I am from a diamond of dirt surrounded by grass
a student of the game.
I am from a fireman's blue collar mentality
hard work and respect--earned not given.

I am from sirens and horns
red trucks.
I am from the smell of scorched wood and smoke
visiting dad at work.

I am from slimy nightcrawlers and peanuts and Coke
days and nights up north.
I am from April 2, 2007
one of my best friends--gone.

I am from dreadful road trips and hotels
home sick.
I am from three games a day in the sun week after week
exhausted.

I am from three boys in a small town in Wisconsin
one common goal--to be the best baseball players to come out of Wisconsin.
Turning doubters into believers
achieving greatness.

I live for the diamond of dirt surrounded by grass.

I am blue collar through and through.