2006 Programs and Events

Lao Kids Take a swing at Softball

Lao kids learn softball skills

Practice practice practice

When Political and Economic Section Intern Jason Ray Hutchison volunteered to host the monthly Embassy softball game, he expected to coach a team or two of American and Lao staff. A busy weekend had most everyone elsewhere, however, and the “game” turned out to be three people playing catch and taking batting practice for an hour. As low-key as it seemed, the activity attracted the attention of a dozen young Lao children, who crowded at the fence to see what was going on. After the other two participants called it a day, Jason invited the kids onto the field and asked if they would like to try. Thankfully, the Embassy had provided enough gloves for everyone, and after just half an hour the children were playing their very first game of softball. By the end of the afternoon, several more children, parents, and even a police officer had joined in to cheer on the players. While not what the Embassy had originally envisioned, the event turned out to be a great success and an impromptu sharing of the Great American Pastime. Who knows? Lao Little League could be just around the corner. |Sept. 9, 2006|