By BY BRUCE HIXON – sports editor
Watching players develop their skills is one reason why Mark Manning enjoys coaching youth sports, but equally important to him is for the players to enjoy what they are doing.
Manning has five years of youth sports coaching experience, four of which have come in baseball. This is Manning's first season coaching an all-star team.
Manning is excited about the upcoming district tournament, which kids off Saturday at the Brewton Area YMCA Park. Brewton plays its first game Sunday at 6 p.m. against the Andalusia/Opp winner.
Manning admits there is some added pressure playing at home.
Manning said Little League's new pitch count rule makes decisions with pitchers a lot tougher.
While individual and team skills are an important item during practice sessions, Manning said getting everybody on the same page is equally important.
Manning said he is also fortunate to have a good group of assistant coaches, which include Lew Najor, Thomas Harp, Frank Reid and Steve Parker.