My Favorite Recipes: Meet the 2018 Colfax Senior League Fast-Pitch Softball Team

There are 14 teams that make up the Girls Fast-pitch Sr. Softball league in the Pullman Parks and Recreation Youth League. The 2018 Sr. Colfax team consists of 17 players. They are coached by Pete Koerner and Taylor Nelson, who volunteer their time and expertise to share their passion and love for the game. Coach Koerner can often be heard teaching the girls life lessons from the sideline about endurance, attitude and respect for their team members and other teams in the league.

According to Teamsideline.com, the Colfax team's standings are number one in the league as of the beginning of this week. This week, the 14 teams will battle it out in their last games that lead up to the playoffs. The playoffs will be in Pullman June 22 and 23.

According to Forbes.com (March 21, 2018,) "team sports not only help you get into shape and stay that way, but also are a great way to connect with people from different backgrounds and become part of a larger community."

Locally, Mrs. Craig Gilchrist, whose husband has been involved with coaching competitive team sports for several years, said that, "My children have become better listeners, helpers and overall people due to team sports. They are aggressive yet respectful players and more thoughtful, confident human beings by not being coddled -- they understand defeat and enjoy their triumphs and successes by always trying their best and learning from their losses." She continued, "A hug and pat on the back goes a long way as well as 'dry those eyes and get back out there'. She also said that, "As parents, it is our job to pick our battles and set the example of what can and should be said/done from the sidelines. Encouragement to all players, not just our own children, has tremendous power to lift a team."

In an article entitled "Tips on Being the Best Sport Parent" on TeamSnap.com, it states that it is important to remember that "The game is the opportunity for our players to test out their skills. They should be taking risks. They should be making mistakes at times. Making mistakes is part of the learning and development process. If parents are supporting the players through taking risks and making mistakes, it will give the players the confidence to want to continue trying until they experience success."

Renee Bronson, a parent who has been involved in competitive sports for years, stated "My son has learned the importance of team and teamwork through sports. He understands that good sportsmanship is more important than winning." With this in mind, Coach Koerner and his team send best wishes out to all of the teams in the league for a safe, fun and exciting tournament with the reminder, "Do your best. Winning isn't everything, but it sure is fun!"

It can be an especially demanding time for players, family members and coaching staff. This week we will be featuring some recipes that can be prepared ahead of time and taken to sporting events.

Teresa Tully Sanchez said, "We always take snacks and dinner if necessary. Since I'm watching what I eat, I always make sure to take myself healthy snacks. It is totally possible to eat healthy at sporting events, it just takes a little planning."

Recipes

Big Momma's Belly-Ups wraps

Submitted by Mrs. Craig Gilchrist

A base mixture of an 8 oz. pkg cream cheese (softened,) a large spoonful of sour cream and a package of dry Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix. Blend well. Spread a light layer of the mixture on tortillas and then add your favorite ingredients. We do turkey, lettuce and cheese or ham, lightly blanched thin asparagus spears and pepper. Tightly roll, wrap in plastic wrap or place several to fill a quart or gallon baggie (depending on your tortilla size) and transport. Great for games, boating and picnics. Perfect as veggie wraps, too!

Apple Slices plus Cheese Cubes in a Jar

Prep the apples by slicing/coring them and dipping them in something so that they don't turn brown. You can dip apples in a little bit of lemon juice, Fruit Fresh (it's ascorbic acid,) or even a bit of orange juice. Place apples in the bottom of the mason jar. Fill a fruit cup with a serving of cheese cubes. Place the cheese cube-filled cup in the mason jar, screw on the lid, and place in the fridge for up to five days. You can find 10 healthy recipes in a jar at http://www.blessthismessplease.com/10-healthy-snacks-prep-advance

Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Energy Bites

http://www.chefsavvy.com

No-Bake Five Ingredient Peanut Butter Energy Bites are loaded with old fashioned oats, peanut butter and flax seeds. They are versatile and you can substitute the flax seed with wheat germ or add in coconut. A healthy protein-packed breakfast or snack! These energy bites are no-bake, super-easy to make and take less than 10 minutes to put together.

2/3 cup creamy peanut butter

1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

1 cup old fashioned oats

1/2 cup ground flax seeds

2 Tbsp. honey

Combine all five ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir to combine. Place in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes so they are easier to roll.

Roll into 12 bites and store in the fridge for up to a week. Makes 12 bites.