Let's Play Ball - Philippines 2018

Our latest baseball adventure took us to the Philippines!  Mason's 12U team was invited to play in the SEABYST (South East Asian Youth Baseball and Softball Tournament), which was located outside of Manila.  They competed against teams from Singapore, Manila, Bangkok, Jakarta and the local team of Pamanga.

 Rod wasn't able to join us on this trip as he was busy getting ready for the World Cup.  So I loaded up Mason and the twins and headed East!  The kids were troopers on our 12-hour journey, with a 2:45 am departure and final arrival at 7:00 pm local time!  Philippines is 4 hours ahead of Dubai. 

 We were able to explore on our first day and ventured out to a Costco style store.  They even had Costco and SAM's brand items, along with a Brandy taste testing section.  

 We of course had to visit the local McDonald's and check out their menu items such as the Chicken McDo (fried chicken), rice, McSpaghetti (noodles with ketchup).  We were also greeted by locals trying to sell handmade items, fruits and vegetables. 

One of the team dad's took a lot of great action shots!

 Mason hit 2 Home Runs and one was a Grand Slam (technically a triple with an error, but it counts as a Grand Slam in mom's book!!)

Team photos with Pampagna, Manila and Jakarta.  Before each game, teams line up, shake hands and exchange team items such as pins, buttons, patches!

 B&W photos courtesy of Coach Jamie Rae

 Three Amigos: Brody, Ben & Mason

I love this photo!

There were a lot of siblings on this trip, and they played a ton of wiffle ball!

One of the kids' favorite part about travel baseball is staying in the hotel with everyone!  Pool time is always fun, and the parents enjoyed cabana time too!

One afternoon in between games, we were able to sneak away and the kids (Crocs Clan) got foot massages!!

 Dubai was well represented by three baseball teams and one softball team!

Baseball plays a big role in our lives here in Dubai, and it's where new friendships have been made and important life lessons have been learned!  We are so thankful for the opportunities we've had to travel and play with kids from all over the world!