: Fort Vancouver Little League (our son’s team)
Favorite Position: Catcher (my son’s position)
Favorite Baseball player: My son Bryce
Baseball hero: My husband Ralph for his coaching
Best memory on the field: Watching my son during a special invitational game running the bases for all the special needs kids who could not run.
My favorite Baseballism: “Live life like a 3-1 Count!”
