“There is no greater compliment to a ballplayer than being labeled as a “Dirtbag”… that player who loves the game and will do anything to win or improve. “ University of Kentucky coach Brian Green
The term “dirt bag” represents an attitude, a mindset, a deep desire to do anything possible to help the team win. In baseball today, many coaches feel that too many players are self focused instead of team focused. With all the showcases and emphasis put on stats, some people feel that the “dirtbag” is an endangered species in today’s game.
True hustle is usually lost somewhere between little league (where almost every kid left the field with a dirty jersey), and travel league, where kids can get burned out playing close or over 100 games a year.
“If my uniform doesn’t get dirty, I haven’t done anything in the baseball game.” – Ricky Henderson
Lets define a dirt bag and then answer the question: Why do you want to be a dirt bag?
Things a Dirt Bag does
- Loves playing the game of baseball!
- Always aware of the game situation and what the team needs
- Plays the game free and easy, but focused. Best described as jumping in a pool of baseball for 7+ or 9+ innings where nothing else matters but the outcome of the game. After the game, get out of the pool, and open yourself back up to regular life, i.e., friends, girlfriends, parents, academics, life.
- Prepares physically and mentally to play everyday
- Gives his all, every out of every inning
- Does the little things to help his team win at all costs
- Always puts the team above himself
- Practices hard
- Leaves the field with a dirty uniform every opportunity he gets
Why you want to be a dirt bag
- It will rub off on your teammates
- You will make your team better
- You will love and enjoy the game more (I can’t express this enough! If you want to play at the next level, you better love and enjoy the game.)
- It is rewarding to commit yourself unselfishly to something you’re passionate about
- College and Pro scouts notice!
Next time you take the field, do it with the mindset of a dirt bag. Team first. What are some other dirt bag characteristics that I missed?
