Mike Martin Sr.: 2020 Disappointment Gives Way To Anticipation Of 2021 Opening Day

Image credit: Florida State coach Mike Martin (Courtesy of FSU)

I am so glad 2020 is past. It was a year of anxiety and disappointment.

Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, baseball seasons were adversely affected, either by a complete cancellation or by a huge reduction of games, sometimes by as much as two-thirds. The pandemic shutdown affected all branches of organized baseball including Little League, Babe Ruth, high school, travel ball, college baseball, summer leagues, minor leagues and major leagues.

The pandemic didn’t discriminate—it hurt everyone.

That’s why I am so happy to say goodbye to 2020 and hello to 2021. The expression on my face has improved greatly just knowing that a new baseball season is just around the corner.

As a coach enters a new season, he knows how hard a player has worked either in the weight room or between the lines on the field trying to implement his coaches’ instructions. Everyone has a goal in mind, whether it’s going to Omaha and making unforgettable memories or moving up to the professional ranks. There are many rewards in coaching—seeing a player gain skill and confidence, watching the joy of family celebrating, and having the privilege of being a part of the pursuit of excellence in athletics and in life. The greatest reward for a coach is to be a part of a player’s success.

There is much suspense and expectation about Opening Day 2021. The 2021 season has a more elevated feel of anticipation and excitement because of the disappointment of a shortened season in 2020.

Opening Day.

Those are special words. When you mention Opening Day or “play ball,” everyone thinks of the game of baseball. Most people cannot tell you what happened on their first day of a new job, but every player and coach can tell you what happened on Opening Day. No matter the age of a player or coach, they can recite every minute detail of an Opening Day game to anyone who will listen. That’s because those memories last a lifetime.

I lost my first game on Opening Day way back in 1980. I lost a few more games on Opening Day over the years, but I did not let that affect my coaching or approach for the rest of the season. The high expectations on Opening Day should continue throughout the season.

There will be many changes in 2021, especially in college baseball. Teams will play anywhere from 40 to 56 games this year. It will be a bumpy ride with constant virus testing, contact tracing and quarantining. If players are in quarantine, teammates will have to fill in for them, maybe playing an unfamiliar position. Relief pitchers may have to step in to a starter’s role. There will be a huge reduction of fans allowed in the stadiums.

It’s going to be different. It’s going to be a challenge. But teams are ready to face the challenge.

Bring it on.