Bringing back the Lawn Dart

Here is a story about how I earned this nickname which was brought back after last night's games. Last season, I went to play in the state tournament in Mitchell after a reffing clinic in Brookings. So, when I arrived we were already into the game, so I entered in the 3rd inning. Two pitches into my first appearance there is a short popup into what was my old position in left field. It was right down the line and going to be close, so I was hustling after it, and decided I would have to dive to make the catch. So, I laid out there thinking the thing that normally happened would happen. I'd catch it, and slide to a stop in foul territory, However, as I hit the ground, I found that the grass was extremely thick, and I wasn't going to slide at all. So, I hit the ground, my feet go straight up in the air as I'm standing on my head, at my same 5'10" height. Well, I was running, therefore, something has to give and my momentum must keep moving. So, I started to skid on my face with the feet straight up in the air. An odd burn followed, and I skidded for what seemed like forever (it was only about 6 feet). I finally flopped back down with the ball in hand. My team cheered, then broke down into laughter, and Matt Watson pipes up from the mound, "Nice grab Lawn Dart."

Last night wasn't quite the same, but it did resemble it somewhat apparently enough for Watson to again bring out the lawn dart comment. It is just the way I play, giving 100% all the time.