Coach’s Corner Interview with Wendy Gomez, head of our 9U Falcons
How did you end up becoming a part of our Falcons program?
I became a Falcon in 2005, my senior year of high school, after playing for the Bonnies with Charles Lalane for several years. So when his brother Carlos Lalane founded the current Falcons program, I came on board.
Where did you grow up and what sports did you play growing up?
I grew up in Bushwick and moved to East New York in my teenage years. I’ve played organized baseball since I was 12 years old. Growing up in my neighborhood we played basketball, football, handball—anything to keep us active.
What's your favorite memory or moment on a baseball field?
My favorite memory on the baseball field is when the Falcons played in a league named the Zorilla. Back in the day, this league was our dream to be a part of—the MLB of amateur baseball. Back then, we were all college kids so the other teams didn’t take us serious, but once we started playing, we went undefeated and won the championship. We shocked everyone!
What daily routine did you pick up during quarantine that you kept as a good habit?
Washing my hands! Now more that ever because I worked through the whole pandemic and am still going strong.
Who is your favorite baseball player? Why?
My favorite player was Rey Ordonez from the Mets. He wasn’t the best hitter but he was a team player who knew his role on the field. His glove saved games for my Mets, and yes, I’m a Met fan for life. #LGM
What's the most important thing you try to teach our younger Falcons that you hope will stick with them as they grow up and play at higher levels?
The best advice for our youth is to listen and learn from the players and coaches around them. Baseball is a marathon not a race. Every day, we see professionals still learning the game and we all need to have that mentality and look for how to improve.
What's some smart advice you can give parents of our younger Falcons as they bring their kids into our program and adjust to the commitments of travel baseball?
Support your kids and remain patient. Their time will come with consistency and hard work. And trust your coaches and organization—we are in this together!
If I had to tell all Falcons players to read one book it would be...
Baseball Dads
If I had to tell all Falcons players to watch one inspiring movie or YouTube video it would be...
Trouble with the Curve
What's the best advice you ever got from another player or coach that wasn't just for baseball but has guided you through life?
Being a good teammate goes a long way. One day the best man and groomsmen at your wedding will come from this diamond. Through blood, sweat and tears playing this game together creates bonds for a lifetime.
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