Steve,
"Thank you for all that you do for us. We are blessed to have you as a friend, and to have the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM in our own backyard. I have faith that my guys will be better people for having known you, your fellow coaches, players, and families."

Debra Ruffin
Mother of Will, David, and Ben
Auburn, AL

Coach Steve Cosgrove and Evan Bush
(University of Alabama), BOB-NTT alumni
Rainbow City, AL

Hello Coach Steve:
Just wanted to take a minute to say THANK YOU for giving William the opportunity to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM these past few years. He has really made some lasting friendships, and has had a great time along the way. He loves the game of baseball, and is really going to miss playing with your organization and its fine coaches. You have a diamond in the rough with Jimmy Kolaitis. He is a wonderful young man, and he has made a big impact on William's life these past few years. Thanks for sharing him with us. I have grown to love him like he is one of my own children. How could you not love Jimmy!?
Thank you again for everything.

Steve:
We cannot thank you and your fellow coaches (Allen Blackmon, Greg Avant, and Randy Lippincott) enough for including Adam in the Cooperstown Dreams Park week #11, 2007 (August 17-24). It was an AWESOME experience for him! We only regret that Eugene and I were not able to work it out to be a part of all the excitement. It was definitely a trip of a lifetime for Adam. He had a BLAST!
We are planning on Adam playing with the BOB-NTT in Gainesville, FL late this fall. Again, we cannot fully express to you our gratitude for taking Adam "under your wing". We are very blessed and feel so fortunate that Adam has become a part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. We look forward to seeing you in Gainesville and beyond.

Amy & Eugene Jackson
Ozark, AL

Hi, Steve:
Hakeem, I, and the rest of the Haynes Family totally enjoyed our Cooperstown Dreams Park NATC '07 experience (August 24-31). It was not at all what we expected...but, better. We will never forget you. You have no idea how much of a positive impact you and your fellow coaches (Scott "Bubba" Luke and Jimmy "Crack Corn" Kolaitis) made on Hakeem. Please don't forget us, and remember Clayton (currently age 8) is on his way, and hopefully a future BOB-NTT player.
With much love,

Jackie, Hakeem, Clayton, and Jaelin Haynes
Patton, CA

Steve:
Seems likes just yesterday we were going on road trips to Cleveland, Panama City, Homestead, and Tennessee for baseball tournaments...it was great fun!
I hope you were able to notice that Ehren made his major league baseball debut with the Chicago White Sox last night (July 20, 2007), pitching two-thirds of an inning to close out the 8th.
Without the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM, Ehren would never have had this opportunity. The BOB-NTT was the springboard that gave Ehren direction on how to be a better ballplayer, and make use of and improve his talents. We were able to take the the Boys of Baseball evaluations and work suggestions to improve Ehren's skills and search for the right college programs that would give Ehren the best opportunity to pursue his dream.
It was a great thrill to see him take the mound wearing a Chicago White Sox uniform last night, and I couldn't help but think of all the people who helped make this dream come true. The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM is right at the top of the list.

David Wassermann
Sylacauga, AL

Coach Steve:
Words can't even begin to describe the unbelievable week we had at Cooperstown Dreams Park. We just arrived home today and already Jacob "Beefcakes" Brown (Hawesville, KY) called to see if Josh had fun at the Mets game, and Coach Brad called to make sure we got home safely. The boys, their families, and our coaches are second to none and Josh continues to have unbelievable BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM experiences. He continues to make lifelong friendships and he continues to play amazing baseball. We thought Gainesville was great (last December), but our week in Cooperstown (July 20-27, 2007) was truly unforgettable. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts for giving Josh the opportunity to play for the BOB-NTT. Josh told me that he wished he could play for Coach John Starling, Coach Brad McNew and Coach Scott "Bubba" Luke on a daily basis, and that if any of them ever needed him, he would hop on a plane and play for them any where, any time. He is already looking forward to Gainesville in December. Steve, I find it truly amazing that a group of boys who have never met before can come together like they did in Cooperstown and end up 17th out of 96 teams. They played like they had been together since they were 8 years old. It is a reflection on you and on every boys of baseball coach and family that you put together. If we can ever do anything to help promote BOB-NTT down here in Miami and South Florida, please let us know.
Thanks again for everything and we look forward to seeing you soon.

Amy, Jonathan, and Josh Roberts
Miami, FL

Coach Steve:
"I really just want you to know that they (Logan and Jacob) still always hold dear the things you and your fellow coaches have taught them over the years about baseball and life. They both use your sayings on and off the fields. It is such a nice thing when I hear them talk to the other kids about the things they have learned through the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM experiences (games, tournaments, and instructional activities). Thank you again for everything...you will always hold a special place in our hearts."

Trying to Stay Balanced,
Angie Brown
Hawesville, KY

Dear Coach Cosgrove:
I am Michael Sterk's Mother. I wanted to write to you to thank you for your terrific support of Michael in his baseball endeavors. Competing with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM in the Tennessee Fall Baseball Classics in 2003 and 2004 were wonderful experiences for Michael that provided him with a great boost to his self-esteem. As you know, coach, so much of the game of baseball is mental, especially for a pitcher.

Michael tried to walk on the University of Illinois varsity baseball team last year, but he was not successful. So, he devoted himself to Illinois Club Baseball in the spring 2006, and continued to work out and prepare himself for varsity tryouts in the fall 2006. Your continued support was very important to Michael, and my husband and I believe it made a difference to Michael as he prepared for the tryouts this fall. Your telephone call congratulating Michael on his achievement (making the 2007 Illini Baseball Team as a pitcher), and your e-mail to fellow BOB-NTT coaches Jimmy Kolaitis and Terry Jinks meant more to Michael than you will ever know. As Michael's Mother, you touched my heart and I will be forever grateful to you.

You have touched so many young boys and young men, Coach Cosgrove. I applaud your efforts and admire you for the difference you've made in so many lives. Thanks again for what you've done for Michael. Very truly yours,

Joyce Marian Sterk
Oak Lawn, IL

Coach Steve:
It seems like it was just yesterday when our family was at Cooperstown Dreams Park with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM week #4, 2006, even though it is now October. We often speak of the fun times we had there and all of the great families we got to know. Nick really liked his teammates and his coaches, and he learned alot about himself, his abilities and especially how to work hard, work together as a team, and to trust his teammates. I have seen a difference in his attitude about how to live his live and what is important to him--his family, friendships, being a positive person, and working hard every day to be the best he can be.

I just want to thank you again for the great opportunity you gave Nick and our family with the invitation to play at Cooperstown Dreams Park. When we first attended the baseball instructional weekend in Champaign, Illinois in late July 2005, I believe it is one of the most important things we did for our son. The positive energy and messages you deliver to the players have a huge impact on their minds and their lives. I have seen your influence on Nick's life in many ways. He is becoming a good role model in school, and a hard-working 8th grader.

God Bless You, the BOB-NTT, and the Cosgrove Family.

Thanks again,
Jennifer, Jim, Nick, and Emily Passini
Dalzell, IL

Dear Coach Steve:
"We can't thank you enough for providing Jake Faraci with the opportunity of playing on your '06 CDP week #4 Cooperstown Dreams Park team. It was an extraordinary experience for all of us. Each twelve year on the team showed an incredible amount of team spirit, character, unselfishness, and talent. Every single family and coach of these fine young fellows was incredibly special in so many ways. Having a true love for baseball no matter where on the map "homeplate" is for each one reveals that baseball could be a four season sport all over our country for those who choose this as an option. The concept that everyone eats, sleeps, and plays baseball back home is what connected us all from the beginning. However, alone this would not become the connection that would allow us to create life-time relationships. Instead, it is the empathy, compassion, and dedication towards not only the game but others that would clearly help us to determine that we want these friendships to last forever. These are the type of people that no matter where they live...we would want to be a part of their lives. It is an incredible concept: meeting people and getting to know them for just seven days...and wanting to keep these relationships ongoing. Everything you said regarding the kind of families we would be meeting all came true. Of course...regarding the families we knew already...we will continue to build on these friendships as well. The greatest friendships are created through the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM! Leaving everyone on Friday was one of the saddest moments of our lives. We hope to not only keep in touch, but that many would consider staying with us upon visiting New York for a baseball (or non-baseball) related trip.

We completely realize how fortunate it was to have had you, Coach Scott "Bubba" Luke, and Coach Bert "Chili Cheesedog" Farris all coaching Jake in baseball and life-lessons during the week. All of your baseball expertise in addition to your professionalism have enhanced the words, "Play Ball". You have all had a tremendous impact on our son's life. As you had predicted, the coaches had all reached for Jake's hand and touched his heart. One important life lesson provided by Coach Bert was "T-R-U-S-T...Keep trusting your teammates; have confidence." Another important quote by Coach Bert which stands out in our minds applying to school, baseball, and life..."This is real". You were 100% right regarding Coach Scott...Each and every single time he opens up his mouth he is putting on a clinic. The unique way he is regarding players, their families, and baseball as a "life-style" should have earned him a bronze plack in the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. To so many of us, he is a hero...and one amazing "Mentor". We need a Coach Scott "Bubba" Luke bobble head! Coach Steve, all of the contributions you made to the team could not possibly go unnoticed either. It is no wonder at all that the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM is as highly regarded as it is. As parents and educators, we could truly appreciate the standards you set and expect from the players. We love how you consider baseball to be a celebration of life, how you teach our children to not allow anyone to steal their dreams, and how you encourage them to work hard in school no matter what obstacles come their way. You are always making it crystal clear that to play ball later on in life they must set themselves up now by practicing, practicing, and when they think they have had enough...practicing some more. The work ethic and attitude they have in school and on the playing field will travel with them and prepare every single one of them for what perhaps may be ahead: dreams, wishes, and opportunities. Of course, another quote that you have instilled upon us: " You don't get there by wishing...you get there by doing!"

As David Cone has said, "We weren't Ruth, Gehrig, and Dimaggio---but this is the ultimate team." We will always have a place in our hearts for all of the coaches, players, and families of '06 CDP week #4 with the BOB-NTT. It was not only a pleasure getting to know everyone...but an honor. Thank you again for making this all possible. We will never forget what was one of the most special times in our lives. What a dream!"

Lots of hugs & baseball gloves,
Kimberly and Mark "Numbers" Faraci
Long Island, NY

Steve:
"I just wanted to take the opportunity to thank you for a great weekend in Gainesville, FL with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. It was a pleasure to meet all 10 players and their parents. All of our players did very well, and it was a joy to watch them play and get better each game. I would also like to thank you for pairing me up with John Starling (TN) and Jim Herron (PA) as fellow coaches. They are class guys and did a great job to make it one of the most fun and enjoyable weekends of baseball.

Tripp had a great time and really enjoyed meeting his new friends from Pennsylvania, New York, and Tennessee. He is already asking when he can do this again. Thanks again, and best wishes to all."

Allen Blackmon
Troy, AL

Dear Coach Steve:
"Thank you so very much for inviting our son Jake Faraci to play in the Gainesville Winter Invitational Tournament, and for inviting Mark to help coach on the 12 South squad, along with Coach Bert Ferris (OH) and Coach Tim Wentling (IL) this past weekend. It was one of the most fun weekends our family has ever had. In fact, we felt as though we spent it with our extended family (The Boys of Baseball-National Travel Team players and their families). The kids had an opportunity to be with kids they know and bond with kids they just met from all over the country. It is amazing that the organization that we all represent really has such good people involved in it. The morals and values of these families are similiar to our very own. All of the parents we met through the BOB-NTT agree that molding our boys to become good people comes first; hard work in school, and preparation on and off the field creates real baseball players. Steve, your organizational skills, ability to coach and motivate our children, and character building strategies never stop amazing us. We appreciate and support your effort in developing a better world at large through the game of baseball. The children who are able to go through your program are most definitely going to become leaders in our society in later years. The hard work and great effort that went into putting this tournament together is completely impressive to us. Please know how very much we appreciate your time and hard work. You are continually presenting our children with opportunities to become better citizens, teammates, and role models by giving them these and other kinds of experiences. No matter what happens down the road with either of our own children...Jake and Nicole will always remember the baseball and life-lessons you have given them. We have actually weave your philosophy and great lines into our daily lives in our Long Island home. Coach Steve, of course, we thank you for your effort in this particular tournament. It was outstanding in every possible way. We also recognize that the 50+ instructional schools offered each year, plus the numerous tournaments planned over the past 10 years takes a lot of work, time, and an entire heart that touches all of the children involved. We appreciate you and everyone who helps out so very much. Please know that even when we are not with you, you are always with us. Ha, ha...sound familiar? Anyway, thanks so much. Mark and I love the kids on the 12 South team, but, we also admire all of the players and their families on all 11 other Boys of Baseball age-group teams down there for their dedication and enthusiasm. Everyone coming together as one big family in Florida (as we have told you a couple of weeks ago) has given us a second Thanksgiving weekend. In so many ways and with a few tears of joy, we have so much admiration for what you are promoting. Thank you so very much. Baseball players are certainly made in the off-season!"

All the very best,
Kimberly and Mark Faraci
Long Island, NY

Steve:
"TJ, T-Bone, Alex, and our families have all arrived home safely here in the midwest. We all had a great time in Gainesville, FL. TJ says, "Thanks, Coach Cosgrove" with a big smile. TJ really liked the kids on the team, and felt like they really fit well with each other.

The weekend was well organized...many thanks to you for that. Thanks also for including me as a coach, and especially with Mark Faraci (NY) and Bert Ferris (OH). What great guys! I learned from both of them, and I realize that their brains and hearts are in the right place--helping kids.

Bert and I are already planning on getting our teams together, possibly the day after your instructional weekend in Champaign this coming spring. I want to try something with Mark and Jake, as well.

Thanks again for all you did this weekend for us, and thanks for all you and the BOB-NTT do for kids."

Tim and TJ Wentling
Champaign, IL

Steve:
"I don't know how to say thank you, or what exactly I want to say, so I will just let my fingers just do the talking. When Chad and I decided to bring the boys to Nashville, TN in early March, 2004 (for our first instructional activity), we had no clue of the outcome that that trip would have. It was probably one of our best decisions we have ever made together for our boys and our family. I wouldn't change anything...you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM have touch our hearts and minds. These have been such wonderful experiences for our family. Everyday, people make new acquaintances, but it isn't everyday you meet new friends. When BOB-NTT comes together for whatever reason, (a baseball day of instruction or a tournament), you meet new friends: friends whom you can really count on, and friends that make you still feel good about this world.

I don't know if you really know how much we love and appreciate you and the BOB-NTT family. If it weren't for you and other BOB-NTT family members, it wouldn't have been possible for our boys to participate and experience the game of baseball like they do. Our family just counts down to the next time we will meet up again with all of our friends from the BOB-NTT. At home, we deal with a lot of organizational nonsense. So, when we are with the BOB-NTT program for any reason, it is like a breath of fresh air. Tears fill my eyes when I think of all that we as a family have experienced through BOB-NTT. I know that Logan and Jacob have taken a lot from these experiences. Logan is writing about you, Steve, for his 7th grade portfolio...Jacob has already used you and the BOB-NTT program in several school pieces. When they use things they have learned through BOB-NTT, that tells me we have done the right thing with being involved with you, BOB-NTT, and the many fine families. When Jacob has been on the field playing ball with his other teams, I have heard him tell his teammates, "guy's, we aren't going to get this win by wishing, we got to just win it...we get there by doing!" You know, we haven't been able to get other families where we live to get involved, and it hasn't been for the lack of trying. It is just their loss for not wanting their kids to experience chances of a lifetime. All I know is The Kentucky Browns are grateful for the BOB-NTT, its coaches (Jimmy Kolaitis, Coleman Cosgrove, Johnny Ray, Mark Struss, et al.), and you, Steve. Every coach, player, or family member we have met are top of the line...people who love the game, but still respect how they got there and who is to be thanked for it (THE GOOD LORD). We have had many great times, and we hope to have many more with the BOB-NTT. Evan's mom (Melissa from Hingham, MA) sent me the pictures she took. I didn't know I was in any of them...she had captured me with a smile on my face when you Lou Presutti were talking to the kids. I was glad to see that, and it's like you can see my real joy that I feel when around BOB-NTT activities and its people.

I really don't know what else to say. I could ramble on forever about the BOB-NTT. I am so proud to be a BOB-NTT team mom. Thank you for all that you have done for our family...along with whomever else who has helped us that we might not know about. May God bless and continue to shine down on BOB-NTT."

Your friend,
Angie Brown and the Kentucky Brown's
Hawesville, Ky

Steve:
"I just received a telephone call acknowledging that Cole has been selected as a Puma Baseball All-American for 2006. With this selection, Cole has been invited to participate in a five-game series at the Kino Sports Complex in Tucson, AZ on January 13-15, 2006. Steve, I want you to know that Cole would not be the wonderful young man or the baseball player that he is today if it were not for the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Your organization has allowed him the opportunity to participate in several fundamentally sound baseball schools, and showcase his talents at numerous national level tournaments. My family still has vivid and fond memories of Cole being 11 years old, and playing in the CABA World Series in Tarkio, MO for the BOB-NTT. Thanks for everything."

Bryan Gobbell
Nashville, TN

ANNUAL SUMMER Baseball School
Lee-Scott Academy
Auburn, AL
May 31-June 2, 2005
Hunter Mozingo (Auburn, AL) and Coach Cosgrove

Dr. Cosgrove,
"Our grandson, Hunter Mozingo, attended your three-day BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM ANNUAL SUMMER Baseball School in Auburn this week. Since you live here, I assume you have seen his photo in the sports section of Saturday's O-A News.
I wish you could have heard Hunter each evening when he talked to his Dad about the daily baseball learning activities. You would be surprised at how much he learned! He told his Dad that Coach Cosgrove wanted him to continue to participate with the instructional opportunities, and, later on, with the age-group baseball tournaments.
Thanks for caring about the kids the way you and your BOB-NTT instructors (Jimmy Kolaitis, Stephen Hines, Chandler Guy, Tucker Carl) do."

Pat Wade
Auburn, AL

Dear Steve:
"Thank you again for inviting us to Florida! We had a great time. It was an incredible feeling to be surrounded by good people who weren't afraid of opening up their hearts to everyone. To coach from the heart is so valuable, yet, is very rare at times. The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM has touched our hearts, and I know Ryan was inspired and grateful to have had this opportunity. We are very thankful that we were able to be a part of the Boys of Baseball. It is an experience we will never forget. You are a wonderful person, Steve, and what you have given to these boys and families will carry on throughout their lives. We wish you and your family a warm and joyous holiday season, and will look forward to seeing you back in Colorado in November, 2005!"

Sincerely,
Kirsten Reno
Lakewood, CO

Steve:
"I was on my way to work this morning for the start of a busy week, and I thought of how thankful I am that you have taken the time to create such an activity (BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM) that I can enjoy with my son. This upcoming Gainesville, Florida end-of-the-year baseball tournament will allow me to not only get away from the grind of work, but also give me an opportunity to spend quality time with my son. In fact, some of my most treasured time has been by way of events that the BOB-NTT has afforded. Friendships with the BOB-NTT are built for a lifetime with not only great local people like Jody Hillyer and Stephanie Brown, but with many others from all over the continental United States. I would (and will) highly recommend to anyone thinking of taking part in the BOB-NTT to do so.
It is a life-changing experience...and, for the better. Chandler, Belva, and I cannot thank you enough. GAINESVILLE HERE WE COME...AND, WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A BLAST!"

Your friend and fellow coach,
Michael Guy
Opelika, Alabama

Steve:
"Thank you again for an excellent Baseball School & Day of Instruction held yesterday in Luverne, Alabama. Christian always takes away so much from your "Words of Wisdom". Thank you, too, for reinforcing what is so important in all of our lives. Your energy and your faith are an inspiration to us all. It was a very long ride home, but worth every mile! We can't wait to see you again in Gainesville, Florida in December for the end-of-the-year baseball tournament, once again."

Take care and God Bless,
Fred and Michelle Morrill
Lake Mary, Florida

Steve:
"You have been a great help to Brandon throughout the years...always positive and encouraging. I still have a picture of you and Brandon that was in the Opelika-Auburn News when he was about 5 or 6 years old, and you were still an instructor with Doyle Baseball. Those were great years, and you personally gave him a great foundation to work from. He will always be considered one of your boys...one of the family of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM.

This (recent decision of Brandon's to commit to playing with the Auburn University Baseball Program) is very exciting for us, and we are looking forward to some great years on the Plains, 2005 and beyond. I'll try to get ahold of you sometime soon, when things slow down. I know Brandon would love to talk with you."

Thanks again, and STAY BALANCED!

Walter Monk
LaGrange, GA

Colleen:
Thank your for your kind words. Rob McCaa, Coleman Cosgrove, and Chuck Russell are the perfect coaches to be put in front of these 10 year old kids and their families. It was a pleasure to coach these kids this past week (June 18-25, 2004) at Cooperstown Dreams Park. I hope all the kids and parents had the fun that I had! And, it was amazing to watch Victor Mercogliano grow from last year to this year, not just as a baseball player, but as a person. His hard work at home showed on and off the baseball field. Most importantly, his confidence level has grown also. That is what makes my job so much fun...to watch and encourage kids to grow in life. Your family is always welcome with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM, and hopefully, I will see you in two years back at Copperstown Dreams Park with the 12 year old group.
Good luck the rest of the summer, and all the best to your family!

Coach Jimmy Kolaitis
Auburn, AL

Steve:
"As I sit here in my office in Boston on Monday, and as I reflect on this past weekend, I think yes, we were once again fortunate with the perfect weather on Friday and Saturday, but more importantly, we were more than lucky to have the gift that you bring to our children, families, and communities. I hope you enjoyed it as much as we did with your second visit to the Boston/Hingham vicinity.

I am still awe struck at the energy that you bring to these events. I've studied the concept of "power source - power feeder" in my younger days, and I am amazed now in my "'OLE Elliot" days at how perfectly this dynamic works between you and all who you touch. I know you've been told this before, but you have a great gift in the passion that you bring and for the teaching you do. I've met thousands of coaches, read hundreds of books and attended countless clinics and classes on youth sports and coaching. Some of these were very worthwhile. None of these...NONE OF THESE... at any price, provide what you provide.

I'm just glad that your passion includes both baseball and life...and, that somehow you ended up coming to Hingham to share this passion with me, with the entire Hingham baseball community, and with these young players and families. As long as I have anything to do with baseball in Hingham, you will always be welcome. And, I will always do whatever I can to continue to offer these exciting learning opportunities to our players and families, and to pass on to others to do the same, and so in my own way contribute to the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM.

I look forward to meeting your son, Coleman, Jimmy Kolaitis, and the other BOB-NTT coaches, players, and families at Cooperstown Dreams Park this coming July (2004)...and, to seeing you again up here in September for our fall BOB-NTT instructional weekend."

Best wishes and many thanks,
'OLE Elliot (this may stick) Sherman
Hingham, MA

Coach Steve:
"It is an absolute honor to receive one of the 2004 ANNUAL COACHES AWARDS from the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM...just to be listed with those other names is something I will cherish forever.
I still remember making the video to send along with my application in 1999...playing with the BOB-NTT would ultimately advance my baseball skills and overall understanding of the game. Along with the many age-group tournaments the past six years, you, your fellow coaches, and teammates have taught me not just baseball, but important life lessons. [And, there's nothing better than playing baseball in the dead of winter when you live up North like I do!]. I'm going to miss those morning prayers at the breakfast table and our night-time meetings in the clubhouse (#21 Roberto Clemente) at Cooperstown Dreams Park, the team meetings in the hotel rooms, playing baseball at the various sites, making new friends, and meeting great families. Thank you for making me a better person in life...I will always value my times and memories with the BOB-NTT!"

Justin Arsenault #8
Syracuse, NY

Dear Coach Steve:
"I hope you and your family had a wonderful holiday season...mine did. I wanted to let the Gainesville tournament sink in before I wrote to you.

The Florida tournament was great. I found out I can compete somewhere other than my hometown. I know I have a lot of work to get better, but I'm working on my game. I found a good friend on the team that I'm writing to (Blake Bellman, Wooster, OH). I loved that we learned we can all play more than one position, still have lots of fun, and do well, just like my Dad always says to the players on my hometown team. Thanks coach!

Winter is really bad here. I have lots of sports to keep me busy, though. I'm on a travelling basketball team. We practice during the week and play in tournaments on weekends. We're pretty good. I've also been attending a baseball camp at Indiana University of PA. This will go on until baseball season starts. I'm working on bat speed. I have fun doing all of these sports.

We have some pictures from Florida that we will send to you soon. Thanks for the great time down there. I'm looking forward to the Annapolis, MD baseball instructional weekend in March, and to Cooperstown Dreams Park this coming summer."

Kyle Neal (12)
Rossiter, PA

Steve:
"Thank you for the Christmas card and all 10 of the age-group rosters (Blake is going to write his teamates and new BOB-NTT friends from our recent Gainesville, FL time together). We have everything on video. And, as we continue to watch it, words cannot describe the fun that we had with everyone...we are very happy and proud to be a part of your fine organization.

I will have several other players/families to bring along to the next BOB-NTT instructional activities that we attend (wherever those are!). I already have a lot of parents asking a lot of questions about the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM (and, about how they can become involved). I know they have visited your website...and, they are very excited to hear about our great initial experience. Take care, and have a safe and Happy New Year."

Your friend and fellow coach,
Larry Bellman
Wooster, OH

Steve:
"I just wanted to wish a Merry Christmas to you and your family. I hope to see you, the other coaches, and players with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM again, so that we can continue to be a part of such a classy organization. Eric hasn't stopped talking about how much he enjoyed playing in the Gainesville, Florida tournament since we returned home. The biggest thing that he noticed was the lack of (negative or self-centered) attitudes on the part of the BOB-NTT players... believe me, it is not like that on too many other teams, and it was a very nice breath of fresh air!

You, your fellow coaches, and families have something to be very proud of...thanks again for giving us the opportunity.

David Wells
Athens, PA

Steve:
"Michael and I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM in Gainesville, FL...what a great end-of-the-year experience! We both had good time...I enjoyed coaching and Michael had a blast playing. It was also good to reunite and see the families and players again that we met this year (2003) at the various baseball instructional activities, and at Cooperstown Dreams Park through the BOB-NTT. My wife and I commented on how neat it is, not only to see these kids play together on the baseball fields, but also how they interact and hang out with each other off the field (back at the hotel). We look forward to our continued relationship with the BOB-NTT over the coming years. Thanks again for the opportunity to be a part of this organization."

Regards,
JD D'Arville
Luverne, AL

Dear Steve:
"Barry and I appreciate the opportunity extended to Bobby to join the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM at Cooperstown Dreams Park. We are very glad Bobby got this experience, and we feel fortunate to be a part of your organization. Thank you very much for your encouraging Bobby throughout his participation, as we know it was a valuable experience for him."

Sincerely,
Linda & Barry Borchering
Alva, FL

Dear Coach Steve:
"Thank you for letting me be a part of the BOB-NTT at Cooperstown Dreams Park for the 2003 NATC...I appreciate your inviting me to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. See you in Gainesville, FL this coming December, and beyond."

Sincerely,
Bobby Borchering, age 12
Alva, FL

Coach Steve:
"How are you? Hope everything is well with you and your family. Looking forward to Gainesville, FL in December. Abe has been working hard at his game this fall. Let me know if you need some more quality players and families, as I may have some who might be available to make the cross-country venture with us...I know that they would like to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM.

Thank you for recommending our son Abe for Baseball America's 2004 Baseball For The Ages accolade...it's a great feather in his hat! And, the power of prayer and the direct line to the Man Above are something...soon after your BOB-NTT prayers were offered for those under the recent firey seige here in Southern California, the rains came and put the fires out.
You are special in many ways...baseball and otherwise.

STAY BALANCED!"

Your fellow coach and friend,
Gil Ruiz
Pacific Grove, CA

Dear Steve:
"I just wanted to thank you for calling us when I lost my Dad (August 29, 2004). It meant so much to me, my Mother, and our family.

And, my Mother thought that was so nice that you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM prayed for my Father (along with the BOB-NTT PRAYER ALERT) while you all were in Cooperstown. He must have felt like a Hall of Fame Inductee! My Father loved baseball---especially, last year at Cooperstown Dreams Park with the BOB-NTT.

When you let his granddaughter (Dominique, #2) play there, I know in his heart, it was a highlight in his life. Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart. You will always have a friend in me."

Forever grateful for your kindness...you will always be in my thoughts.

Chris Dinner
(Denise, Ryan, Dominique, Guiliana, Christopher, and Grandma Norma)
Monterey, CA

Dear Coach Steve: "I am writing this letter, first to thank you, and secondly, to let you know that the recent Cooperstown Dreams Park (August 15-22, 2003) experience with you, your fellow coaches (Gil, Jody, Bill, and Michael), and the BOYS OF BASEBALL was the very best baseball experience Dominique and the Dinner family have ever had, and she has played a lot of baseball at her young age. We know that you are proud of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM organization...rightfully so. You all did a great job! You treated my family and daughter with so much love and respect. You are truly a "Class A" act. We learned a lot about baseball that week, and met a lot of great families from all over the United States, including families from here that we also didn't know that well before our time together.
Coach Steve, you are truly an amazing person, coach, and teacher...you actually got Dominique to brush her teeth twice a day (and MORE!), and that in and of itself was a miracle. At our first team "Hello!", you said it was going to "...be hard to leave that last Friday", and it was for our entire family...you do touch the heart! Dominique hopes to play with you, your coaches, and the BOB-NTT again in the near future...we do too!
Please give our best to your family. We hope everything is going well with you all."
Love,

The Dinner Family
Chris, Denise, Ryan, Dominique (#2), Guilana, & Christopher
Monterey, CA

Dear Coach Steve,
"Even though we are now miles apart the memories of Cooperstown and all our new friends are never far from our thoughts. It seems as though a day doesn't go by that we don't mention our trip to someone here in Monterey and what a spectacular trip it was. We were so fortunate to have connected with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM through Gil. Our son Lucas was able to experience the game of Baseball as never before. You were able to show that integrity and character can also be taught on the field not just in the home. We hope that as Lucas moves forward in Baseball/life he will always carry with him your words and actions from that week. We have always believed that as parents you need to surround your children with other role models who share in your beliefs. We were certainly blessed with a wonderful group of men to act as examples for our son. So all that and we had a fabulous time! It was more than we ever expected. Thank you and Coach Jody, Coach Gil, Coach Mike and Coach Bill for everything. We will hold the memories of Cooperstown forever close to our hearts."

We hope to see you again soon,
Suzanne & Mark Herbst
Monterey, CA

Hello Steve:
"I want to say thanks for the great time at Cooperstown Dreams Park during the 2003 NATC. I will always remember how true of a professional coach you are. When that one player of yours was going out to play defense in left field, you told him to quit hanging his head for striking out, and then you made the statement that, "I love you, Big Guy!", it made me just realize what type of person you are. One that teaches discipline and love for one another, that sent a message that I will never forget, and I'm sure that player (and your entire team) won't either. I do want to thank you again for "being professional" when you approached me in the field about the dropped ball in the outfield. Week 11 was my fourth time at Cooperstown Dreams Park, and I go there to umpire to share the fellowship with coaches, players, parents, fellow umpires, and all the rest of the fine people that are involved with the game of baseball. There are truly wonderful people in this world, and I consider you one of them. Well, I hope to hear from you on down the line, so please keep in touch."

God Bless,
Ray Lasher, Umpire
Kingsley, PA

Hi Coach Steve:
"I really can't thank you again for the most wonderful week I've ever had, and the opportunity that you afforded our son, Nicholas. Truly the lessons he learned last week (August 15-22, 2003) at Cooperstown Dreams Park, I'm sure will have a tremendous impact on his entire life. It has on ours as parents! Brad and I are just walking around in the afterglow, totally amazed at how that team came together and was so successful after first meeting each other on Friday night, then just the three-hour initial (...and, ONLY!) practice on Saturday morning. We really will never be able to thank you enough."

Sincerely,
Carlyn Boggan
Pacific Grove, CA

Richard Hevier, 13
Syracuse, NY

Dear Coach Steve:
"I just wanted to let you know how much fun I had at Cooperstown Dreams Park weeks #10 & #11, 2003. I learned a lot from you and your outstanding fellow coaches (Gil Ruiz, Jody Hillyer, Michael Guy, Bill Scott, Jimmy Kolaitis, and David Turner). I have learned that The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM always brings out the best in me. When I was in State College, PA and Bristol, CT, at the Little League World Series post-season tournaments in July and August, I still couldn't wait to get to Cooperstown to be with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Playing ball with kids from California, Alabama, Florida, Maryland, and Pennsylvania was really cool. I appreciate all of the opportunities that you have given me, and I love playing on your teams. We'll be at the baseball school in Schwenksville, PA in October, and can't wait to play again for you and the BOB-NTT in Gainesville, FL this winter."

Your friend and TEAMMATE,
Christian Walker (Ya-Ya), 12
Limerick, PA

Coach Jimmy:
"Thanks for the encouraging words. It was gut-wrenching for me to have to tell Elliott he would have to make that tough decision, and I'm proud of the way he handled it.

But, then look what happened when I told Steve. He wrote back within an hour that he already had Elliott slotted for the August 20-27, 2004 Cooperstown Dreams Park week any way. How's that for an answer to a prayer? Man...somebody's watching out for Elliott Warford!

I still say the week with you in Cooperstown (June 13-20, 2003) was the turning point in Elliott's life. In one week, I watched him mature from "wanting" to be a baseball player to "knowing" that he can be. He hasn't backed off one inch since then. He wants to be a coach someday, and he will use you, Coleman Cosgrove, and Coach Steve as his role models, no doubt. Character comes first! God used you and Coleman, Steve, and Lou Presutti (Founder, Cooperstown Dreams Park), but you in particular, Jimmy, to be the right guy at the right time...to be that "one" key person when He was ready to make a difference in Elliott's life. I know I keep saying it over and over again, but you just can't imagine the change that came over him when you trusted and encouraged him and gave him a chance."

Thanks and God Bless!
Lewis Warford
Jacksonville, FL

Dear Coach Jimmy and Coach Coleman:
"The trip to Cooperstown Dreams Park (June 13-20, 2003) would not have been possible for me and my Dad if the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM hadn't opened these new and exciting doors for us. You have both taught me to play top baseball and tough defense...I think that you are both great coaches. Thanks for all of the encouragement and everything that you helped me and my teammates with during the week...I look forward to lots more times with you and with the BOB-NTT in the future."

Sincerely,
Elliott Warford, Age 10
Jacksonville, FL

Dear Steve:
"We would like to thank you very much for inviting our son, John, to Cooperstown Dreams Park (July 4-11, 2003) to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Words cannot express the awesome time we all had watching the boys play ball and becoming friends. This new experience for John has enlightened him in a way that we could not have imagined.

After being with you, your fellow coaches, Mike Latimer ("Skipper"!) and Bennett Frazier, John came home with an improved outlook on himself and the game of baseball. You have given John the opportunity to express himself through the game of baseball. You taught him how important it is to represent the BOB-NTT, his family, his team, and himself in positive ways. We will never forget this truly great experience you have given our son, John, and our entire Campbell family. It was really neat to get to know 12 other families from all over the country...we are all grateful to you, Steve, and to your organization. We feel truly blessed to have met you, and to have been a part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM.

We will make every effort to continue attending your Baseball Schools & Days of Instruction in PA, MD, and elsewhere....AND, to staying involved with every opportunity!"

See you soon,
Campbell Family
Rosa, Gordon, John, Michael, & Victoria
Hatfield, PA

Dear Coach Steve
"Thank you so much for the invitation to return to Cooperstown Dreams Park for the 2002 NATC...if it were not for school, I/we would definitely be there! I had the best time of my life at Cooperstown, but my favorite was that I had the chance to spend time with you. You are a great coach, and hopefully, a friend for life. Please keep in touch. I always think of what you told us, especially, that "... I am a diamond in the rough!" I hope to hear from you soon...I will play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM every opportunity that I can."

Your friend and player,

Alex Acevedo
Miami, FL

Dear Steve,
"Please let me take a minute to express my gratitude to you and to Coach Mike Latimer (The Skipper!). You both gave Alex a gift that no one else could, which is confidence in himself. He puts a smile on my face when he trys to explain to me to have a little more patience with him, because, in your words, "...he is a diamond in the rough!" I do hope that we can always keep in touch, and hopefully in the near future, we can have Alex involved with you and your program again, and for a long time in the future.

Again, Steve, thank you very much for thinking about and including Alex. God bless."

Ricky Kattan
Mother of Alex Acevedo
Miami, FL

Dr. Cosgrove:
Thank you for the knowledge and opportunities you have provided for me and so many others.

Andrew Yancey
Little Rock, AR
Currently playing for Davidson College

Steve,
"Just want to take the opportunity to let you know how grateful my wife and I are for the way you handled our son, Josh. He came back home (from the USA BASEBALL Jr. Olympic Championships, Tucson, AZ, June 15-25, 2000) telling us what a great time he had. He said you ran a great organization, and that this was the best "all around team" he had ever been involved with. It sounds like you played against some of the best teams in the country. Your words of encouragement meant a lot to him, too. My only concern was with the message you left on our answering machine. After my wife and I finished listening to that unbelievable, outrageously glowing report, we wondered if you actually had Joshua David Sullivan on your team... surely this isn't that same kid we have to deal with on a daily basis! We can't thank you enough, Steve, and hope Josh has the opportunity to play with you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM in the future."

Jerry Sullivan
Little Rock, AR

Coach Cosgrove,

"I just wanted to tell you thanks for the opportunity that you gave me with Cooperstown. It was something I will ever forget. It was the time of my life. You are the best coach I have ever had. You also get me to play to my potential. You are also a great life teacher. I hope we can meet again in Gainesville, Florida. Thanks also to all my coaches Coach Jerome, Coach Phil, Coach Gil, Coach Mike, and Coach Gene."

Elliott Byers
Wilkes-Barre, PA

Coach Steve:
"I'm writing to thank you for your generosity in the 2004 ANNUAL COACHES' AWARD. I very much appreciate it. The time spent with you, your fellow coaches, and the teams will always remain very special to me. I was accepted by the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM at a time when I really needed development and experience, and I want to thank you for that opportunity. You open the door to any player in need of guidance and are an example for the game of baseball. I would like to also thank you for bringing me closer to the Lord. I thank Him and my parents everyday for the opportunities they provide me. Like John Wooden once said, "The most important profession in the world is parenting. The second is teaching, and everyone is a teacher to someone." Thanks for being my teacher at a time when I was in need."

Your friend and player,
Smoot Carter
Winchester, VA

Dear Steve,
"I've spoken with Smoot a couple of times, both during the tournament and afterwards. He had a ball, and though I couldn't be there, I feel as if I were. You all have done it again...they all enjoyed a class experience together that everyone will long remember! Best wishes to you, and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM!"

W. Smoot Carter, Sr.
Winchester, VA

Steve,
"I just wanted to write and thank you for the profound effect that you have had on my family. After Tucson, the two Smoots came back changed men. The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM really changed them spiritually...and, please thank Coach Terry Jinks for his exceptional messages and lasting impact. It was really neat for me to see how much my son has improved. He really wants to be good. And, I had a great weekend with him, too!"

Susie Carter
Winchester, VA

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"My name is Caleb Parker and I am 9 years old. I love the Lord and baseball. I know God has blessed me with the talent for baseball and I want to use my talent to the best of my ability. I want to thank you for having this baseball school. I have learned so much that I can use in my baseball games. I believe God has put you in my path for a reason. I want to thank you again."

Caleb Parker
Tallassee, AL

Coach Cosgrove,
"I would like to thank you for a fun, supportive and positive baseball school. Caleb has thoroughly enjoyed it. You have inspired him tremendously."

Jim Parker,
Tallassee, AL

Steve,
"I can't say enough how much I appreciate the opportunity (Cooperstown Dreams Park, June 14-21, 2002) afforded Michael and me to be a part of this incredible group of families and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. To say that we had the trip of a lifetime barely touches it. Thanks especially to Jimmy Kolaitis, Coleman Cosgrove, and great fellow coaches(Bob Burke, Tom Francis, and Mike Latimer)for helping Michael's dream come true. My bucket of memories runneth over. One, Two, Three...TEAM!!!!"

Mike Waldrop
Auburn, AL

Steve,
"Thank you very much for a GREAT baseball experience. No one in the world is doing what you have done for kids through the great game of baseball. You have a passion for the game and a loving heart for people. You are a class act and I am very blessed to have been a part of it."

Paul "Bucket" Benzer, Coach
Portland, OR

Steve:
"It was great to see you and your team again last week. This year's trip was very different than the past three years that I have attended/brought teams to this particular national level tournament site. A lot of the teams we played showed very poor sportsmanship, and oftentimes the coaching examples were pathetic. You, your fellow coaches, and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM represent one of the top teams/programs in the country ...setting exemplary standards! What you have done for youth baseball and for the kids/families in your program has made a significant difference in the quality of life for those direct participants (...and others!) throughout our nation. You are changing peoples' lives in a positive way through the game of baseball. Thanks, Steve...keep it going!"

Paul "Bucket" Benzer, Coach
Portland, OR

Dear Steve,
"I don't know where to start thanking you for all the opportunities and tips that you have given me. It has truly been a pleasure seeing you and meeting you...our trips to Cuba and to the Dominican Republic were chances of a lifetime! Thanks for being a friend, a coach, and a wonderful person."

Adrian Cardenas #44
Miami Lakes, FL

Mr. Cosgrove,
"Thank you very much for giving Alex a chance to play with your team at the USA BASEBALL Junior Olympic Championships in Jupiter, Florida. We really enjoyed ourselves, and we got to meet a lot of neat people. It was a great experience...a chance of a lifetime."

Carlton and Nadine Boston
Bartow, FL

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I want to thank you for letting me be part of your team. I want you to know that I enjoyed myself, learned a lot, and met a lot of good players. It was a great experience for me, and I will always remember the people and players I met along the way."

Alex Boston
Bartow, FL

Dear Dr. Cosgrove,
"I wanted to write you a note to thank you for giving me an opportunity to play for the Boys of Baseball in Cooperstown this summer. It was very fun and I had a great time playing baseball there. It was fun sleeping in the dorms with my teammates too. I faced a lot of good pitchers and I learned how to hit against them. It was a good experience playing there and I hope I get the chance to do it again sometime."

Sam Francis
Annapolis, MD

Dear Steve,
"Thank you very much for allowing us to participate with the Boys of Baseball in the NATC at Cooperstown. Kyle had a great time! Your upbeat positive spirit and baseball knowledge (Kyle was amazed how much you knew!) made for a great tournament. The entire team was made up of fine young men. Their making the final eight with only nine healthy players is a testament to your coaching skills and their will to compete. I share all your coaching beliefs and hope you do not mind if I pass on a few of your comments with future teams, I may coach."

Ty Moffatt
San Diego, CA

Dear Coaches,
"My son P.J. had a GREAT time with the Boys Of Baseball team in Cooperstown. Those memories will last a lifetime. And I hope that there will be more to come. The camaraderie of all the families was great. My daughter will also have fond memories of the experience since this was a true family gathering. My appreciation to you and the other coaches as well as to Steve."

Pedro M. Roman
Miami, FL

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I signed a letter of intent 4/12/01 for a baseball scholarship to Lenoir-Rhyne College in North Carolina. As of right now LR is ranked 18th in the nation in Div.II. I look forward to seeing Brad Hightower when we play Columbus State. But I just wanted to write you and thank you for giving me the opportunity of playing for the Boys of Baseball in the world series in Homestead, and the fall classic in Tennessee. The opportunity of playing and meeting such a great group of kids each time has been one of the greatest experiences of my baseball career. So I just wanted to say thank you for all that you have done, and what a pleasure it was to be coached by yourself, Phillip Landers, Larry Yancey, and Terry Jinks. Once again thank you."

Sean Ranson
Powell, Ohio

Dear Dr. Cosgrove,
"I've meant to write for the past year to tell you how much you have changed my family's life and the lives of other people you've never even met.
Two year ago my husband saw an ad in Baseball Parent for The Boys of Baseball Travel Team. He called and we sent in a tape of our son Patrick. You called us back to say he was able to go to Cooperstown and to buy him a smaller glove. We went to Cooperstown and had a great time. We watched some fabulous baseball, had beautiful weather, DreamsPark has wonderful fields and a great view.
So thank you, for seeing something on that tape, for hearing something in my husband's voice. We've had two great vacations because of you and hoping to make it three in row this year."

Daphne Mann
Edinburg, PA

Steve,
"I want you to know you made a big impact in the life of my son. He often speaks of Coach Cosgrove and remembers many of the Cosgrovisms he learned from you in Cooperstown."

Dan Burkett
Woodstock, IL

Howdy Steve,
"As we approach this Christmas and the end of the year I find great joy in reflecting upon the experience in Cooperstown with you. I am grateful that Almighty God chose you and our family to come together for a week long event that has impressed my son Jordan in such a positive way. Jordan often states how the week spent with you at the Dreamspark has been the highlight of his life, especially his baseball life. We find him quoting many of your quips and recall in particular our last fall baseball game vs a team from San Francisco. SF brought in a fireball closer, much faster than anyone we faced all year. Jordan ripped a triple in the gap in right center. After catching his breath at third, said to me in the coaches box, 'You know Dad, when he showed me his back pocket, I showed him mine, and that made all the difference'. God Bless you, Steve, and your family. May God also look after your Ministry in touching the lives of so many kids and their parents alike. The light within you reflects well in those of us whom you have so graciously touched."

Peter Casas, Christina,
Jordan, Carly & Justin
Monterey, CA

Dear Steve,
"I just wanted to extend my thanks to you for inviting Joseph to participate at the Winter Tournament in Gainesville, and for giving him the opportunity to play baseball during our off-season. He loves playing baseball, and Joe and I enjoy watching the games. I was truly impressed with your motivation and enthusiam. I was especially touched when I saw Coach Bill Ruffin hug Joseph after he pitched on Sunday. Little things like that can make a child feel very important, and it made Joseph feel pleased with himself. Again, thanks for your support of Joseph."

Jean Monar
Severn, MD

Steve,
"Thank you for all you do to help boys like Bubba have the opportunity to play the game of baseball and learn the skills needed to excel at the game of life. Everytime Bubba has joined the Boys of Baseball team for a trip, tournament, or workout, it has been a positive experience. I can say that he always returns from time spent with you with a smile on his face. In a time when everyone seems to be interested in no one but themselves, you truly help these boys to 'STAY BALANCED'."

Angela Mauldin
Auburn, AL

Hi, Steve and Family,
"We had a wonderful baseball year, and the Schmidt's really want to thank you for all the fun and learning opportunities that you Steve, and the Boys of Baseball players and families have brought us. There sure are a lot of very nice people that we met. We were so impressed with the politeness of all the boys too."

The Schmidts
Karl, Ruth, Nikole, and Mike
Saginaw, MI

Dear Steve,
"The California boys and I would like to say "thank you" for the wonderful time you offered us in Cooperstown. I spoke with all our parents and boys and we all agree the Dreams Park experience was one of the most positive times of their life. Thanks again for including me in the coaching staff. I had a great time, too."

Lindsay Brehm
Encinitas Reds Baseball
Encinitas, CA

Steve,
"... would like to thank you for the opportunity to meet you and the Boys of Baseball team. It was a great experience. We like your goals and standards and feel they were met during the weekend of play. It was great meeting the other families and know why you picked their sons for your team. Maybe our paths will cross again. Once again thanks!"

Joe Tatai
Apopka, FL

Dr. Cosgrove,
"Thank you for this opportunity to play baseball, especially in October. I learned quite a bit. I especially enjoyed meeting you and seeing all of the guys again, the new guys as well. As far as I go with the game of baseball, I will always remember my times and experiences with Boys of Baseball. Thanks again, and I hope to keep in touch with you and Coach Rich Luppino."

Mike Ranson
Powell, OH
Currently playing for Lynchburg College
Lynchburg, VA

Steve:
"I would like to thank you for the wonderful experience you have given to my family and me. My parents and family surely enjoyed watching your games and being "involved." They are all avid baseball fans, and have never experienced this high quality, first-class organization you provided. Linda and I would also like to mention the unique experiences you provided for Jimmy you hit all the bases the things he learned and friends he made are priceless and he will never forget it. You and your coaches run a first-class operation, and I am very proud that Jimmy was a part of your team(I still wear the shirt)!"

Jim Nervina
Syracuse, NY

Dear Stephen,
"I just wanted to thank you again for coaching our son, Joel, at the tournament last weekend in St. Louis. Your closing words, in particular, to all of the players clearly demonstrate what the Boys of Baseball organization is attempting to teach our youth. Thank you for those words of guidance and for reminding the players of the important aspects of life beyond the game they love. I am very proud to see Joel have and opportunity to play for men with this kind of integrity. You walk tall in their eyes."

Stephen Baird
Woodstock, IL

Dear Coach Steve,
"Thank you for inviting me to be on your team. It was very fun to play at this level. Thank you for giving me opportunities to play a lot. I really enjoy wearing my Boys of Baseball shirts and hats. I am going to work on my game all winter to get ready to play on the big fields next year."

Anthony Randich
Rochester, NY

Steve,
"...Keep teaching the youth of America the game of baseball; you're a good ambassador of America and baseball!"

Eddie Arzola
St. Louis, MO

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"Thank you for remembering me on my birthday. I liked my apples. I'm also using my toothbrush and toothpaste. Thank you for my gum and all that you've done for me. ...Thank you for giving me all the opportunties you've given me to be a good ball player, to become a good citizen, and a member of the Boys of Baseball - National Travel Team. You are really neat!"

Jamie Drinkard
Auburn, AL

"[We] are very thankful for the wonderful memories and friends we have made through the years... We certainly include meeting and knowing your family in that group of friends and special experiences. Your kindness and caring nature is most appreciated. You have served as a wonderful coach and positive example..."

Michael McFarlin
Newnan, GA

Coach Steve,
"Thank you for inviting me on your Boys of Baseball team to go play in St. Louis. It was a good team with great coaches. I had a lot of fun on your team, especially playing baseball and winning the tournament. You know a lot about baseball, kids, and you have fun doing it. Thanks for letting me be on your team."

Rickey Ivicevic
San Marcos, CA

Dr. Cosgrove,
"Thanks so much for giving Blair and us the opportunity to experience the Cooperstown Dreams Park with your classy Boys of Baseball organization."
Aloha and mahalo,

The Ellington Family
Honolulu, HI

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I had a great time with Team USA (2001 USA BASEBALL YOUTH NATIONAL TEAM) and we won the Gold Medal! The competition was great and it was just a terrific experience! Thanks again for all your support and all the opportunities you have given me the last five years. I hope I get to play for you a few more times before I'm too old! I'll never forget the last two USA BASEBALL Junior Olympics or that first Cooperstown trip in 1997. Coach Cosgrove, thanks again for your help and all that the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM has done for me. Hope everyone is doing well, and tell everyone I said hi."

Chris Lubanski
Schwenksville, PA

Read Baseball America's article on Chris Lubanski

Dear Steve:
"Very happy that you and the BOB-NTT families made it home safely! Congratulations on another wonderful run at Cooperstown Dreams Park...once again, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the entire Lubanski family. Sitting on a bench at Dreams Park last week, we could remember very clearly, and very fondly, the moments that Chris and our family shared with you six years ago. As you know, that first 1997 Cooperstown Dreams Park and BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM experience was really the initial step in what would be an amazing and blessed journey for our family...from Dreams Park to the two Junior Olympics (Tucson, AZ and Jupiter, FL), to two summers with USA Baseball (YOUTH NATIONAL TEAM '01, and the JUNIOR NATIONAL TEAM '02), to a Florida State University baseball scholarship, to the 2003 Gatorade National HS Baseball Player of the Year, to the #5 pick in Major League Baseball's 2003 amateur draft. Believe us, when the book is written, the BOB-NTT will be a big part of it, just as it has been in our family's life since 1997.

Chris will never forget the times he spent in a Boys of Baseball uniform, and now our younger sons, Mike and Joe, are beginning their own stories with Coach Cosgrove and his excellent cadre of coaches. Mike had a tremendous time in Cooperstown, NATC week, 2003, and will use this experience, just like Chris did, to continue developing his potential both on and off the diamond. We are very grateful for the opportunities you gave Mike, and we are quite proud of his contributions to the team's success, especially playing in his big brother's shadow. We, of course, look forward to Gainesville, FL in December and beyond, and Chris, as well, is excited about his continued role with the BOB-NTT overall program in Gainesville, as Coach Chris!

Please pass along our best wishes and sincere appreciation to both Coach Jimmy Kolaitis and Coach David Turner for their dedication and efforts on the players' behalf in Cooperstown. Although we didn't get the chance to talk much with David Turner, we know that his son is not only a phenomenal athlete, but a phenomenal young man as well, a true credit to his fine parents, David and Barbara Turner. Regarding Jimmy Kolaitis, let us just say this...he can coach and mentor our sons--including Chris--any time, any place, in any situation, and we hope that Jimmy never hesitates to contact our family if ever, whenever he needs a friend...we will always be there for him.

Our sons have learned many lessons having been part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Of all the lessons learned however, perhaps the one that may guide them the most is about overcoming adversity. As you have noted so many times, it's not how you act when things are going well, but how you act when things are not going your way. Both baseball and life will throw us curveballs, and how we battle through these difficult situations is a definite test of our character, or, as the baseball folks call it, one's "makeup". Our sons are better players and better young men for having learned this lesson, and they will surely be faced with even more challenges as their lives evolve. Their times with the BOB-NTT have helped to shape the foundation that their adult lifes will be built upon."

Your friends,
Wally & Betsy Lubanski
Schwenksville, PA

Dear Steve:
"Team USA (USA BASEBALL Junior National Team 2002) won the Bronze Medal today in the Junior World Tournament, beating Canada 12-3. Chris hit two homers today, and had two hits yesterday in a tough 4-3 semifinal loss to China. Another tremendous experience for him...sometimes, I think we have been overly blessed with all that Chris has achieved. A lot of hard work, determination, and sacrifice...and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM was there right from the beginning."

Wally Lubanski
Schwenksville, PA

Coach Jimmy:
I just wanted to take a minute to say THANK YOU for the time that you have given William over the past few years. You have really been a positive influence on him, and Freddie and I as his parents really appreciate it. We are going to miss being around you and the Boys of Baseball - National Travel Team program. William enjoyed every minute with you and the rest of the gang, not only with BOB-NTT, but everything that you have been involved in with him. Your encouragement and advice to him is priceless as he begins a new chapter in his young life. Don't get me wrong, we have some unfinished business at hand right now (Alabama State HS Baseball Championship), but I just wanted to send you a quick note while I had a few minutes. William is a good kid and people like you only help keep him on the right track. His goal is to make it to D1 college level baseball, and hopefully with a lot of work and some good luck, he will complete the journey that he started so many years ago.

Hey Coach Steve:
We just wanted to drop a note to say thanks so much for the opportunity to be at Cooperstown Dreams Park, July 20-27, 2007. Kyle had a great time, and we met some really nice parents...even got to go swimming in New York in July! We did get to see the top of Yogi Berra's head! Joy thought the sign said FREE autographs, but it said LIVE autographs! Our team played some great baseball during that week, just couldn't put it together in the championship round. Let us know of anything we can do to help the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM.
Do keep in touch with us, especially since our two boys are "old men" now! Chris is now 15 and driving and Kyle just turned 13, but both are looking forward to seeing friends they made at Cooperstown in Gainesville, Fl in December at the end-of-the-year BOB-NTT Reunion Winter National Tournaments. We look forward to hearing from you, and if the boys can help you in any baseball schools around here or elsewhere, don't hesitate to give us a call or e-mail...we will be there for BOB-NTT.
By the way, if you ever want to hear what Coach Scott "Bubba" Luke sounds like when he snores, Kyle taped him in 'ole clubhouse #37 (Casey Stengel). He still has it recorded...HA! HA! Take care, and again, thanks so much for the opportunity you awarded us once again in allowing us to be a part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM at Cooperstown Dreams Park...great memories and lasting relationships.

Mark, Joy, Chris "T-Bone", and Kyle "Crouton" Gothard
Opelika, AL

Good Morning Coach,
I am just now trudging through the 200+ emails from the last 9 days, but I just wanted to say thank you for our time together at Cooperstown Dreams Park, June 15-22, 2007 with the 10 & unders. You truly make a difference in kids, coaches, and parents lives through the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Davis and I were prepared to play baseball and have fun, but we weren't prepared for the fellowship, stewardship, comradery, and dedication from the families. I truly can't remember the last time I have seen Davis laugh, smile, and cut loose this much. You have a gift for picking kids and families that bring out the best in everyone. Being heavily involved with the kids last week didn't give me much time to get to know their families, but towards the end, you could tell that the families got to know each other and had become close as well.

I plan on going through the pictures over the next week or two and am going to see if anyone else has any pictures they want to send in for the DVD as well. Take care and get some rest for your next few weeks at CDP.

Chris Agle
Gainesville, FL

Steve:
Tim & I want to thank you very much for the opportunity that you gave to Nolen to be able to attend Cooperstown Dream Park (June 15-22, 2007) with the 10 & unders. It was truly a dream come true for him to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. I don't mean to brag, but I know that Nolen has a talent for baseball, but mostly he has the heart for baseball. He loves playing ball so much that when he is not playing on the field he is reading a baseball book, watching a baseball movie, or even at the local Little League field watching his friends play. This trip is all he has talked about since we picked him up yesterday morning. He already can't wait until Florida in December. The first thing he asked was, "Am I going to get to go"? He knows that Tim and I will do anything it takes to make sure he plays ball and becomes better my attending instructional activities, and so forth. We will take a look at your schedule for BOB-NTT schools for next year before making out our travel league schedule, and hopefully be able to attend a few. Again, thanks for everything that you and your fellow coaches (Coleman Cosgrove, Chris Agle, Jim Herron, and David Westrich) did for and with the team. I will get my pictures to you soon on a disk...we cant wait to see Chris's pictures.
All the best.

Tina & Tim Milton
Clarksville, TN

Steve:
I know Allen has thanked you many times for the opportunities you provide through BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM, but I wanted to thank you as well. Tripp has had such great experiences at all of the BOB-NTT events. He talks all the time about the new friends that he has met and how he can't wait to see them all again. I have also enjoyed meeting new friends and, seeing them again at subsequent events is really a lot of fun. Hunter also got to visit and play with someone he met while we were in Cooperstown (week #1, 2006) in Gainesville, FL this past weekend. He was excited about that. You provide a truly unique experience for the whole family (including grandmothers, aunts and cousins). Tripp's grandmothers enjoy our trips to Gainesville each year, and my sister and her children went with us to Cooperstown. My sister talks about what a truly ALL AMERICAN experience CDP is. Tripp has certainly had some experiences of a lifetime through BOB-NTT and it is not REALLY even about the baseball. He loves playing baseball, but he can do that in Troy. BOB-NTT to me is more about the WHOLE experience. How else could you meet people from all over the country and get to see them again and again!? What a great experience! Thanks again for all you do and for giving our family the opportunity to be a part of the BOB-NTT family.

Gloria Blackmon
Troy, AL

Dear Dr. Cosgrove:
Just a note to thank you and the guys so much for that great baseball instructional activity offered on September 30 in Schwenksville, PA. Noah had a great time and learned a lot. It was completely different than anything he has had before. We are looking forward to doing as many as we can this coming year, because I feel the instruction is exceptional and the well-rounded approach to teaching values/character is something rarely taught anywhere in baseball today. Thank you so much for going the extra mile and teaching these things. Too often, the dugout is a place of bad influence and negativism. Your BOB-NTT approach is just great all the way around and frees the kids up to learn and play ball the right way. Please let us know when your 2007 BOB-NTT instructional schedule is set...we will be there, and bring others along, too.

Thanks again--hope to see you soon.

Bonnie Searing
Collegeville, PA

Dear Coach Steve,

"First, I want to apologize for taking so long to write this note to you. Every day, I think that today is the day I am going to get it done, and somehow or another the day slips by me. So, this morning it is first on my to do list.

I truly appreciate the opportunity you gave not only to Austin, but to our whole family, by choosing us to be a part of the Boys of Baseball - National Travel Team and make the trip to Cooperstown Dreams Park June 16-23, 2006 with the 10 & unders. It was all such a wonderful experience. When we first received your call that Austin had made the team, we did more research into your organization. I read all the letters you had posted on the internet, and thought at that time if we only get half of what these people got out of it - we will come home winners. Well, we got a lot more than half. That trip changed our lives in so many ways. You know, I was always very proud of Austin and the way he showed respect to his family and to those around him. However, the amount of respect he has now is over the top and what is even better is how natural it seems to him. He sounds like I did growing up - answering with "Yes Mamm" and "Yes Sir". The one major difference is that he does it on his own, and we were expected to answer that way or else!

The other significant difference is not only what Austin brought away on the field, but what Eddy (his Dad) is able to take to the field. He has incorporated so many of your "teachings" and ways into his own coaching. Both Austin's and Houston's teams locally will benefit from you and your teachings through Eddy. We all have become better students, parents, siblings, and coaches because of you and our trip to Cooperstown.

For this I would like to simply say, "Thank you".

We are looking forward to being a part of your organization for a long time. We are telling everyone about our experience, as well as making them mark their calendars for when you come to Miami to do a clinic in December. (We would love to see you do one here in Broward County, if you would possibly work it into your schedule.)

Again, thank you, Coach Steve. I know that Eddy is planning on dropping you a line as well; however, I felt that I personally needed to let you know how you have affected our family."

God Bless,

Trisha Zaretsky and Family
Coral Springs, FL

Steve:
I was pleasantly surprised to see that you had won the 2005 NATC at Cooperstown Dreams Park. Gene "Boxcar" Blackwell and yourself are looking no worse for wear these days!

How is David "Big D" Blackwell doing? I would imagine he will be graduating this year from high school, as Donald is also. I lost touch of Gene several years ago; we were emailing back and forth every now and then. The time has just flown by...it seems like just yesterday we were there at Cooperstown Dreams Park trying to put some kind of practice together for the kids with our first game the following morning. Those were the days!

I just wanted to pass along a few things: some of them will make you laugh and some will make you cry. I just wanted to say again thank you for the wonderful experience we had in late August of 2000 there at Cooperstown Dreams Park, and in Florida that following December. We (Sue and I) speak of it often. I was just saying to Joey Davi's mother (Rene) a few days ago about how much fun it was there to see the kids play ball and make life-long friends (Joey, Gabe and Jordan are all going to play college ball there in California...Donald will be playing here in Virginia). Donald still remembers the sayings you used for motivation and confidence and how much you loved the way Roberto Clemente played the game. There is a sad note to this however; Sue, Donald's Mom, is dying of a brain tumor. She was diagnosed last October, 2005 with a Glioblastoma Grade 4, and is trying to last until June 17, which is Donald's HS graduation.

The Freelance Starr did a story on Donald. He set all new records this year for K's, innings pitched, and career wins. The season is finally over and so the end of Donald's high school baseball career. He finished the year with 145 strikeouts, 12 BB, and a ERA of 1.66 for 90 innings pitched. He hit .450 for the season, and finished with a a line drive single his last at bat...and, walked off the mound with a strikeout with the last batter he faced. Defensively, he made only 1 error all year, with 99 defensive chances. Although, it is far from a storybook ending he is getting nominated for Battlefield Player of the year as well as All-Battlefield District Pitcher, All-Region I Pitcher, and All-State Pitcher. We start American Legion this week, and I can't wait.

Thanks for the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM memories, friendships, and life-long learnings.

Roger Howell
King George, VA

Read Roger's follow up letter on our Prayer Alert page.

Steve:
"I just wanted to say thank you for allowing Josh the opportunity to try out for your BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM Cooperstown Dreams Park '06 and '07 teams yesterday in Pembroke Pines, FL. It was a pleasure meeting you. I just wanted to tell you how impressed I was with how you spoke with the boys today--you even knew each of their names at the end of the 2 hour try-out. I wish there were more coaches out there with your attitude towards baseball and life in general. I know that Josh had fun today. He was quoting you on the drive back home to Miami. He and I both particularly enjoyed the quotation, 'It's what you learn after you know it all that counts' (John Wooden). I hope Josh gets the opportunity to play for you and the BOB-NTT in the future."

Thanks, again.
Amy & Josh Roberts
Miami, FL

Coach Steve:
"I just wanted to let you know that the entire Jennings family had a great time in Gainesville, FL this past weekend (December 2-4, '05). I don't know of any other organization that has the abundance of quality individuals like the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. I saw people at our lodging I don't even know ( kids and adults alike), and when they saw the BOB-NTT logo on my shirt or hat, they would ask how our team was doing, what age group, etc. It is great to be part of a program like this. The kids, parents, and fellow coaches (Rob McCaa and Mike Hogan) on our team were just outstanding. Hopefully, all of the kids will realize just how fortunate they are to be a part of the BOB-NTT family. Thanks again for letting me coach a team and make more friends through the great game of baseball."

Jeff Jennings
Valley, AL

"We have arrived home from Gainesville, FL '05 safe and sound, as I hope everyone has. Once again, we had a wonderful time (as always) with our BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM "family". Our coaches did an excellent job making this weekend a great experience for C.J. I have never seen him smile during a baseball game...ever! Coaches Dwane, Andy, and Brian, you guys are awesome! I met some great new friends this weekend, and got to catch up with some old ones. It's always so hard to leave these events as the BOB-NTT connections I make with all of you special people will be with me for all of my life. What A Great Group! C.J. grows a little more each time he gets to spend time with the Boys of Baseball and, as his Mom, this is very special to me. As we all know, in today's society, it's pretty hard to find positive role models for our children, especially in sports. When we finally do find someone, we need to hold on fast! I know personally that the Boys of Baseball coaches: Steve, Jimmy, Dwane, Andy, Brian, and all the rest of you I got to know this past weekend (and prior occasions), are some of the best people I know...great job Steve! BOB-NTT is like a magnet drawing people together to bond and learn the very important lessons life has to offer...emphasizing that people are what are really important. Not the game, but what we do with it. This is what makes the difference: teamwork, friendships, positive thinking, and understanding what we are capable of (also what we aren't), and moving on with a confidence that will help all of us to be better people. I know that all of my family has gained valuable life lessons from all of the great people of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Thank you so much, Steve, for allowing my family to be a part of this special group. On that note, I wish a Happy Holiday season to everyone. Celebrate all the things good in your lives, and may God Bless you all. I hope to see everyone again."

Shelly Morrill (C.J.'s mom) and Family Sanford, FL

Steve:
"Well, I see John Starling beat me to the punch! What a great weekend, and another wonderful opportunity for all the guys to get together, play ball, and make some new friends! I certainly enjoyed getting to know fellow coaches Eric Regez (IL), Mike LeCroy (AL), and Lee Carpenter (AL), along with all the other players and coaches this time out. We also had the chance to visit with the Kentucky Browns, and several of the other Cooperstown Dreams Park '05 families (Wright, Hild, Evert, et al.), as well as some of the other guys from the Tennessee and Alabama BOB-NTT instructional activities. Even had a few minutes between games to visit with Coooperstown Dreams Park's Lou Presutti, which was an unexpected pleasure. All in all, just another great BOB-NTT weekend!

Of course, none of the guys like to come up short, so our boys had to endure that and come out with some lessons -- which they did. Most important of all, they kept fighting, never game up, they supported each other, and there was never a negative word during the heat of those contests. They held tough with Santa Fe, and played a very respectable game against a very good team. We had a good squad, and alot of great kids and families were represented. Burnett, Factor, Carpenter, Gorham (s), Wheeler, Regez, LeCroy, and Starling -- what a fine group!! In our final meeting, we reminded these guys to keep their heads up, encouraged them to keep working to improve on the areas that they were able to identify this weekend, and to just keep after it so we can get back down there next December and do it again.

I can say on behalf of the Tennessee crowd, that we were all very proud and pleased to be associated with BOB-NTT this weekend, and the boys came away with alot more than they had going in. Only with the BOB-NTT would they have had the opportunity to learn these lessons, having the unconditional support of every coach, parent, family and fellow player every step of the way. They will be better people, and better players, for it.

Thanks again, Steve, for the great privilege of being associated with BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM!"

Joe Wheeler
Nashville, TN

Steve:
"Just a quick thank you for providing an avenue for my son, Chase, to participate in your fine organization, the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. We both really enjoyed the weekend in Gainesville, FL. I truly appreciate your sincere and genuine approach to the game of baseball and to the players in your program. Your positive energy and inspirational messages are valuable both to the young people that play and the parents who attend.

Everyone in the Troy University baseball program looks forward to seeing you in Auburn, February 21, '06 at Plainsman Park for the annual Auburn vs. Troy matchup. Remember, keep the heckling to a minimum that day!"

Happy Holidays!

Mark Smartt
Assistant Baseball Coach

Steve:
"I just wanted to thank you for including Ivey, Oakley, and me in your plans for the Gainesville '05 tournament. I just got home and was relating to Tena the wonderful boys and families in the 10 year old group. Her response was classic, "sounds like a typical BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM experience". This Gainesville event is better than a family reunion -- not only do you get to visit with old friends (for us, the Carpenters, McCaas, Jennings, Hogans, Browns, Wrights, Dominguez, Elkows, BIG Caleb, Zack Morgan, and so on), but you meet a whole new group as well (Smartt, Blackmon, Herron, Christman, Stadnycki, Hild, Heilemann, Evert, LeCroy, Regez -- I''m sure I left a few out). I know a lot of planning, preparation, and hard work goes into these events on your part. Thanks for making it fun and special for each player and each family.

Look forward to seeing you in Auburn soon...thanks."

John Starling
Nashville, TN

Dear Steve,
"I would like to take this time to extend the sincerest of thanks to you for allowing our son, AJ, to be a member of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM at Cooperstown Dreams Park (August 19-26, 2005), as well as other recent venues. I can't even begin to explain what it has meant to Jackie and me to witness such memorable experiences, experiences that only an organization like the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM could provide. Under the backdrop of the Catskill Mountains, Cooperstown Dreams Park provided a place where baseball teams from all over the country and/or globe came together for a week of absolutely fabulous baseball competition. Well beyond the head-to-head competition between the teams, the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM provided our son, the families, and many others the opportunity to come together and develop long lasting relationships that will never be forgotten.

The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM founding principles of teamwork, personal accountability, respect of family, teammates, adults, peers, and coaches (also, teeth brushing!) overarch the game baseball. These principles are making countless young adults better sons, daughters, and friends right now, but will shortly make them enormously better adults. It is obvious that the mission you created 10 years ago has been successful because of all of the hearts that you and your coaches have touched and continue to touch.

If you ever want to gauge your remarkable success, just look into the eyes of the young men, women, and families you and your coaches' hug or shake hands with at the end of your numerous schools or tournaments. I'll tell you from experience that you will see that the players are all trying, some better than others, to disguise how upset they are because they feel that something is ending. They have trouble closing a relationship they built with a coach or coaches, they will miss the camaraderie and friendships that were quickly assembled and solidified on and off the fields, they will miss the game of baseball that brought them together as a team, if just for one week or weekend, and most importantly the lessons that you are imbedding in every message you deliver before the game, in the dugout, in between innings when you hug them and pat them on their heads, and after the game when you reflect on why they are a success as a person, not only a player.

Speaking for my family and I'm sure many others, we are extremely grateful for the time we have spent with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM, the friendships that have been developed between the players and the families and we look forward to continuing the relationship for as long as possible."

Sincerely,
Jeff and Jackie Koscelansky
East Norriton, PA

Dear Coach Steve:
"Thank you, Elliot, Mike, Rob, and all those who help out for giving our son, Jake, yet another one of the greatest days of his life yesterday (Boston/Hingham, MA, September 10, 2005). All of your hard work and enthusiasm certainly pays off when the memories of baseball and life lessons given at each one of these BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM Instructional Activities are taken with our children for the rest of their lives. You certainly know how to get the best out of our kids by motivating them to always work hard to reach their goals. Even though we all have strengths and weaknesses, it is our strengths that will take us as far as our dreams will allow us to go. Our children know that when they are not working, someone else is. They know that there is a special kind of training involved in order to be able to play baseball at a high level. By always trying to improve in baseball and in all areas (school work included), good things will come from it. Being a good person and having strong family values counts a whole bunch. You and your fine fellow instructors/coaches provide our children with so much more than just baseball fundamentals. Anyone who is fortunate enough to attend even one of the BOB-NTT instructional events is going to learn the importance of how to be a good listener, how to play the game the right way, the importance of being a good person, and the value of having a good work ethic. You are not only helping to train baseball players, but you are providing lessons that will take our children through life to hopefully become quality role models by their own behavior and positive outlook on life. Thank you so much for yesterday, but for so much more than just the day. Thank you for EVERYTHING you do for all of the children who come to your BOB-NTT activities. We appreciate and admire you and what you stand for a great deal. The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM is the most spectacular organization of all time. We look forward to seeing you again very soon. The next time, the whole family will come...even if Nicole does have a soccer game planned!"
Very truly yours,

Kimberly & Mark Faraci
Long Island, NY

Steve:
"Congratulations on the 2005 NATC Championship at Cooperstown Dreams Park! You have improved the quality of life through the great game of baseball. Out of all the programs in the country, no one does it better than you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Winning the NATC is just the output of all you do for others."

Your biggest fan,
Paul "Bucket" Benzer, Fellow BOB-NTT Coach
Pleasanton, CA

Dear Steve:
"Just a note to again thank you for making the trip of my grandson's team to the recent Cooperstown Dreams Park tournament (August 27-September 3, 2004) so meaningful. I had twin grandsons playing on the Plymouth-Wayzata Trojans team (MN), and during our game with your team, I ran the scoreboard from above your dugout. As such, I could see and hear everything that was going on during the game with you and your BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. What a priviledge! To see and hear someone coach with your enthusiasm, constantly correcting, but always in a positive way, was a real treat for me. I played baseball ever since I was a kid, including high school, college, and even some summer semi-pro, so I knew when things should have/could have been done differently. But, to watch and hear how you and your fellow coaches operate with the kids was really great. And, after the game was over, and you invited both teams to home plate (included me, too...thank you!) for the BOB-NTT "Moment of Appreciation", and for the things you said, you MADE the whole experience of Cooperstown Dreams Park for our team.

I wear my Cooperstown Dreams Park baseball cap with pride, and have two pins on the bill: one for the Plymouth/Wayzata team, and the other one for the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM that you gave to me. Thanks again for showing everyone how the game of baseball can be...should be... played by both the players and coaches."

Your new friend through baseball,

Rowan Belknap
Westcliffe, CO and Austin, TX

Dear Steve:

Well, what can we say! Once again, another GREAT experience with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Eric had such a fantastic time, as we all did! The families and teammates were all great people...we loved seeing the families we already were familiar with and getting to know them better, as well as meeting new ones. Cooperstown Dreams Park is a wonderful place, and words cannot even describe. Lou Presutti and his family have done great things and are great people. Not only Cooperstown Dreams Park, but the sky and the mountains in the background were just breath-taking... a true gift from God.

Jimmy, Coleman, Rob, and Chuck were without a doubt SUPERB! It was great to see Rob McCaa and Chuck Russell again and interact with them on a more personal level. We are sure we do not have to tell you what wonderful assets they are to BOB-NTT. We would put our son in their hands a million times over! Thank you for putting Coach Rob and Coach Chuck in front of our son.

Now, for the other two... Jimmy Kolaitis and Coleman Cosgrove. we know you don't have all day, so here are the nuts and bolts! FANTASTIC YOUNG MEN! Not often do you find men their young age who truly and unselfishly love children and (children's) desire for baseball, while fulfilling their own passion for the game. Jimmy's words of encouragement and his "Never give up attitude" is far more superior than 10 men his age. He always found just the right words to say to the boys and made each one feel special. When we asked Eric to describe Coach Jimmy in one word, his answer, without hesitation, was... "exciting". We felt Jimmy had a lot of faith in our son, by playing him in so many different positions and allowing him to participate in the Golden Arm Competition, and with that making it an exciting experience for him. Thank you for putting Coach Jimmy in front of our son. When we asked Eric to give me one word to describe Coleman, again, without hesitation, was... "funny". He loved Coleman's teasing and jokes, and we must admit we loved his first base coaching actions. Eric really took to Coleman...Eric always seemed to be by his side, looking up to him. During one team meeting Coleman mentioned how Eric and he were talking, and how he asked Eric what he had learned so far. Eric's first reply was "hug the base line", and Coleman said, "No..I mean about yourself". Eric's reply then was, "Never give up". These are true words to live by and we're glad he got that lesson with Coleman during this Cooperstown Dreams Park week. It takes a special coach to keep the game of baseball funny...so many coaches forget that these are small children trying to learn the most intelligent sport we have, and if the children are not having fun at what they are doing, they are not going to do well...and, likely going to quit. Thank you for putting Coach Coleman in front of our son.

THANK YOU, STEVE, AND ALL THE COACHES, FOR MAKING OUR SON'S (and all the other boys') 2004 COOPERSTOWN DREAMS PARK EXPERIENCE EXCITING AND FUNNY!

We hope we continue to have many more opportunities like this one with the BOB-NTT. We love your organization and what it stands for...as much as Eric loves the game of baseball.

Looking forward to seeing you in the fall at the Annapolis, MD baseball instructional weekend. We hope you and your family have wonderful and safe summer.

Eric and Julie Willey
Seaford, DE

Dear Steve:
"The more I look at the pictures I took of Dougie at the recent Annapolis school (March 20, 2004), the more I come to love your organization. Dougie (age 4, December, 2003) loves the game of baseball and watching his "big cousin", Eric, play.
We want to give him every opportunity to play the wonderful game of baseball. Seeing him yesterday interacting with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM was profounding to us! The way the instructors/coaches took to him--helping him and teaching him the basics and not ignoring him because he is so young, small, and not as skilled--truly demonstrates the word "COACH". As far as all of the other boys in the school go---have you ever seen such good kids? Not one of them ever got frustrated with Dougie, or acted like he was in the way. In fact, just the opposite happened...they all took time to help him all that they could. Your organization has once again proven to us many positive things. The experiences we have encountered everytime we are with you and with the BOB-NTT will never be forgotten. You are correct when you say your program is about meeting good people, creating great friendships, and lasting memories through the game of baseball. Once again, thank you for all you do, you truly are a fantastic man and COACH...so are all others whom you put in front of the kids and teams!"

Julie Willey
Seaford, DE

Steve:
"I very much enjoyed meeting you and having Matt participate in the 10 year old tournament in Gainesville, FL, which was a very positive experience. I tell you this, if you put these boys together for a couple weeks, I think they win that tournament! Being that this was the first tournament these boys ever played together, I was impressed with their spirit and abilities. I suppose you've seen and heard all this before, that as the boys grow older they tend to gel and improve together, even if they live far apart and do not play together regularly. I will gladly bring other quality players and families to you and to the BOB-NTT organization the next time you hold an instructional activity in Schwenksville, PA, and elsewhere. Thanks again for the experience and the opportunity to be involved with BOB-NTT."

All the best,
Jeff Dale
Collegeville, PA

Steve:
"Ryan really liked seeing you yesterday at the baseball school in Luverne, Alabama. I thought it was pretty cool to seeing you bouncing around "barking baseball with a smile"! Your passion for the game and your love of children are so apparent. Sharon and I really appreciate you and the positive influences both you and your BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM organization have had, and will continue to have, on Ryan. You and the BOB-NTT will continue to influence him in his decisions and actions long after his playing days are over."

Thank you so much,
Bill Pinkham
Montgomery, AL

Steve:
"The six-hour drive from Gainesville, FL to Montgomery, AL gave me time to reflect on this past weekend. First of all, thank you for allowing Ryan and our family to be a part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. I am so appreciative of you...your moral character, enthusiasm for life, love of the game of baseball, and the foresight, initiative, and perseverance to develop and offer a program like the BOB-NTT.

To me, the attraction to the BOB-NTT is that you have the integrity and courage to practice what you preach. Wins and losses are secondary to the development of the players' character and self-esteem. No one person in greater than the team. A team is greater than the sum of the individuals. You use baseball as a tool to teach the boys "life lessons" so they will grow to become responsible men of integrity, honor, and perseverance.

I played baseball through high school and have watched my two boys, now 14 and 11, play ball starting at age five. Almost without exception, at the beginning of each year, the coach says many of the same things that you do, but when the season starts or by the time playoffs begin, their actions are in conflict with their words. Wins and losses become more important than teaching the players "life lessons".

You like short sayings, so I'll leave you with this, "A good statue requires a good mold." Thank you for your time, interest, energy, and resources in helping to mold my son, and other young people. Because of people like you and programs like the BOB-NTT, the world will continue to be a better place...indeed, you will leave this world in a better place than you found it."

God bless.
Bill Pinkham
Montgomery, AL

Steve:
"Jesse is attending Bucknell on a $25,000 plus yearly scholarship, predicated on his playing baseball. He made the squad this fall as a pitcher, but I'm sure he'll see some hitting time from the left side.

Playing for the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM was the highlight of Jesse's (and my family's) baseball memories to date. You inspired and motivated him to work harder and to excel...to always keep improving. Thanks for all you did for Jesse and the Retzlaff Family."

All the best,
Heinz Retzlaff
Laurel, DE

Steve:
"I will say that I got a recharge of energy from our experience with you this past September (Coaches Clinic and Baseball School & Day of Instruction), in our Boston/Hingham, MA area...and in no small part, that recharge and your demonstration of what could happen in a positive fashion, contributed to my leading the effort to bring all of these opportunities to the young baseball players, families, and coaches of my town. Thanks for the BOB-NTT inspiration. While I know you receive countless notes of appreciation from players, parents, and coaches, please consider my note as a genuine "thank you" from an entire community-based baseball program. Let's keep in touch, and we look forward to hosting the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM's instructional activities each spring and fall."

Sincerely,
Elliott Sherman
Hingham, MA

Steve:
"Great job with the kids on Saturday (September 6, 2003) at your first Boston/Hingham, MA baseball instructional activity! I must admit that your motivational talk at the end brought a tear to my eye as I thought about the "treasure" that we have in our David, and the commitment that my wife and I have made to him and to our 14 year old daughter, Laura. I hope that my entire family has the opportunity to meet you in the near future.
Some feedback:
David was reviewing the mechanics of fielding a ball with his sister Saturday night under the lights in our backyard...he has also talked about leg-strengthening exercises during television commercials...one of the parents stated that he would gladly be willing to spend $100 for the information and the messages that were presented during the school...personally, I have an interest in "self-improvement" books and tapes, and can say with experience that you are one of the best.
Thanks again for sharing your wisdom and your baseball (and life!) experiences with the kids, families, and coaches."

Mike Hogan
Boston/Hingham, MA

Dear Steve:
"I just wanted to drop you a note and again tell you how impressive your team was last week at the Cooperstown Dreams Park Invitational (week 10, 2003). I enjoyed our brief conversation and am looking forward to having your baseball instruction come to Valparaiso, IN in the near future. I would also like to know if there are any openings for my 12 year old son in your Gainesville, FL tournaments. I really believe after watching you and your fine staff coach and teach those fine young men [...and lady (Dominique Dinner!)] last week, you could really have a positive effect on my son. He's a good young man and just needs to be coached by someone who is not his dad, or a friend's dad. I was most impressed with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM player attitudes and manners. This trip was a huge wake-up call to me and my relationship with my boys going forward in the coming years."

Peter Dineen, Coach
Valparaiso Patriots Baseball Club
Valparaiso, IN

Steve:
"It was a pleasure to meet you at Cooperstown Dreams Park, August 15-22, 2003. It was my first trip up there and I enjoyed umpiring, along with meeting all the wonderful people. I have been umpiring baseball for over 25 years, and after seeing many coaches during that time, I have to say that I was really impressed with you, your fellow coaches (Gil Ruiz, Jody Hillyer, Bill Scott, and Michael Guy), along with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM philosophy and coaching style. I wish many more coaches and programs demonstrated your style and attitude, as I know what positive and lasting effects those have with players, families, and teams. I hope to see you again one day, and wish you continued success and the best in developing all those young players and their families through the game of baseball."

God Bless,
Wayne Jewell, Umpire
Hershey, PA

Hi Coach Steve:
"It was a pleasure for my family to meet you at Cooperstown Dream Park (July 4-11, 2003). Arnaldo is still very excited about his experience. It was good to learn that you share and preach the same values that we have. Although, I was very nervous the first day to leave Arnaldo with strangers, after the first night meeting, I left with a peace of mind...that peace and comfort continued to flourish throughout our week. As I mentioned to you during the championship game, this opportunity meant a lot to Arnaldo, to me, and to my family. I hope that this is the beginning of a lasting and strong friendship...in baseball and in life!"

Good luck and best regards,
Alevil Rincones
Pembroke Pines, FL

Steve,
"What a great experience Lou Presutti and his family have created with Cooperstown Dreams Park! And with it, you've done a fine job of making exciting and meaningful opportunities available to kids and families to play baseball and formulate lasting friendships. Additionally, the BIG PLUS's include the clubhouse experiences ("essences", as we called them!), and the positive life lessons that were emphasized throughout our team time together. Please accept our (Albita, Tiger & my) deepest appreciation for your extraordinary efforts as coach and mentor of young people, and for our ever-broadening baseball family. We're glad to be a part of it!
Best wishes for continued success for the BOB-NTT on all the ballfields of life."

Sincerely,
Mike "Skipper" Latimer
Miami, FL

Coach Steve,
"I've told you many times how much you, your family, and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM mean to the Jinks Family. We will be traveling to Natchitoches, LA on February 14th to watch Clark play in his first college game (for Jacksonville State University). He is doing very well, and it seems as if he will pitch on a regular basis. I can't help but to reflect back on the past seven years (1996-present), and on all of the great opportunities we had participating in your program. I know that the experience he received has helped him reach his goal of playing at the collegiate level. Not only the games, but the special fellowship with other families and creating new friendships has been very rewarding. We will continue to recommend you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM to families who love the game of baseball.
Thanks again for your friendship and the opportunities you have provided for our family."

Terry, Patti, Clark, and Holly Jinks
Childersburg, AL

Dear Steve,
"It is always a pleasure to participate in the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM "family" tournaments. You are a very special positive influence in our young man's life. We are all looking forward to seeing you soon in Gainesville, Florida."

Gregory Sr. and Sandra DeSantis
Bridgewater, NJ

Coach Steve:
I wanted to thank you once again for letting me play with, and be a part of, the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. You have seen me play (in a lot of places---Cooperstown Dreams Park...Aurelia, IA...Panama City Beach, FL...Gainesville, FL...and, Peoria/Surprise, AZ) since I was a little boy, age 9, and about 5 feet tall. Now, I am growing to be a man (17 years old, and over 6 feet tall). I hope you have enjoyed watching me grow and become a better baseball player. I know I have enjoyed watching the BOB-NTT grow along with me. I carry with me many of the things that you have said to me over the years. I work hard at baseball and practice for hours everyday.

Coach, you have told me, "Don't let anyone steal your dreams!"...so many people have tried, but, I always remember your words, and then I work harder. [I also wanted to let you know that last night I threw a perfect game for my high school summer team]. Some day, I will be a major league baseball player...this is my dream. And, I thank you for being an important part of my dream.

Gregory Blaze DeSantis
Bridgewater, NJ

Coach Steve,
"Thank you once again for the opportunity to play baseball. You will never know how much it means to me. I know that without you I would never have had the chance to play with this kind of competition. I need to see where I am at and what I have to do to improve. My dream has been to be a ball player ever since I was born. I love baseball. Over the years I feel like you have become my friend, and I can talk to you and tell you how I feel. I have a lot of respect for you and what you do for all the kids."

Gregory Blaze DeSantis
Bridgewater, NJ

Dear Dr. Cosgrove,
"I wanted to show my appreciation to you for what you have done. You have given me an opportunity to develop my baseball skills, physically and mentally...and I was placed in a great environment to grow spiritually. You just do not know how much that means to me and my parents. I plan to continue to be involved with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM in the future. I had a great learning experience in Tennessee, and I enjoyed it a lot. Who wouldn't enjoy playing baseball?! Thanks again, and good luck to you and your family. God bless."

Jon Eiland
Auburn, AL

Richard Hevier, 13
Syracuse, NY

Dear Steve,
"I will try my best to put into words my very positive impression of you, your organization, and what your efforts are doing for young adults through the vehicle of baseball. You coached my son, Johnny, in the final 2002 week at Cooperstown Dream Park. This experience has left a lasting impression on my son and on our family.

As I saw my son kneeling in prayer with his eyes closed and his hat across his chest before and after each game, I knew you were attempting to teach him a lot more than just how to better his baseball skills. You taught him how to represent a fine organization, his family, and himself, and what those responsibilities entail. You also taught him that there is Someone with far greater importance than anything else that was happening. You, Steve, gave the whole experience meaning. It was so much easier to bond with the other families because of the significance that you promoted and gave to the week.

Thank you so much for the respect you showed to my son and family, and for a tremendous week of relationships. These early developmental years are so important, and parents are very careful about the influences they expose their children to. In this day and age of competitive baseball, egos, and win-at-any-cost attitudes, you were a breath of fresh air. I hope that you will continue to include us in other BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM experiences in the future...keep up the great work!"

John DePaola
Bowie, MD

Steve,
"Again, I want to thank you for taking your time to share your knowledge and love of baseball with the Brewer family. We (Jordan, Alesia, Rita, and myself) always learn more each time we attend your schools/tournaments, and we also have a great time! The BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM family continues to grow in our area and throughout the country because of your passion to teach the game of baseball in a positive, wholesome, and fun way to the players and coaches, as well as to the families. Being a part of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM family has allowed Jordan and our entire family to meet other great baseball families and friends throughout the country...we treasure those friendships, as well as yours."

Eddie Brewer and Family
Bowie, MD

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I just wanted to write and tell you again how awesome Cooperstown Dreams Park was and how much fun I had with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Last week was probably the best time I've ever had in my entire life. Thanks for including me and I really enjoyed being a part of the team. You are a really good coach and I wanted to thank you for giving me the opportunity to play for you. I will never forget it. My dad and I are making plans to go back in August...I start working out again tomorrow to get ready for another great time in Cooperstown!

Thanks again coach."

Briggs Smotherman
Valdosta, GA

Dear Coach,
"Once again, I really do appreciate the opportunity that you and the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM have given me the last two years. It means more to me than anything. I cannot even explain in words what our friendship has meant. You and your family are more than just friends, y'all are more like another family to me, and that means a lot. Thank you very much for all you have done."

Jimmy Kolaitis, Coach
Auburn, AL

Steve,
"We have been meaning to write you...Todd and Matthew had a great time at the USA BASEBALL Junior Olympic Championships recently conducted in Tucson, AZ. It was an experience that we are so glad we were allowed to be a part of. Thank you so much for everything. We hope to participate in more tournaments. Thanks again!"

Lorrie Schlachter
Lena, IL

Dear Steve,
"Its been a whirlwind couple of weeks, but Chris is back safe and sound, proudly wearing the Gold! It was the experience of a lifetime for him, not only from the baseball perspective having the opportunity to play with and against some of the best players on the planet, but also culturally and spiritually as well. We will always be sincerely grateful for the opportunity that the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM has given Chris."

Wally Lubanski
Schwenksville, PA

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I want to thank you for inviting me to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM at Cooperstown Dreams Park. It was great to make new friends and play with different kids. You taught me a lot of new baseball skills and you also taught me things about life. I will always remember the things I learned from you. I told my parents that I wished you could be my coach all the time. Your coaching made baseball even more fun."

Jeff Adamson
Winter Springs, FL

Dear Steve,
"We wanted to tell you how much Ryan enjoyed Cooperstown Dreams Park. Sure, winning games is great, good coaches are a major benefit, playing baseball is a joy to a 12 year old, but nothing can hold a candle to meeting quality kids, gaining new teammates, and spending time with those new teammates in the Cooperstown atmosphere...what tremendous learning opportunities!"

Jeff and Vicki Ebner
Sinking Spring, PA

Coach Cosgrove,
"You told me before Cooperstown that this would be one of the most memorable times in my life. I must admit, you were right! I've learned a lot from your coaching. I'm looking forward to future tournaments. Thanks for everything!"

Chandler Parsons
Orlando, FL

Steve,
"I want to personally thank you for the wonderful instructional baseball school which you recently held in Little Rock at Lamar Porter Field. I especially loved your teaching approach, particularly how you emphasized, and then re-emphasized, the fundamentals. You broke the fundamentals down into basic steps which are easy to remember and practice...you taught the kids not just the "how to", but also the "why." I loved your teaching, and applaud you for everything you bring to your camps. I appreciate the things you emphasized last week to all of the young men (including the 10 year-old who came with his dad all the way from Michigan to Arkansas!). Your comments about the basics (character, attitude, hustle, hard work, being a good student in school), as well as the game of baseball, respecting others, always doing your best....I could go on and on. Believe me, your words did not fall on deaf ears! Thank you so much for everything you taught and said, not only to the young players, but also to the parents."

Liles M. Henry
Little Rock, AR

Players/Families--2001 Cooperstown 10's,
"I wanted to write to each of you to say thank you for participating with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM and for providing me with lots of fun moments and excitement to always remember. One thing that stands out with our program is we have a great bunch of kids with super families who create lasting friendships through the great game of baseball. My older boy Charlie will be playing with the 12 and under team next week in Cooperstown and will meet up with many of the kids he played with last summer in Tarkio, Mo. Personally, I think that is the best part of being affiliated with Steve's organization, the memories and friendships will last a lifetime... Each of you have a special talent and I encourage you to work hard to keep improving your skills. Good things come from setting goals and working to achieve them, not just in baseball but in everything you do. Keep with the program! It only gets better."

Charlie Rizzo
Annapolis, MD

Dear Steve,
"I hope that all is going well with you and your family. It is such a busy time of the year for everyone as baseball reaches the mid season point and school comes to an end that I wanted to take the time to say hello. Monday I received a phone call from two local/area coaches inquiring about 13 year old baseball. They have come to the conclusion that the philosophy that I use in coaching (The Boys of Baseball Philosophy) which is to teach and have fun is better that what they have been associated with. To make a long story short, I guess that I will be coaching both their players/sons next year along with basically whom ever I want in the Nashville area because my team has adopted the philosophy that you established. We are all looking forward to seeing you in Cooperstown this year.

Bryan Gobbell
Nashville, TN

Dear Coach Steve,
"I would like to thank you for inviting me to Cooperstown Dreams Park... twice! I will never forget the experiences and memories of playing baseball at Cooperstown, and the pictures in my mind.

Thanks you for teaching me all about the fundamentals of baseball. I especially liked how you taught me to have quick feet and the pivot to second base on a double play. I really think I will need these skills as I continue to play baseball. I hope we will see each other again in the not-too-distant future. I will always remember what you taught me...STAY BALANCED!"

Sincerely,
Corey Custer
Syracuse, NY

Dear Coach Steve:
"Thank you for giving us the opportunity to let Miguel come to Cooperstown to play baseball with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. There are no words that would describe how thankful we are to have met you. ... you were FIRST CLASS. You have taken your time to be with these kids. You have taught them more than baseball... Steve, keep up the good work with these boys. Miguel has had good coaches before, but we think you are exceptional. We love the way you work with him and the rest of the team."

Miguel and Vidal Morel
Ocala, FL

Dear Steve,
"We just got your mailing... After three great summer campaigns, Blake will be too old by this summer! He turns 19 in June. At any rate, it was a great run, and we both appreciate all that the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM had to offer him.
Blake accepted a scholarship offer to play for Duke next year... He's very happy to have the opportunity to continue his baseball career there.
Thanks for all you and fellow coaches have done to help his baseball career along. Look for him in the Duke boxscores in years to come!"

Richard H. Walker
La Jolla, CA

Dear Steve:
"I am really proud that my nephew, Matt Landis (Lawrenceville, GA), has had the opportunity to play with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM over the past couple of years, and hope that he will be able to schedule other trips with your organization in the future.

Matt has, over the years, had the opportunity to play with many teams... the structure, class, and discipline that you/your coaches instill in the boys are by far the best of any.

I hope that future baseball seasons continue to be successful for you and your teams."

Amy Landis
Pell City, AL

Steve,
"On the way home from a baseball game last night; Cooper says to me, "We are going to have fun Saturday."
I said, "Why do you say that?"
Cooper said, "Steve Cosgrove makes baseball SO MUCH FUN!"
We sure had a great time this weekend down in Gainesville. It was real nice to finally put a face with a name. I do want to take a moment to tell you what a pleasure it has been to work with Coach John Wirnsberger. He really knows a lot about baseball, and he is also a great person. Cooper really looks up to him. Cooper has also spoke of you several times since this weekend. You really made an impression on him. I also want let you know if there is any way I can help you, please feel free to drop me a line. Again, thanks for a great weekend."

Carey Mosely
Montgomery, AL

Coach Cosgrove,
"I signed a letter of commitment yesterday (11/10/00) with Columbus State University. CSU has one of the top Division II programs in the country. Their facilities are first class. I just wanted to thank you for helping me realize my dream of playing college baseball. My first trip with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM was to Crystal Lake, Illinois, for the CABA World Series when I was 15 years old. In that tournament we finished third out of sixty-four teams. Since then I have traveled to Arizona, to Florida several times, to Tennessee several times, and also played in Auburn several times because of Boys of Baseball and Steve Cosgrove. Please pass along my sincere thanks to Coaches Rich Luppino, Phillip Landers, Gary Butler, Terry Jinks, and others who have had an impact on my life. The friends and experiences will last a lifetime. The competition was excellent and I am a better player and person today because of the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Thanks again and God Bless."

Brad Hightower
Phenix City, AL

Steve,
"I would like to let you know that after being involved with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM for one year, I can say with all honesty that your organization does a great job of mixing baseball, families, and fun!! It is only by the grace of God that I found your organization while reading a baseball magazine. My whole family has benefited from Cole playing for the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM. Kathleen (age 6) and Will (age 8) asked Anne yesterday if we could go back to Tarkio for our family vacation next year. They said that they had more fun in Tarkio, MO with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM than they did at Disney World!
It is not only an honor to have Cole play on one of your teams, but the opportunity to coach such a great group of players was wonderful.

Stay Focused,"

Bryan Gobbell
Nashville, TN

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"I had fun playing in Florida last weekend. It was great to play with good players from other states. You really make playing baseball so much fun."

Cole Gobbell
Nashville, TN

Steve,
"We are writing to thank you for all you do... not only for Brendan, but for all the lives you touch, meaning parents, too. God has given you a great gift and your reward will be great also. We appreciate your firmness and positive attitude towards the team. You are a good example in front of the boys.
We have learned over the years that it takes more then mom and dad to raise children... grandparents, aunts, and uncles are usually around and do have an impact. But when God moves you away from the family core, you have to find good people with good values and morals to let your children associate with. We thank God that He allowed our paths to cross."

Deborah and Jerry Murphy
Chattanooga, TN

Steve,
"It was a real pleasure for my son to play and myself to coach this past weekend for the Boys of Baseball 10 & under team in Gainesville, Florida. You have a class organization and seem to really be able to motivate and communicate with kids. You could really tell a difference in their spirits when you were at our games. Michael will continue to play and I to coach, so that we can both represent the Boys of Baseball better in the future. I look forward to attending your coaches clinic, and I know that Michael is looking forward to the camp. Feel free to call on me if I can be of any assistance to you or to the Boys of Baseball."

Mike McDaniel
Northport, AL

Steve,
"Thank you again for the opportunity for Daniel to play for the Boys of Baseball at Cooperstown. This has been the most rewarding baseball experience he has ever had. He learned so much, about baseball and life, from you, the other coaches, the players, and other teams. He (and I) are very proud of our association with you and the Boys of Baseball. Daniel treasures all of his Boys of Baseball uniforms, pullovers, caps, pins, and other items and wears them every opportunity. The enthusiasm you have for the game and the players, your preparation for the game and demeanor on the field, and your focus on the complete player - his skills and his behavior and character - make you a remarkable and exceptional coach. Your selection of players with skill and character, and your emphasis that the Boys of Baseball be well-represented by each player on and off the field, make the team competitive and lets the players identify with a unique and highly respected organization within which he can develop lasting friendships."

Jack Miller
Louisville, KY

"Thank you for teaching me the proper way to lead off base. Thanks for teaching me some of the fundamental tips of playing infield and outfield."
Don't forget us,

Daniel Cox
Piedmont, SC

"Thank you for all the new stuff you have taught me. Thank you for letting me play, even though you have never seen me."

David Cox
Piedmont, SC

"...just wanted to thank you one more time for all the help you have given Dustain. ...we feel that a major part of his baseball success is due to the exposure he received with the Boys of Baseball - National Travel Team... It is people like yourself that we give credit to for spending time with young people. Keep up the good work."

Kathy & Garnett Vance
Glasgow, KY
Parents of Dustain Vance,
Player at W. Kentucky University

"Just a note to say thanks for the past weekend. Jeff and I had a great father-son drive down to Panama City Beach, FL... Steve, you do a great job with the boys, and I look forward to next year!"

Rusty Parker
Auburn, AL

"I would like to thank you for inviting me to play on your baseball team in Florida this fall. It was sure a worthwhile experience. I got a chance to make friends from many different places. ... None of this would have been possible without you. The time I spent in Florida was one that I will never forget."
Thanks again,

Evan Lipcaman
Griggsville, IL

"Thanks a lot, Steve. I really appreciated all that you did for me. You are a good friend."

Brian Specht, SS
Colorado Springs, CO
Currently playing with
the Anaheim Angels, and
ranked by rivals.com - Top 100

Dear Coach Cosgrove,
"Thanks for all your help at Cooperstown! I had a great time playing for you and I learned a lot. I just started playing fall baseball(1997), and had a game-winning double in our first game!"
See you soon,

Chris Lubanski
Schwenksville, PA

Steve:
"Just wanted to say "Thanks" for a great week at Cooperstown Dreams Park, July 8-15, 2005. Everyone had a great time, and we're looking forward to playing with the BOYS OF BASEBALL - NATIONAL TRAVEL TEAM again. We'll stay in touch for future BOB-NTT instructional activities and tournament opportunities. I would have written sooner, but I'm just now getting my PC back after a lightning strike. Thank you and your fellow coaches (Jimmy, Lewis, and DeWayne) again for marvelous memories for our son, Stephen, and for our entire family. We would do it again, if he could stay 12 years old forever!"