The Stars Have Moved On—But Their Light Still Shines
Three books can change your Thursday. One book can change your world.
Hello,
Last week, I shared the story of Three Years, Three Stars, One Unforgettable Team. And now comes the harder part: closure.
How do you wrap up something that meant so much? How do you step away from a team that didn’t just take the field together—but built something lasting together?
We tried our best.
We gathered in Salt Lake City for a final banquet. Almost every Star and their families were there. The room was full—of laughter, of tears, of stories told and hugs that lingered just a little longer than usual. It was more than a goodbye. It was a celebration of everything we built.
My close friend Mike Sanders used to remind me: a small group of ordinary people can do extraordinary things.
Well, this group did.
And I wanted to honor them properly. To reflect. To share what this team truly became.
What follows is a tribute to each of the players and coaches who made the Salt Lake Stars what they were—followed by the closing remarks I shared that night, words that tried to capture what this team, and this journey, meant to me.
Because this wasn’t just baseball.
It was community. It was belief. It was love.
Introducing, the Salt Lake Stars
Dash Allen #3
Dash joined the Stars at 13U and stayed through 14U. From the very beginning, you could feel the passion in the way he approached the game. There’s a quiet fire in Dash—a deep competitive spirit that came out when the moment was big and the team needed him most.
He started with us as a shortstop, but when he moved over to first base, everything clicked. His glove transformed our infield. Dash turned tough plays into routine outs, picked balls out of the dirt, and gave our defense a sense of calm and confidence.
At the plate, he delivered so many key hits—mixing power with precision—and in the dugout, he was always tuned in, always present, always ready.
But what made Dash truly special was his balance. On the outside, he was gentle and kind. On the inside, he was a fierce competitor. That contrast made him respected by everyone who shared the field with him.
Dash, thank you for your heart, your grit, and the edge you brought to this team. You made the Stars tougher, sharper, and better.
Downtown Jack Brown “JB” #2
Jack was with us from the very beginning—12U fall and spring—and left a mark that went way beyond the stat sheet. He was always positive, always smiling, and somehow always made the team feel a little lighter. Whether he was handing out nicknames in the dugout or just flashing that trademark JB grin, Jack reminded us that baseball is supposed to be fun.
But don’t let the easy smile fool you—Jack was a competitor. He worked hard, stayed focused, and learned to overcome challenges on and off the field.
JB, thank you for being the kind of teammate everyone wants to play with. Your heart, humor, and hustle helped shape this team’s identity.
Xadian Butcher “Butch” #14
Xadian joined the Stars in a way that perfectly fits who he is—we posted an ad on the RMSB website, and Brittani answered. No tryout. Just trust. And from day one, Xadian proved he belonged. He played every position on the field—pitcher, catcher, infielder, outfielder—and no matter where we put him, he played hard.
If we had asked him to run through a brick wall for the team, he would’ve done it. That’s the kind of player Xadian was—fierce, fearless, and absolutely committed. Whether it was making diving plays in the outfield, firing throws from behind the plate, or just delivering in a big moment, Butch always found a way to impact the game.
Off the field, he was the heart of the dugout—laughing, creating videos with his teammates, cracking jokes, and building friendships that will last long after the Stars. He brought intensity, fun, and fire—everything a team needs to win and stay together.
Xadian, thank you for your courage, your edge, and your willingness to give this team your whole heart. You were the engine in so many of our wins—and a core piece of what made the Stars a family.
Ryan Cushman #11
Ryan wasn’t the loudest voice in the dugout, but make no mistake—his presence was always felt. He brought a calm, grounded energy to the Stars, and when Ryan was on the field, there was a quiet confidence in the way he played.
And when he wasn’t on the diamond with the Stars, he was often beating his teammates on Xbox—which, depending on who you ask, might’ve been just as competitive.
Ryan, thank you for being the kind of teammate who brought steadiness and a quiet determination that anchored the team in ways that often go unnoticed—but never unappreciated.
Griffin Dickson #9
Griffin grew—literally and figuratively. He developed into a confident, skilled athlete.
He was critical of himself, always pushing to improve, always demanding more. And when the moment called for it, Griffin delivered—especially on the mound. He gave us big-time performances in high-stakes games, especially in Omaha, where he pitched with total focus and composure. But beyond the stats, Griffin was a core leader on this team.
Off the field, he connected deeply with his teammates. Whether it was a late-night meal with his teammates or just time in the dugout, Griffin found his place and made it feel like home.
Griffin, thank you for your leadership, your drive, and your passion for this game. You’re the kind of player who makes everyone around you better—and you’ve helped define what it means to be a Star.
Sebastian “Sebbe” Estrada #50
Sebbe joined the Stars at 13U and quickly became one of the most reliable and versatile players on the field. It didn’t matter where we needed him—outfield, infield, pitcher—Sebbe always said yes and gave everything he had.
He plays the game with grit. There’s a quiet toughness about him that every coach notices and every teammate respects. You’d look up and realize Sebbe was making plays everywhere—fielding with precision, throwing with confidence, or stepping on the mound in big moments.
But beyond his natural talent, what stood out most about Sebbe was his steady presence. He wasn’t the loudest voice, but his impact was felt deeply. He showed up, competed hard, and made everyone around him better.
Sebbe, thank you for bringing your fire, your skill, and your team-first mentality to the Stars. You were one of those players who could do it all—and did.
Jack Fuller #8
Jack isn’t someone who demanded the spotlight—but he always found a way to make a meaningful impact. Whether it was delivering a clutch base hit, making a big play in the field, or stepping onto the mound when the team needed him, Jack showed up. He played with quiet strength and a deep sense of purpose.
And let’s not forget—it’s not always easy to play on a team where your dad is one of the coaches. But Jack handled it with maturity and grace. He carved out his own identity and did it with humility.
Jack, thank you for your perseverance, your quiet leadership, and your steady growth. You are the kind of player every team needs—and we’re better because you were a part of this one.
Barrett Glotzbach #48
Barrett was with us from the beginning—12U, 13U, and into 14U—and his impact can’t be overstated. Even before the Stars officially existed, we knew Barrett was someone we needed.
Barrett was a natural leader. When the energy dipped, when the dugout got quiet, when the game got tough—he was often the one who pulled the team back together. He brought fire, joy, and intensity to every inning. He was the guy you relied on to lift the group, whether with his play, his voice, or just his presence.
And off the field, Barrett was the same—always helping out, always showing up for his teammates. He brought consistency, character, and passion to this team from day one.
Barrett, thank you for being the spark, the leader, and the teammate every coach dreams of. You were there from the beginning, and your fingerprints are all over what this team became.
Taydem Hamblin #35
Taydem proved to be one of the most versatile and reliable players we had. He played almost every position on the field—not because he had to, but because he could. Infield, outfield, catcher, pitcher—wherever the team needed him, Taydem stepped up.
And when we needed strikes, when the game called for someone calm and collected on the mound, Taydem was the player we turned to. He wasn’t flashy—he was steady. He gave us what every coach hopes for: trust. You could trust Taydem to compete, to stay composed, and to deliver.
Taydem, thank you for your adaptability, your consistency, and your unshakable presence. You were a rock for this team—and the kind of player that helps hold everything together.
Drew Johnson #10
Drew joined us at 12U without ever having tried out—he came to us on a trusted recommendation, and from that moment on, he earned everything. Over the next three years, Drew became a steady, vital presence in our lineup and in our team culture. He turned into our leadoff hitter, delivered clutch hits, ran the bases hard, and brought consistency to every part of his game.
But Drew’s greatest strength may have been his quiet competitiveness. He wasn’t flashy—but he cared deeply. He worked through hard moments, battled when things didn’t go his way, and kept showing up—ready to contribute, ready to grow.
Drew, thank you for the steadiness, the grit, and the care you brought to this team. You made the Stars better every time you took the field—and we’re proud of the player and person you’ve become.
Ashton McDonald #5
Ashton played with us at 12U and 13U, and what immediately stood out was his attitude. He showed up to every practice and every game with a smile on his face and a heart full of energy. He was always kind, always coachable, and always ready to give his best—no matter the role, no matter the situation.
Ashton had this way of lifting the team just by being himself. His presence reminded us that the game is supposed to be fun. And yet, behind that ever-present grin was a player who quietly worked hard, paid attention, and gave 100% every time he stepped on the field.
Ashton, thank you for being a light on this team. Your attitude, effort, and love for the game made a lasting impact—and we’re all better for it.
Aaron “Air” McNair #2
Aaron joined us in the fall of our final season, and stepping into a close-knit team that late is never easy. But Aaron didn’t just fit in—he became the anchor of our 14U squad. He showed up with humility, embraced the challenge, and earned every bit of respect that followed.
He grew tremendously—not just in skill, but in confidence and presence. Whether it was taking the mound in tight situations or laughing with teammates from across the field between plays, Aaron quickly became a central thread in the Stars fabric.
I’ll never forget that game-saving moment when the bases were loaded, two outs, and a rocket shot was ripped up the middle—only for Xadian to make a diving catch behind Aaron and seal the win. That kind of trust between teammates doesn’t happen overnight. Aaron had built that connection. He had become one of them.
Aaron, you brought steadiness, heart, and quiet leadership to this team. You made us better, and you reminded us what it looks like to step into a new challenge and own it.
Korbin Middleton #31
Korbin joined us at 13U, and from the moment he stepped on the field, you could tell: this was a player who would do whatever it took for his team. Catcher, pitcher, outfield, infield—Korbin did it all, and he did it with intensity, focus, and joy. He was the definition of a utility player, and more than that—he was a spark.
Whether he was starting a rally or sprinting out to warm up a pitcher, Korbin was always ready. And when the pressure was highest, like in Omaha, he dug in and found something deeper—grit. He handled big moments with poise and proved time and again that he could rise when it mattered most.
Off the field, Korbin was pure fun. He kept the mood light, made his teammates laugh, and brought a contagious energy that lifted the dugout. His joy for the game reminded all of us why we started playing in the first place.
Korbin, thank you for being all-in, all the time. Your toughness, versatility, and spirit made you indispensable—and unforgettable.
Jaxon Mustache #99
Jaxon joined us for 13U and 14U, and from the moment he strapped on the catcher’s gear, he became a wall behind the plate. He took more foul tips, hard blocks, and bruises than most players will in a lifetime—and he never backed down. Game after game, inning after inning, Jaxon caught with toughness, pride, and purpose.
But it wasn’t just the physical grit. Jaxon brought a presence. A big personality. A voice that echoed through the dugout. He made people laugh, fired up his teammates, and made opposing runners think twice. He had a way of making every game feel just a little more alive.
And his leadership behind the plate was undeniable. He kept pitchers calm, controlled the tempo of the game, and made sure everyone knew what was coming next. He was the heartbeat of the defense.
Jaxon, thank you for your toughness, your voice, and the fire you brought to the Stars. You anchored this team—not just with your glove, but with your energy, your leadership, and your heart.
Jack Nalder #12
Jack was with us for both 13U and 14U, and from the beginning, it was obvious—this kid had serious talent. He could play anywhere on the field and make it look easy. Whether it was tracking down a fly ball or taking the mound, Jack brought smooth, effortless athleticism to every position he touched.
But what made Jack special wasn’t just his physical ability—it was his quiet confidence. He didn’t need to say much. He just played. And in doing so, he earned the respect of his teammates and coaches alike.
Jack, thank you for your versatility, your calm presence, and your steady commitment to the team. You showed us that impact doesn’t always come from being loud—it comes from showing up and delivering, time and time again.
Enrique Negrete #16
Enrique joined us for our 14U season, and from day one, it was clear—this kid had heart. But what made Enrique stand out wasn’t just what he brought physically—it was how much he wanted to learn, to grow, and to succeed.
He worked hard. He took feedback. He cared. That combination made him incredibly coachable and made the team stronger. Even though he joined later in the journey, Enrique quickly became someone we could count on for the way he showed up every day to compete and improve.
Enrique, thank you for stepping in, stepping up, and showing what it looks like to mix natural talent with hard work. Your future is bright, and we’re proud you wore the Stars jersey.
Jackson Noonan #4
One of the most courageous things Jackson did was choosing to play with the Stars, even when his dad was coaching the Park City Miners. That decision took self-belief, independence, and a quiet kind of strength—core values we talk about but rarely see lived out so clearly.
Jackson may not have been with us for every tournament, but when he was, you felt his presence. He played with intent, hustle, and heart. He showed us that being a Star isn’t about how long you’re here—it’s about how you show up while you are.
Jackson, thank you for choosing this team. Your courage and commitment to your own path made you unforgettable.
Finley Peterman #23
Finley played with the Stars from 12U through 14U, and over those three years, he did it all—pitching, catching, first base, outfield. He’s one of the most gifted athletes we’ve had, and what made him special wasn’t just his raw ability—it was that when Finley believed in himself, you could feel the shift. He became unstoppable.
There were times we leaned on Finley on the mound, times when we needed a big hit, times when we needed someone to simply settle things down. And more often than not, he delivered. Quietly. Calmly. Confidently.
But perhaps what stands out most is how Finley evolved—not just as a player, but as a person. He came in with potential and left as someone who understood what he could do when he trusted his talent and his training.
Finley, thank you for your presence, your growth, and your quiet leadership. You were one of the pillars of the Stars—and your journey helped shape the team into what it became.
Luis Rendon #28
Luis joined us in the spring of our 13U season, and though his time with the Stars was short, the impact he made was lasting. Luis brought undeniable talent—quick hands, a strong arm, and natural ability that stood out right away. But even more than that, he brought heart.
Luis was always willing to lend a hand, to support his teammates, and to step in wherever he was needed. He played with humility and joy, and that energy lifted everyone around him.
Though life took him to Texas, Luis remains part of the Stars family. His time with us, however brief, is a reminder that sometimes it only takes a moment to make a mark.
Luis, thank you for the talent, kindness, and spirit you brought to this team. Once a Star, always a Star.
Rhys Rosh #7
Rhys has been with the Stars since the very beginning. Over the course of three years, he grew into a player that every team dreams of having. He had the skill, the discipline, the competitive fire—but what defined Rhys most wasn’t his talent. It was his impact.
Rhys was the kind of player who could change a game. He often pitched in the biggest moments, closed out tight wins, and stood in the batter’s box with calm in high-pressure situations. But more importantly, Rhys became the player his teammates looked to—when they needed steadiness, confidence, or belief.
Playing for your dad is never easy. Being coached by your dad in front of your peers is even harder. But Rhys handled that with grace, maturity, and a level of self-awareness well beyond his years. And for me—as his coach and his father—there is no greater privilege than having had a front-row seat to watch him grow, not just into an elite player, but into a leader, a teammate, and a young man I deeply admire.
There were moments that tested him—when the game didn’t go his way, when frustration hit—but each time, he responded with resilience. He kept coming back. Kept working. Kept leading.
Rhys, thank you for being the heartbeat of this team. For your leadership, your humility, and the example you set every time you stepped onto the field. And thank you—for the memories we’ve made together, the hard conversations, the laughs, the long car rides, and the silent understanding that this has always been about more than baseball.
Mateo Sigala #0
Mateo joined us at just 11 years old, stepping onto a team filled with older, bigger, more experienced players—and he never flinched. He adjusted. He competed. He proved he belonged. And over the years, he didn’t just keep up—he quietly became a cornerstone of this team.
There are so many moments to celebrate, but one stands out. In his very first tournament, Mateo got picked off first base reading his wristband—a tough moment for any young player. But after that game, we gave him the first-ever “Be a Goldfish” award and talked about learning, letting go, and moving forward. Mateo took that lesson to heart, and he’s been modeling it ever since.
His presence in centerfield became almost automatic—a sure thing. His ability to stay calm in high-pressure situations, trust his training, and contribute to the team in big moments set him apart.
Mateo, thank you for your heart, your poise, and your belief in yourself. You showed us that age doesn’t define leadership—and that character is what truly makes a teammate.
Major Smith #9
Major joined us at 12U and stayed with the team through 14U. From the very beginning, he was someone we could count on. He played everywhere—outfield, first base, pitcher, catcher. He never asked for attention, never sought the spotlight, but always stepped up when the team needed him.
Major is thoughtful. Kind. Steady. And he’s also tough—mentally and physically. He played through setbacks, handled pressure with maturity, and became a deeply respected voice in the dugout. Whether he was warming up pitchers or driving in runs, he did it with heart.
Major, thank you for the grace you carried, the strength you built, and the belief you inspired—not only in yourself, but in the team around you. You’ve left a lasting mark on the Stars, and on everyone lucky enough to share the field with you.
Miles “Money” Swenson #13
Miles was with us from the beginning—12U through 14U—and over those three seasons, we watched him grow in every way.
Miles played with heart. He showed up ready, he gave everything he had, and he never gave up. Whether he was in the lineup or waiting for his moment, he was always locked in, always supporting his teammates, and always looking for a way to contribute.
He brought joy to the dugout, hustle to the field, and consistency to everything he did. There was no ego—just effort, and lots of it. Miles became the kind of player every coach hopes to have: reliable, hard-working, and full of character.
Miles, thank you for your spirit, your team-first mentality, and the way you always showed up ready to compete. You earned the name “Money”—and then some.
Coaches
Coach Jake Broadbent
Jake was cheering us on from afar before he ever stepped into the dugout—watching GameChanger streams, texting encouragement, following our journey. And when he was able to join us in person—whether in Cooperstown, Omaha, or right here at home—he brought a special presence that instantly elevated the energy of the team.
Jake connected with the boys in a way that’s hard to teach. He made them feel seen. He made them feel understood. He lifted them up—always with humor, always with positivity, always with a calm, steady voice. Whether it was encouragement in field, a word in the dugout, or just a quick smile between innings, Jake built real, lasting bonds with our players.
Jake, thank you for believing in the Stars, for showing up in every way that matters, and for helping make this team feel like home.
Ty “GM” Dickson
Without Ty, there would be no Stars. He’s been the lynchpin of this organization from the very beginning, not just in what he did, but in who he is.
Ty, your presence has been woven into every part of this team—whether it was planning behind the scenes, keeping things running smoothly, or bringing levity and warmth to the dugout. You were never just a support—you were a cornerstone. Your personality, your steadiness, your humor, and your genuine love for the boys were essential to everything the Stars became.
There are few people in the world like you—maybe no one, truly. And beyond the team, you’ve become one of my closest and most trusted friends here in Salt Lake City. I’ve learned from you. I’ve leaned on you. And I’ve admired the way you show up—as a father, as a friend, and as a person.
Thank you, Ty, for the hours you gave, the effort you put in, and the heart you brought—not just to the Stars, but to my life. You helped build something unforgettable.
Coach Gary Fuller
There are no words that can fully capture how thankful and grateful I am for Coach Gary Fuller. But I’ll try—because without him, there are no Stars. Period.
Gary was there from the very beginning. He stood beside me at the founding of this team, before there were uniforms, before there were wins, before anyone believed in what this could become. Gary believed. He believed in the vision, in the players, in the culture we wanted to build—and he gave everything he had to help bring it to life.
For three years, Gary was more than a coach—he was my partner, my co-pilot, and the steady presence who made sure the work got done. He was the one checking the fields, loading the gear, unlocking cages, setting up BP. He was the one who knew every player, every family, and every nuance of what this team needed to thrive.
And when life pulled me away during our final season, Gary stepped in and kept the Stars alive. He didn’t just fill a role—he led with grace, patience, and care. He carried the team forward, and he did it without hesitation, without ego, and with the kind of integrity that defines what coaching is truly about.
Gary didn’t just live the Stars culture—he helped create it. He believed in these boys, he pushed them, protected them, and showed up for them, over and over again.
Gary, thank you. For your time, your sacrifice, your leadership, and your unwavering commitment to this team. The Stars were only possible because you were part of it—and I will forever be grateful.
Coach Dave Gorner
There’s something undeniably poetic about coaching side by side with Dave Gorner.
Dave and I met in nursery school. We played our first baseball game together at age 7 and continued playing together—year after year—all the way through high school. We shared fields, dugouts, bus rides, wins, losses, and everything in between. And after all that, decades later, we found ourselves sharing the third-base line once again—this time as coaches, not kids.
Dave has always been my loyal friend—someone who would do anything for me. So when I asked him in 2022 if he’d come help coach a youth team I was building, he didn’t hesitate. He showed up. And what he brought changed everything.
Dave didn’t just coach. He helped define the identity of the Stars. His passion, his energy, his voice—it became part of who we were. Opposing coaches would come up to me at tournaments and say, “Who is that guy?” And I’d smile and say, “That’s Dave.”
He brought a fire and intensity that lifted us in our biggest games. He kept players locked in, taught them to take pride in the little things, and led with everything he had. Dave truly embodied our core values—competing with heart, showing up for his team, and leaving it all out on the field.
And for me personally, coaching alongside him has been one of the most meaningful full-circle moments of my life. From childhood teammates to lifelong friends to Stars coaches—this chapter is something I’ll treasure forever.
Dave, thank you for your loyalty, your leadership, and for giving this team—and me—everything you had.
Coach Brett Hamblin
Brett brought an incredible depth of baseball knowledge to the Stars, but what truly set him apart was his care for the boys. His coaching went far beyond mechanics—he taught with patience, belief, and quiet strength. So many parents have mentioned the impact Brett had on their sons—how he broke down swings, how he helped players see themselves differently, how he believed in their potential before they believed in it themselves.
And beyond all that—Brett drove an hour and a half each way to be at practices. That’s not convenience. That’s commitment. That’s heart.
Brett, thank you for saying yes to this team, for pouring your time, energy, and passion into these boys, and for being such a steady, generous force throughout our journey. You gave the Stars so much—and we’re better because of you.
Coach Andrew Malkin
Andrew didn’t have a son on the team. He didn’t have any reason to volunteer his time other than his love for the game and his belief in the value of showing up for kids. And that’s exactly what he did—he showed up, with a smile, a joke, and a calming presence that made even the tensest situations feel manageable.
He brought balance. While the rest of us paced or stressed, Andrew had a way of lightening the moment. And in doing so, he gave our players the space to breathe, to laugh, and to remember that baseball, at its core, is supposed to be joyful.
His impact wasn’t loud or flashy—but it was felt. He made our dugout better. He made our players more at ease. And he reminded us of the power of simply being there—for the right reasons.
Andrew, thank you for your generosity, your spirit, and your genuine investment in these boys’ lives. You brought heart to this team in a way that will never be forgotten.
Tim McNair
Tim stepped up in a big way this season as our video streamer and GameChanger keeper—two roles that are absolutely vital but often go underappreciated. From capturing the big moments on video to tracking every pitch, every out, and every run, Tim made sure that players, coaches, and families stayed connected to every detail of every game.
Tim, thank you for your time, your consistency, and your willingness to jump in and help.
Josh Peterman
Josh was a constant—a presence in the stands, a supporter at every game, and someone who always stepped in when something needed to get done. Whether it was organizing carpools, helping with gear, lending a hand on the sidelines, or simply offering steady encouragement, Josh was one of the unsung heroes of this team.
And truthfully—when we first started this journey, I didn’t know if we could pull it off. But once Josh bought in, I knew we were on the right path. His belief gave me confidence. His support helped build the foundation. And his quiet leadership helped hold it all together.
Josh, thank you for being all in. You were the glue—steady, supportive, and essential to what the Stars became.
Coach Karl “Pop Pop” Rosh
The only thing better than having my dad by my side as a teenager on the baseball field… is having him by my side as a coach.
For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of sharing this journey with my father—Coach Pop Pop—and it’s hard to put into words just how meaningful that’s been.
I always knew my dad understood the game of baseball. But over these three seasons, I’ve come to realize just how deeply he sees the game—how he understands people, pace, rhythm, and the nuance that transforms a good team into something more. I’ve learned more about baseball from standing next to him in these dugouts than I have in a lifetime of playing and watching.
But beyond that, I’ve learned even more about life. About patience. Presence. Humor. Timing. And love. The joy, the laughs, the quiet moments of reflection—these three years have been one of the greatest gifts I’ve ever received. A time I will always carry with me.
And I’m not the only one who feels that way. The players listened when you spoke. You earned their respect by being steady, wise, and always having their back. You knew exactly what to say when they were up, and even more importantly, when they were down. You pulled them aside for quiet pep talks, reassured them with just a look or a line. You made them feel believed in.
You were our secret weapon—our calming presence in chaos, our wise voice in the noise, our culture carrier. You were our differentiator.
Pop Pop, thank you for being there—not just for me, but for all of us. Coaching beside you has been one of the true honors of my life. This team wouldn’t be what it became without you. And I wouldn’t be the man I am without you either.
Paul Sigala
Paul kept score in the physical baseball scorebook for every single game. In an era of apps and livestreams, Paul was our historian—tracking every pitch, every hit, every substitution with care and precision. And when there was ever a debate about a call or a play—when emotions ran high or memory got fuzzy—Paul was the one we turned to for the truth. He had it in ink.
But Paul didn’t just keep the book. He brought thoughtfulness, insight, and a calm professionalism that grounded the team. And while plenty of teams have a scorekeeper, no other team has a scorekeeper with a PhD in the dugout keeping the official book.
Paul, thank you for your consistency, your quiet leadership, and your contribution to the culture of the Stars. You chronicled this journey one pitch at a time—and we’re incredibly grateful.
Coach Matt “Marty” Smith
Matt Smith, known to all of us as Marty, has been a constant presence, a steady hand, and a source of wisdom, laughter, and support since the beginning. From the very first practice to our final tournament, having Marty around meant I could breathe easier. Why? Because when Marty was on site, I knew we had all bases covered.
Cybersecurity? Covered. Nutrition? Covered. Physical security, dugout integrity, pop-up tent logistics, comedic relief? Covered. There is simply no category Marty doesn’t quietly manage.
But more than any role or task, Marty showed up with selflessness, kindness, and a spirit of generosity that you rarely see. He gave of his time, his energy, and his heart—not for credit, not for recognition—but because he believed in the boys, believed in the team, and believed in the power of showing up.
Marty, thank you for being the unofficial commissioner, the on-site problem solver, the morale booster, and the friend we could all count on. Your impact on the Stars goes beyond what can be measured. This team was stronger, better, and more complete because you were part of it.
Coach Josh Swenson
Josh was there from the very beginning. He didn’t wait to be asked—he volunteered. He saw what we were trying to build and offered his time, energy, and heart to help bring it to life. In those early days, when the Stars were still just an idea, Josh was integral to their formation.
As the program evolved, Josh continued to lead. When we needed someone to help guide Stars White—Josh stepped up and, alongside Coach Fuller, kept the culture alive and strong. He didn’t do it for recognition. He did it because he cared.
And in our final season, when so much was in motion, Josh took over a key role as acting GM. He handled logistics, kept the trains running, and made sure the boys had everything they needed to compete at the highest level. His work behind the scenes allowed the rest of us to stay focused on coaching—and without him, none of it would have run as smoothly as it did.
Josh was selfless in his contribution. He never asked for credit. He just gave—again and again—and we are all better for it.
Josh, thank you for your quiet leadership, your steady presence, and your unwavering belief in what the Stars could be. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Michelle Peterman & Ashley McNair
Note: Michelle and Ashley did not trust any other photographer to take their photo, so they preferred to go photo-less
A huge thank you to Michelle Peterman and Ashley McNair—the talented and generous photographers behind so many of the memories we hold dear.
Over three years you were there—camera in hand, capturing the moments that define what this team truly was. Not just the action shots, but the smiles. The hugs. The dugout glances. The celebrations. The quiet in-between.
So much of our story—the one we’re celebrating tonight—is preserved because of the images you gave us. And years from now, when the boys are older, and these days feel further away, it’ll be your work that brings it all back.
Thank you for giving us a way to keep smiling, keep remembering, and keep the spirit of the Stars alive—frame by frame.
Closing Remarks
Three years ago, this was just an idea.
An experiment.
Could we build a team that was about more than talent? Could we create something rooted in values, in effort, in belief? Could we make room for joy, for second chances, for grit, for growth?
The answer… is sitting right here in this room.
In the players who wore the Stars jersey with pride.
In the parents who showed up in the cold, the wind, the rain, and the heat.
In the coaches who gave their time, their hearts, and their weeknights and weekends.
Together, we didn’t just build a team.
We built a culture.
And that culture—those values, that feeling, that sense of belonging—it doesn’t end tonight.
It lives on in every moment these boys carry with them.
In how they show up in high school.
In how they respond to adversity.
In how they treat their teammates, their classmates, their future friends and families.
The Stars weren’t about playing perfect baseball.
They were about playing with heart.
They were about laughing between games, throwing footballs in the outfield, dancing in the dugout, and picking each other up after a strikeout.
They were about learning how to lose, how to win, and how to do both with character.
And somewhere along the way, in trying to teach that… we were all changed too.
I know I was.
I became a better father. A better friend. A better version of myself—because of what we built together.
And while this chapter is closing, what we’ve created is far from over.
Because culture doesn’t end. It echoes.
It shows up in new dugouts. In new friendships. In future teams. In how these boys lead.
And in how they remember what it felt like to truly be a part of something.
So to the players: carry that with you.
Carry the Stars with you—not as a team you were once on, but as a way you now move through the world.
Carry the effort. The attitude. The belief.
Carry the memory of what it meant to be cheered for by your teammates, trusted by your coaches, and loved unconditionally by your families.
If you remember that… if you live that…
Then the Stars will always keep shining.
Thank you—for the greatest three seasons of my life.
Welcome to this week’s Three Book Thursday.
1. Peak performance
Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise
Summary
We tend to talk about talent like it’s something magical—sprinkled on a lucky few at birth. But Peak challenges that myth with something much more empowering: science.
Anders Ericsson—whose research laid the groundwork for the now-famous “10,000 hour rule”—offers a deeper, more precise look at how people truly become great at what they do. And it’s not about innate ability. It’s about deliberate practice. Focused, structured, feedback-driven work that pushes you just beyond your comfort zone. Repeated. With intention.
This book was a wake-up call. Not just for how we think about skill, but for how we limit ourselves with the stories we tell. Ericsson makes it clear: greatness isn’t reserved for the few. It’s available to the committed.
The biggest takeaway? You’re not stuck. You’re not limited. And you’re not finished.
Growth isn’t about time spent—it’s about how you spend that time. Want to master a skill? Break it down. Get specific. Seek feedback. Practice with purpose. Build mental representations. This is the kind of approach that separates real progress from rote repetition.
But this book isn’t just tactical—it’s philosophical.
It asks a deeper question: What if your potential is not a ceiling, but a starting point?
That’s what stayed with me. That we don’t rise to our expectations—we rise to our training. And that training, with the right focus and feedback, can change everything.
Peak reminds us that expertise is not born. It’s built.
And if you’re willing to build it—brick by brick, day by day—you might just surprise yourself with what you’re capable of.
Favorite Quote, Insight, & Principle
Quote: “When people say Allen was blessed with a beautiful jump shot...Don't underestimate the work I've put in every day. Not some days. Every day.” -Ray Allen
Insight: Learning isn't a way of reaching one's potential but rather a way of developing it. We can create our own potential.
Principle: The reason most people don't possess extraordinary physical abilities isn't because they don't have capacity for them, but rather because they're satisfied to live in the comfortable rut of homeostasis and never do the work that is required to get out of it. They live in the world of good enough.
Author: Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool
Themes: Peak performance, Human psychology, Sports performance
2. Fiction
Bang the Drum Slowly
Summary
Bang the Drum Slowly is one of those books that sneaks up on you. You think you’re stepping into a baseball novel—a story about players, contracts, spring training, and road games—and you are. But like the best sports stories, this one isn’t really about the game. It’s about people. It’s about loyalty. It’s about dignity. And most of all, it’s about how we care for each other in the quiet, complicated spaces that exist outside the spotlight.
The narrator is Henry Wiggen, a star pitcher for the fictional New York Mammoths. His voice is honest and matter-of-fact, but underneath that simplicity is something profound. When Henry finds out that his teammate Bruce Pearson—a slow, often-overlooked catcher—is dying of a terminal illness, he makes a choice. He decides not to let Bruce fade into the background. Instead, he protects him. Advocates for him. Walks beside him during what will be Bruce’s final season.
What unfolds is not a sentimental story, but a deeply human one. The other players don’t know. The coaches don’t know. It’s just Henry, carrying the weight of this secret, choosing again and again to be the kind of teammate we all hope we’d be.
And that’s where this book lands its punch.
It’s not about heroics. It’s about presence.
It’s about standing by someone not because it’s easy, but because it’s right.
It’s about the slow, often unspoken way we show up for each other—not with speeches or grand gestures, but with consistency, kindness, and grace.
Reading this, I thought about all the teams I’ve been part of—on the field, in the hospital, in business, in life. The real test of a team isn’t how it performs when everything’s going well. It’s how it holds itself together when someone is quietly falling apart.
Bang the Drum Slowly is tender, smart, and quietly devastating in all the right ways. It reminds us that greatness isn’t just what you do with your talent. It’s how you use your place in the world to make space for others.
And in the end, it’s a reminder that when the season is over—when the lights go out and the crowd goes home—the thing that lasts is how you made people feel.
Favorite Quote, Insight, & Principle
Quote: “This is a game played by boys in the fields, but it is lived by men in their hearts.”
Insight: Heroes aren’t made in the big moments—they’re made in the quiet ones when no one’s watching
Principle: The game goes on, but not everyone who played gets to keep playing
Author: Mark Harris
Themes: Fiction
3. Personal development
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance: An Inquiry into Values
Summary
Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is a classic. But not the kind that gathers dust on a shelf—it’s the kind that lingers, confronts, and transforms you long after you’ve turned the final page.
I picked it up expecting a simple road trip narrative. A father and son on a motorcycle, crossing the American West. And while that’s the frame, what unfolds is something far more intimate and philosophical. This is not just a story—it’s a meditation on life, meaning, quality, and the pursuit of something deeper than success.
Robert Pirsig invites us into a journey of ideas as much as miles. He weaves between memories, mechanics, and metaphysics, all while introducing one of the most provocative questions I’ve encountered in a book: What does it mean to live with Quality?
This isn’t “self-help.” It’s not neat or linear. At times, it’s dense, even maddening. But that’s the brilliance. Pirsig doesn’t give answers—he gives frameworks. He dismantles the divide between logic and emotion, science and art, technology and humanity, and shows us that true wisdom lives in the tension between them.
What makes Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance timeless is how it challenges us to examine our relationship with the world. How we build. How we fix. How we care. Whether it’s a motorcycle, a relationship, a career, or our own internal landscape—the approach matters.
And in that sense, the motorcycle is a metaphor for everything.
This book asks you to slow down. To get your hands dirty. To pay attention to the systems behind the surface. And most of all—to pursue a kind of excellence that isn’t about perfection, but about presence.
It’s not an easy read. But it’s one of the most important ones.
For anyone trying to bridge the gap between doing and being, building and becoming, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance is more than a book. It’s a companion for the road ahead.
Favorite Quote, Insight, & Principle
Quote: “The truth knocks on the door and you say, “Go away, I’m looking for the truth,” and so it goes away”
Insight: You look at where you’re going and where you are and it never makes sense, but then you look back at where you’ve been and a pattern seems to emerge.
Principle: Peace of mind produces right values, right values produce right thoughts, right thoughts produce right actions.
Author: Robert M. Pirsig
Themes: Personal development, Philosophy, Living a full life
The word that kept surfacing this week was: believe.
It was stitched into every moment of the Salt Lake Stars banquet. Not in bold declarations—but in the quieter ways that mattered more. A boy who believed he could rise to the moment. A coach who believed in a player before the player believed in himself. A group of teammates who believed in something bigger than wins and losses.
And that belief didn’t end with the final game.
It showed up again in Peak—the science behind how belief, paired with deliberate practice, reshapes potential. It echoed in Bang the Drum Slowly—in how belief can carry a teammate when words fall short. And it was reflected in Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance—in the hard-earned belief that excellence isn’t perfection, but care.
The takeaway?
You don’t need certainty to move forward.
You just need belief.
In effort.
In growth.
In one another.
And when belief is shared—between teammates, families, friends—that’s when it becomes something even greater:
It becomes a legacy.
Always ❤️📚💡
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