I grew up playing softball and it was my life. There was no better excitement for me as a youth, putting on that new jersey and matching socks, oiling my glove and readying my bat bag for opening ceremonies. Little League was the favorite past-time of families all over, and was one of the times in my life with certainly the most vivid memories. But here in Mexico with the main sport being soccer, baseball seems to get overlooked entirely, and the audience is nearly non-existent. With spreading awareness of the love of the sport and the help of our new organization, Pitch-In Playa, and our beloved Delfines, we hope to turn that potential audience into a crowd of loyal fans and baseball fanatics.
Far outside the hustle and bustle of Downtown Playa del Carmen, in an up and coming area filled with new construction, universities, and new highways, lies the shell of what could potentially be Playa's own Field of Dreams. Along with Ex Pat friends and local baseball moms, we are working together to bring awareness to a group of fun-loving and deserving adolescents, with one thing in common: A love for the game. I had the pleasure of being a spectator at this weekend's Saturday game between Playa's Los Delfines and the team from Chetumal, both competing for a place at the Semi-Finals in Hidalgo, Mexico on May 1st. I grew up playing softball and it was my life. There was no better excitement for me as a youth, putting on that new jersey and matching socks, oiling my glove and readying my bat bag for opening ceremonies. Little League was the favorite past-time of families all over, and was one of the times in my life with certainly the most vivid memories. But here in Mexico with the main sport being soccer, baseball seems to get overlooked entirely, and the audience is nearly non-existent. With spreading awareness of the love of the sport and the help of our new organization, Pitch-In Playa, and our beloved Delfines, we hope to turn that potential audience into a crowd of loyal fans and baseball fanatics. Los Delfines have been invited to participate in the Semi Finals in Hidalgo but lack the resources and support to get them there. After reading a post on Soy Playense on Facebook, a simple plea for help from loving baseball mom and youth sports supporter, Bertha Sanchez turned into a success in the making and the organization was named Pitch-In Playa. My fellow Ex Pat friend, Heather Andersen, read the post about the team needing help getting to the tournament and immediately took action and brought in myself and our friend and pro blogger and social media guru, Lisa to help. Along with professional videographer, Ken Brownlee, we went to check out the Delfines game and very quickly saw what we'd all been missing; a group of boys ages 14-16 with a passion for baseball and and a huge appreciation for what we're trying to do for them. To meet some of the players and see what the Delfines are about, please check out our video. Youth sports programs aren't only promoted as an extra-curricular activity and favorite past-time, but as a means to keep kids in a positive environment and away from the negative temptations that life presents them during adolescent years. It's a way to build teamwork skills and leadership, as well as something families can share together and support each other. With your help we can develop the youth and adult baseball and softball programs in the Riviera Maya and give these kids a chance to live out their dreams on a ball field. The sports complex is severely lacking the field up-keep and maintenance necessary to create a safe playing field for all. Teams like the Delfines deserve a chance at reaching their goals and chasing their dreams of continuing a career in professional baseball. Pitch-In Playa is trying to make all these things possible but it takes effort from all ends. We're asking for sponsors to join Pezcaribe and give monetary donations, equipment for the players, and transportation to the tournaments. For more information on ways you can help, please visit us on Facebook or email us at [email protected].
1. Opting for a Half-Day Charter Far too often, amateur and novice fishermen decide to take a half day charter without really knowing what to expect. In order to give yourself and your captain time to locate and grab the best beast in the ocean, you should plan on a full day or even multiple day trip with the same boat to really get the full fishing experience you are looking for. Depending on your expectations of the trip, 4 and 6 hour charters are still popular and a great deal, but with a limited amount of fishing time, not everyone has the luck of snagging a trophy fish in only a couple hours. 2. Picking the Cheapest BoatAs with most things in life, you get what you pay for. It's worth it to pay a little extra for a fishing charter that is reputable with a friendly and knowledgeable staff. Do they have a nice website with a lot of pictures of successful fishing trips? Are they on Tripadvisor or are there reviews for the business online? Most charters in the same area are competitive and fairly equal in price, but you're definitely better off for planning to save a little extra and pay for a better experience. 3. Setting Unrealistic ExpectationsEven in the best fishing areas, there will always be dry days. Maybe the weather isn't so great or the ocean is exceptionally rough that day. It's never a sure-fire, record-breaking day, every day. You might have your heart set on catching a Marlin, but if the barracuda are chewing off the boat propeller that day, you're better off being satisfied. The excitement of fishing comes with the full experience, from being treated well by the Captain, feeling safe and having fun during the trip, and feeling like you've been given a memorable experience to add to your vacation. Arriving with unrealistic expectations can put a damper on your trip if they are not fulfilled so come in with an open mind, hope for luck, and appreciate the beauty of all the ocean has to offer! 4. Failing to Do Your ResearchAlong with not opting for the first and cheapest fishing charter you see online, you also should really check out the business first. See what excursion packages they offer and make sure it meets the needs of your group. If you have children with you, you'll want to ensure the boat is equipped for children's size equipment and life jackets. You may have certain requirements for boat amenities that do not come standard on all fishing charters. Always look into the business first and don't be afraid of asking too many questions. 5. Being Unprepared for a Day OffshoreNumber 1 fishing nightmare.: Missing the whole trip because you are doubled over the side of the boat, calling the sharks. If you are new to being on the water, you should definitely plan on taking motion-sickness medicine before embarking on your adventure. Research and experiment before hand with drinks and snacks that help an upset stomach. The motion and lack of vertigo feeling that you can experience while on any size boat can happen to even the most experienced fishermen. Also be prepared for adverse weather conditions to hit at any time, especially in tropical climates. Just because it looked bright and sunny when you woke up this morning, does not mean that two hours into your trip will look the same way. Keep in mind also that sun and wind is a lot stronger on the open water. Bring a light jacket or rain gear, protection from the sun, and any other necessities you may need for a long day away from land. Charter fishing is can be enjoyable for anyone when choosing a family-friendly charter like Pezcaribe. With a professional, highly experienced crew to complete your experience and help you along the way, avoiding these common mistakes is sure to give you the most welcomed memories of your adventure in the ocean. |
Erin Eller CastilloPezcaribe Manager & Public Relations and Social Networking Specialist Archives
June 2018
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