Vin, Harry, and Me – The Touch of Class

Vin Scully – May He Rest In Peace

To be the best there ever was at something is remarkable, but to never hear anyone say anything negative about a person is what legendary is all about.

Interestingly, I had only spent a short stint with the Los Angeles Dodgers, one month each for two consecutive years, but 90% of my exciting stories came from those times even though I played years elsewhere. That’s Hollywood for you, I suppose. Here is one of those stories.

Because of my limited time with the Big-League Dodger club, I had little contact with the best sports announcer there ever was, Vin Scully. I can only imagine his call when I made what I consider my most outstanding play ever on a routine groundball but in an extremely tense situation. That is a story for another day, but it wouldn’t surprise me if it didn’t include him saying beforehand, “I hope they hit the ball anywhere but to the second baseman,” which was me. I joke, of course, as that was what I was thinking. My wish did not come true, but I made the play! Wondering how Vin made the call?

Just Remembered

Anyway, my Vin Scully story occurred many years later, 25 to be exact. I returned to Dodger Stadium in 2006 for the 25th reunion of our 1981 World Series Championship. Once again, having a minor role with the team for the regular season’s final month, I was a forgettable player. And such was my experience upon my return all those years later, as some coaches, team personnel, and even some players and our Hall of Fame manager, Tommy Lasorda, did not recall who I was at first sight. Very understandable, as 25 years is a long time, and I took no offense.

 However, while still roaming the reunion area, I am approaching Vin Scully, who is with a front office person. Before I say anything, Vin says, “Jack Perconte, still smiling as ever.” Wow, thunderstruck am I, thinking, “Of all people, how does Vin Scully know me and remember that I like to smile?” When so many others had forgotten me, to be recognized and remembered by Vin Scully – indeed a moment I have never forgotten.

That memory is a study in “Class” – it goes beyond what one does; it is who one is and how one lives. Vin, you exemplified dignity, didn’t forget me, and I will never forget you. Thank you, and I wish I could be more like you were to me when I run into old friends and acquaintances. I will try harder to be like you.

Harry Caray – Another Touch of Class

I had another similar experience in my playing days. Having played most of my career in the American League, I was never in a game called by another broadcasting icon, Harry Caray. As a member of the Seattle Mariners, we are playing a spring training game, which I don’t remember but assume was against the Chicago Cubs. As I come out of the Mariner dugout pregame, I hear this booming voice say, “Joliet Jack.” You guessed it – Harry. Now, how he knew me and that I was from Joliet, I will never know. I suppose he had done his homework before the game, but I remember that moment as if yesterday, and it still feels good.

As mentioned, I remember the game that day, not at all. In fact, very few games over my many years of playing baseball are all that memorable. But what is remembered is the fantastic people I encountered along the way, especially those who made me feel special. Thank you, Harry, you made my day, and I will never forget the feeling and the “Class” of greatness.

Both sportscasting icons reinforce my coaching philosophy - A few years from now your players will remember nothing what you said, but forever they will remember how you made them feel.”

Finally, I recall an interview with another legend, coach John Wooden. When asked how he would like to be remembered when he passed, he said, “Just remembered.” I guess that is all any of us can ask.

Of course, to be recognized and remembered while still around is even better. Happy Trails!

ebook - Coming soon