Balls Quote by Roger Angell
“Infield practice is more mystic ritual than preparation, encouraging the big-leaguer, no less than the duffer in the stands, to believe in spite of all evidence to the contrary, that playing ball is a snap.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The New York Times Book Review, 1995
Baseball practice is portrayed as a quasi‑spiritual ritual that convinces both seasoned players and novices that success is effortless, despite evidence to the contrary.
In simple terms: Practice feels like a ritual that makes the game seem easy for everyone.
Key Takeaway
Question the myth of effortless mastery.
Themes
sports
psychology
ritual
Mood
inspirational
critical
Type
motivational
reflective
When to use this quote
- Coaching sessions
- team building
- athlete mindset
- fan engagement
Key Concepts
Performance belief
self‑fulfilling prophecy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does belief affect performance?
- When might ritual become a hindrance?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on belief can lead to complacency.
