Beats Working for a Living

An open date on the schedule had us musing on the meaning of leadership and what make s leader. Balls, Sticks & Stuff prompted this with a post, and we shared the beginning of our thoughts, but we have more on this. We'll be at the game Sunday vs. the Reds, so there's more time for us to develop our outlook on this key aspect of our team. That post will appear by early next week, we're thinking.

Thanks to knowing the right people, caught looking will work tonight as the celebrity member of the Washington Nationals grounds crew at the Nats-Mets game. It provides a rare instance of us pulling for the home team. But it also illustrates why this is a great country. This is one of the dream jobs we've had on the list for quite a while, probably since little league. We hope somehow there's a camera phone to catch it on "film."

What's it like to work the grounds crew? We'll know when we do it, but here are the conditions sent around prior to the experience. Notice that it actually pays, $40.

Tarp crew members must report to the game 2 hours prior to the start of the game. The tarp crew GM or assigned member will meet you at the gate and provide a game credential so you may enter the stadium. You are able to park for free in lot 8a.

As you enter stadium parking, provide the attendant your name and he/she will verify that you are on the parking list.

In terms of attire, please wear khaki shorts / pants and sneakers. A tarp crew t-shirt will be provided upon arrival. No hats may be worn other than a Nationals' hat.

From start to finish, the day is usually 5 hours long. As staff, you are able to bring food and drink into the stadium. You may also purchase food and drink from vendors, but they only take cash and it can be a bit costly.

During the National Anthem please stand in a straight line about a yard from the photo dugout. When we are tasked on the field, please hustle, no idle strolling.

Upon completion of the game, the Crew GM will collect your credential and provide payment. Payment is $40 per game.

Also:
-No drinking of alcoholic beverages
-No fraternization with the teams
-Your t-shirt must be tucked in while working and if you wear a hat, the bill must be faced forward at all times.
-When we finish our workday leave the stadium, no loitering in unauthorized areas.
-Stay out of dugouts and bullpens unless on a specific task.
-Most of all….. have FUN because we have some of the best seats in the house!

We won't be able to wear our Chase t-shirt, though.