Wild minds, anxious fingers, the incessant tap of cleats against the floor — children are becoming restless, waiting for a storm to pass so a game may recommence (it’s trapped to the fourth inning, with a score tied and a season just beginning). The minutes are slow for them; the seconds are anxious; and they’re starting to unravel, unable to contain their adrenaline, unable to deny their worry. There is mutiny in the air… and you know what you must do.

You begin to regale them with stories, pass out energy infused drinks and healthy snacks (their energy must be maintained, offered the necessary nutrition). You question them about statistics and plays. Every word becomes a distraction, stealing their attention from the rain and placing it purely on you.

And, when the storm finally settles, they’re able to take the field with confidence.

The notion of a team mom is often burdened to thoughts of bake sales and budgeting, the roster formations and mini-van shuttling. There is more to this, however, than simple organization. It is instead defined to support.

Team moms are responsible for the well-being of all players. They are to ensure that children are happy, healthy and without the dreaded scowls. They must entertain, amuse and distract — allowing all to gain the needed comfort, not be overwhelmed by the inevitable concerns. Surrogacy is the intention of these individuals: they are parents to all; they are the caregivers for a game.

And this must be understood by any who wish to consider taking on the position. There is a greater responsibility than offering cookies and chauffeuring players back and forth. There is instead the need to keep spirits high and minds focused — and this can be difficult.

Team mothers are truly that: mothers. They must be willing to offer the necessary aid and provide relief whenever it is needed; and it will be, they’ll discover, needed all the time.