The air in Scottsdale, Arizona, buzzed with excitement as the 18th Annual Diamondbacks Fantasy Camp began. For one rookie coach, Ryan Roberts, this week promised an adventure filled with baseball, teamwork, and unforgettable memories. Fans of the game gathered to experience the thrill of stepping onto the Cactus League fields at Talking Stick, learning from former MLB players, and fulfilling childhood dreams. This was a unique chance for amateur players to play and be coached alongside some of their baseball heroes.
Ryan felt privileged to join legends like Luis Gonzales, World Series champions such as Jay Bell and Greg Swindell, Gold Glover Mark Grace, and players like Joe Saunders, Scott Hairston, and Greg Colbrunn. Among them was Matt Williams, his former Third-Base Coach with the Diamondbacks and now the Third-Base Coach for the San Francisco Giants. Roberts also faced off against other seasoned coaches—former players he had once admired and old teammates. This friendly rivalry added to the camp’s lively atmosphere, filled with playful banter reminiscent of clubhouse camaraderie—a dynamic Ryan has deeply missed during his time away from the game. The camp offered participants a glimpse into the life of a Major League ballplayer, celebrating the joy of baseball and the lasting friendships forged through shared experiences.
A Fun Welcome
Upon his arrival, Ryan was met with a surprising gift: his locker was adorned with rookie stickers and a sparkly kiddie backpack from the LOL brand, acknowledging his rookie status and led to many laughs throughout the week. Being the fun-loving heart and hustle guy he is, Ryan embraced the antics, which contributed to the camp's jovial atmosphere. Adding to the humor was the camp's "Kangaroo Court," an MLB mock justice system where players are fined for breaking rules, resulting in penalties that kept everyone entertained.
The Players and the Draft
With 75 eager participants, excitement filled the air on the first day of camp. Most were returning campers familiar with the camaraderie and competition promised at Fantasy Camp. The day kicked off with a skills assessment, leading to team drafts. After the draft concluded, Ryan introduced his team with his partner, Coach Joe Saunders, boldly declaring they would be the next champions. As the week unfolded, Ryan’s predictions turned out to be spot on, as the strong bond formed among players and coaches became central to their success. He has already been asked back for next year's camp, a testament to how well he fit in.
Game Time and the Thrill of Competition
The tournament involved six games, and Ryan’s team had an impressive record of 5-1, showcasing their teamwork and determination. Roberts thrived in this role, but it wasn’t just the victories that stood out—what Roberts enjoyed most was the trash-talking locker room banter, the laughs, and being back on the field with players who were all in for the experience. The perfect mix of serious competition and fun camaraderie made the week unforgettable.
Reflection on the Experience
Reflecting on the week, Roberts recognized he had been part of something special. The Diamondbacks Fantasy Camp far exceeded his expectations. Having returned to Arizona several times in recent years for the World Series, the team’s 25th anniversary, and other appearances, this experience was some of the most fun he’s had. Roberts is definitely looking forward to more time with the organization he’s grown fond of since 2009. As Fantasy Camp came to a close, each of his players left with more than just a championship title; they took away incredible stories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
Events like the Diamondbacks Fantasy Camp give fans a unique way to connect deeply with their favorite sport. Whether a player, coach, or passionate fan, the memories made at camp are truly meaningful. As Roberts looks back on his “rookie year” as a coach, it’s an experience he won’t forget.
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