DOMINICAN BASEBALL CAMP

Message From Sam

Please take a moment to read about my experience in the Dominican Republic.  My goal for Dominican Baseball Camp is to share the experience that I had with others.  It is my hope that all who join us for a week long adventure get three things:  1) a fun filled trip with memories that will last a lifetime 2)  competitive baseball games and practices with Dominican players leading to improved baseball abilities and passion for the game 3) a knowledge and appreciation of the energetic Dominican culture. 

 I came to the Dominican Republic after graduating from college in 1996, curious and intrigued that such a small island in the Caribbean could be the home to so many great baseball players.  As a baseball player, I thought that something might rub off on me as a result of my visit.  Something did! On that first trip, I spent four months on the island; practicing and playing baseball with the locals, learning Spanish and immersing myself in the Dominican Culture.  My baseball ability did improve dramatically.  It wasn’t so much that I learned any specific skills, but that I picked up the Dominicans’ passion, excitement, energy and electricity for the game.

My experience in the Dominican Republic was rewarding in other areas of my life besides baseball.  Since my first trip to the D.R. I have returned to the United States and, in my daily life, have used many of the life lessons learned during my visits to the D.R.   Traveling alone abroad taught me many lessons about courage and meeting new people.  The opportunity to observe another culture helped me be more thankful for the material benefits that we, as Americans, enjoy; but it also helped show me that many of the things that we have are not necessary to be happy.  I observed many Dominicans with much larger smiles and far fewer possessions than many so called well-to-do people I know here in the states.  The Dominicans possess an attitude, a zeal and passion for life, which I think we all would do well to witness and learn from.  I have learned that such an attitude can get you a long way in life. 

I hope that my staff and I are able to give you a taste of this experience on our week long trip.