Thoughts on Roy Hobbs Baseball from Player/Manager Steve Klein
Getting Back to the Game
“I played Little League thru my years, until I could play in High School. I tried my hand at a few semi-pro teams in the area for a few years after High School but wasn’t talented enough to hang on for very long. After not playing for almost 10 years, I got back into baseball at the age of 31. That passion had returned. So a few years later, when I was offered a chance to play in a tournament in Florida for Roy Hobbs, at age 36, I couldn’t sign up fast enough. That passion was back and with a wealth of knowledge I had picked up in my maturation within the game. I was a giddy little kid again!”
Great Fields and Top Level Competition
“I wanted to play, on professional fields, against top competition from all over the country and the world! Not to mention, trying my skills against some ex-pro players who frequent the Roy Hobbs World Series. I was so hungry to compete, I played my first 4 years in 2 different divisions, for 2 weeks. The age groups back then were 28+ and 38+ divisions. As I’ve become a full fledged veteran over the last 10 years playing within Roy Hobbs, my reasons have changed somewhat, with regard to why I continue to play, but not my passion. That has continued to grow to heights I never thought were possible.”
New Friendships and Experiences
“I gain new friendships each year as well as growing the friendships I’ve made over the years. I’ve made friendships with players in other states as well as other countries. There’s always something new, within the game, to witness and enjoy. There is always new experiences to feel and enjoy within the game. I’m quite positive, playing in Roy Hobbs tournaments has kept me in the game longer and has kept it enjoyable for me. Now, at age 47, still playing in my 30+ leagues at home, catching every game possible, I circle the The Roy Hobbs World Series on my calendar when the dates are announced. – It’s priceless!”
“There are always new experiences to feel and enjoy within the game at the RHWS.”
– Steve Klein, Baltimore CHOP (35+ Veterans).