"Opening Day" at The Long Time in Austin, Texas, we had the privilege of catching up with Janelle Ruiz, shortstop of Los Slowpokes from San Antonio. As a brand rooted in classic American sportsmanship and camaraderie, we have always been drawn to the timeless appeal of Sandlot-inspired baseball. Janelle’s passion for the game and her commitment to its fundamental values resonated profoundly with us, embodying the spirit we cherish.
For Janelle, returning to sandlot baseball marked a rekindling of the pure joy that initially drew her to the sport. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, "Being a part of sandlot baseball has been very special to me. I've played ball for many years, and the later years that I've played, it just wasn't fun anymore. So when I decided to revisit the sport, I went on the field, and I was pretty excited about it again. I had that original feeling that I had as a child going out on that field. It was about just having fun."
Her words echo the sentiment cherished by sandlot baseball enthusiasts worldwide – that the game is not merely about performance or competition but about relishing the delight of playing alongside like-minded individuals. Janelle emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive environment for women in sports, saying,
"Another reason why I really want to do well and to be out there is being an example for other women and standing out there for those other women and be an example to those little girls that we can do this."
Beyond the diamond, Janelle highlighted the sense of community that permeates sandlot baseball, extending far beyond the confines of the playing field. "It's really great. The community goes past the baseball field. It goes past the team that I'm on. We've built a great community in San Antonio and even past San Antonio, and it's just great to be part of something bigger than just your team or part of something bigger than just baseball," she shared.
As P.F. Flyers, we are honored to champion individuals like Janelle Ruiz who embody the timeless values of sandlot baseball–camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the sheer joy of the game. Her commitment to inspiring the next generation of female athletes and her unwavering dedication to the spirit of sandlot baseball serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of this beloved American pastime. Together, let us continue to celebrate the magic of sandlot baseball and the remarkable individuals who keep its spirit alive.
