Over the years, I have spent a lot of time behind home plate as the catcher on my softball team. Last night I was again behind home plate, but it was a totally different and wonderful experience.

I was an umpire for a game between 6- and 8-year-old girls. I have umpired before and always enjoyed it, but this was especially cool.

It rained all day and the field was a quagmire. Every step meant plunging your foot into about three inches of mud, yet I did not hear one complaint from anyone. The game started on time, and all of the girls had smiles on their faces.

As the game progressed, everyone had a good coating of mud on their shoes and heading up their pants legs. Despite the mucky footing, these girls hustled on every play. The game ended with an exciting comeback by the home team, but the 8–7 victory wasn’t that important.

This was the first taste of baseball (or any sport in some cases) for these girls. They all listened to their coaches and to me (as the ump). A few even thanked me. Their parents were supportive and encouraging without being obnoxious.

This was a great example of all that is right with youth sports. Everyone has seen or heard horror stories, but I am glad to report that this was just a shining example of how to do it right. Everyone was concerned with teaching the girls the fundamentals and how to act. The players were attentive and eager.

It was such a refreshing change of pace from the usual cut-throat competition. As I drove home through the dismal drizzle, I couldn’t help but see the sunny side of life.

— John Wroblewski, online contributor