Road to Williamsport

A small town group of scrappy kids jump at the opportunity to play in a real Little League Game and end up making it all the way to Williamsport.

FADE IN
EXT. FARM - DAY
MR. MCGRAW (70), a scrappy old man, plows the field behind a red barn off a dirt road that leads to the main street.
A baseball RATTLES his tractor and lands on the ground. He stops just in time before the blades destroy it.
KYLE
Sorry, sir!
He patiently rolls his gross, chewed up cigar around to the other side of his mouth and climbs out.
He reaches for the baseball, rolls it around in his hands, gives it a good look, grips it like he knows how and whips it-
-to KYLE (12), who zeros in on its flight, catches the ball, surprisingly. He removes his hand from the mitt like it stings.
KYLE
Thanks for that.
Kyle turns away baffled and heads back to the dirt road where a group of dusty kids play ball.
BUDDY
Old man’s got an arm.
KYLE
Buddy, try to keep it in the field.
BUDDY (12), holds a bat.
He looks at the vast joke of an area they use as a field.
BUDDY
Yeah sure, Kyle.
LATER
Little JOEY (10) stands in a makeshift batters box carved in the dirt, tightens his gloves even though he doesn’t have any, swings his bat like a windmill, kicks dirt like a bull and stares down at-
-Kyle who’s pitching. Kyle stands there nonchalant.
KYLE
Are you done, Joey?
Joey swings his bat halfway, ready for the delivery.
Kyle winds up and guns it home.
Joey swings and BLASTS it over the outfielder. It bounces into the brush along the edge of the farmer’s field.
The outfielder SLIDES feet first into the brush in pursuit of the ball. He quickly stands up, startled. He looks into the thick of the weeds and small trees.
We hear “Buddy, come on!”, “Get it!” Joey rounds second base and slows down to see the problem.  
A small scrawny PUPPY pops up from the tall grass, Buddy takes after it.
BUDDY
Guys, it’s a puppy!
The gang charges the outfield to see. The pup is harmless and  friendly, rolling on its back. Buddy toys with it. The gang’s excited “Cool!”, “It’s so tiny.”
JOEY
And ugly!
KYLE
Dudes, maybe we should leave it alone.
BUDDY
Why? He’s awesome!
KYLE
Buddy, leave it.
Little CADY, a 7 year old rag doll, works her way between the ballplayers and picks the puppy up off the ground.
CADY
He’s cute.
Kyle’s frantic, focuses on a different subject.
From a distance, a very mad COYOTE charges them, GROWLS, ready to kill.
Cady, nearest the coyote, is scared straight and drops the pup to the ground. The vicious coyote has all the kids scared stiff.
BANG! YELP. The coyote lays dead just a few yards from Cady.
Mr. McGraw aims his shotgun. Light smoke billows from the chamber. All the kids turn their head to see Mr. McGraw. He lowers the gun.
MR. MCGRAW
Grab the pup.
Mr. McGraw heads for the red barn.
The kids stand there, shocked while the pup looks for attention from its motionless mother.
KYLE
Buddy, grab the pup.
BUDDY
I ain’t grabbing it! You grab it!
KYLE
I ain’t grabbing it! Joey, grab it.
Joey looks very unsure.
CADY
Poor thing.
Cady willingly makes her way to the pup. She’s just about to grab it when --
KYLE
Grrrr arrr aarrrr!
Cady jumps back and SCREAMS.
CADY
Kyle!
All the kids laugh hysterically.
INT. RED BARN - DAY
Mr. McGraw nurtures the pup. The kids are circled around.
MR. MCGRAW
I see you guys almost have a full team here.
KYLE
We play no right field.
MR. MCGRAW
The game must go on.
CADY
You think we can keep him, Mister?
MR. MCGRAW
Nope! Not a coyote. Too wild. We’ll feed him a couple weeks. Make sure he’s good and strong.
KYLE
Come on dudes. We’ll give Joey a ground rule double.
JOEY
What? No way, Kyle! I’d a made it home for sure.
They all argue as they make their way out. Mr. McGraw looks impressed, he sets the pup in a cardboard box. Cady steals an extra look at the pup.
CADY
Thanks for saving us, Mister.
She tosses the ball in and out of her mitt and walks away.
Mr. McGraw grins.
EXT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - DAY
SHELLY(31), steps onto the porch from inside the house. Pretty sexy for a mom. Hair done nicely. A pris.
SHELLY
Supper! Come and eat.
Cady and Kyle race up the graveled driveway past the car.
INT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - CONTINUOUS
Shelly sets the table when Cady and Kyle come in through the front door.
KYLE
Mmmm Chicken!
SHELLY
Wash your hands.
LATER
The Blankenheimer’s enjoy their dinner.
CADY
And he shot it and killed it!
KYLE
I swear it would a bit Cady.
SHELLY
You kids gotta be careful out there, rabies and all. You have no idea-
A KNOCK at the door. Shelly goes to answer it. Kyle peeks.
KYLE
He’s the man that shot the coyote, Ma.
SHELLY
The kids were just telling me about the coy...
Mr. McGraw has the box with the pup.
SHELLY
...ote.
MR. MCGRAW
I thought as much and I’m sorry to intrude. May I?
SHELLY
Of course. Thank God you were there. You hungry?
Shelly opens the screen door.
MR. MCGRAW
Nah! Just thought I’d stop by to make sure all is good. Just a lil’ excitement and well, I’s hoping the kids might do me a small favor.
Cady and Kyle look at each other confused.
MR. MCGRAW
I’m a be out a town next couple weeks way over in Pennsylvania. Kind a unexpected. Thought the kids here can look after the pup til I get back.
SHELLY
They’d be happy to, Mister...
MR. MCGRAW
McGraw.
SHELLY
Wouldn’t you guys?
Mr. McGraw looks in the box.
MR. MCGRAW
I brought all he needs and just a lil’ T.L.C. should be alright.
The kids are happy to oblige. They take the box from him.
MR. MCGRAW
My sister’s farm been vacant all these years. Well, since she passed away. Trying my hand at farming.
SHELLY
I saw. How’s that going for you?
MR. MCGRAW
Not as easy as it looks.
SHELLY
The land hasn’t been turned since we moved here a few years ago.
Mr. McGraw nods.
MR. MCGRAW
Hard on the blades... That’s quite an arm your son, has on him.
SHELLY
Sorry?
MR. MCGRAW
Been seeing the boys play ball next to the old barn.
CADY
That’s where he shot it, Mom.
MR. MCGRAW
Coyotes ain’t normally that vicious but I knew as soon as she had a grip on her pup.
CADY
I didn’t know it was a coyote, Mom!
SHELLY
It’s okay, Cady. I really am glad you were there.
MR. MCGRAW
Say, Miss-
SHELLY
You can call me Shelly.
MR. MCGRAW
Why you suppose the town don’t have a field for these kids to play on?
SHELLY
It’s come up a few times at the school but there’s hardly enough kids and no money. There is that backstop in the school yard. Why don’t you kids play there, Kyle?
KYLE
There’s no dirt, Mom. And the grass is like a foot high all the time.
SHELLY
Should have known it’s all about the dirt. Is it a problem, the boys playing on the road?
MR. MCGRAW
Heavens no! It’s just where I grew up, we had a ball field. Helped with all the dreams and imagination, you know?
SHELLY
I sure do. I’d imagine all the same things wanting to be an astronaut.
Shelly laughs at herself.
MR. MCGRAW
Right. Well, I should probably get going. You kids look after that pup, now.
SHELLY
Nice to finally meet you.
He and Shelly shake hands.
EXT. FARM - DAY
Kyle and Cady tend to the slightly bigger pup on the side of the dirt road near the red barn.
CADY
If you got a guy on first and second or the bases loaded and less than two outs.
KYLE
Right.
CADY
And there’s a pop up on the infield, the batter’s out, automatically.
Cady whips a baseball in her mitt chewing her gum.
KYLE
Exactly. Here they come.
Buddy, Joey and the rest of the kids join them on the dirt road.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
Fly ball to Joey. He runs and makes a spectacular catch.
Cady tries to catch a throw home but misses. She has to run and shag it.
Kyle swings the bat and cranks a long one.
Buddy makes a diving catch at third base.
Cady misses the ball again. She runs to shag it.
A hot ground ball to the shortstop. He gloves it, flips it to the 2nd baseman who sidearms it to the 1st baseman.
Cady jumps for the ball and misses, throws her mitt down angrily and walks for the ball.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
JOEY
(from home plate)
If ya learn to catch it, you wouldn’t be shagging it all day.
Cady looks back at Joey, meanly.
A pickup truck pulls up the long road. It’s Mr. McGraw and CHARLES (12).
Cady picks the ball up, runs off the drive to make way.
Mr. McGraw swings the door shut and grabs a couple of bags from the bed of the truck. Charles, a taller, studly boy, leans on the truck watches the boys play ball.
CHARLES
What kind of field is that, Grandpa?
MR. MCGRAW
Grab your things, Charles.
Charles grabs all but one sack that is slightly opened. A catcher’s MASK lays on top of it.
LATER
An intimidating Charles, in full catchers gear, walks from the farmhouse to the road where the kids play ball.
Kyle, Buddy and the others are like “wow” when they notice the large catcher in full gear. They meet up with Charles near home plate.
CHARLES
Gramps says, you guys might need a catcher.
JOEY
S**t yeah!
BUDDY
Holy crap!
KYLE
He’s your grandpa? How old are you?
CHARLES
Twelve. I’m Charles.
KYLE
Okay, Charles, get behind the plate.
Charles adjusts his face mask and squats behind home plate. The others run to their positions.
Kyle fires the ball home. Charles gloves the pitch. Kyle smiles, impressed with Charles.
LATER
Mr. McGraw sits on his tailgate, feeding the little coyote. The kids, sweaty and exhausted, walk towards him.
BUDDY
That was an awesome throw down to second, Charles.
Charles smiles. He pats the dust off his mask. The kids ramble on.
MR. MCGRAW
You kids did a nice job raising this lil’ coyote.
Kyle nods.
CADY
No problem, Mister. Is that meat?
MR. MCGRAW
Hey boys!
They null their gibberish, turn their attention to Mr. McGraw.
MR. MCGRAW
How would you like to play in a real game?
Their eyes widen, jaws drop.
KYLE
You kidding, Mister?
BUDDY
Awesome, you can do that?
MR. MCGRAW
One game. You lose, you go home. If you win, you get another game.
All the boys are thrilled and high five each other.
MR. MCGRAW
I got all the equipment and Charles’ gonna be here all summer.
KYLE
Yeah, cool, he rocks!
MR. MCGRAW
Just need permission from your parents and your birth certificates. Oh and ah, I’m the coach.
A hush falls over the kids.
KYLE
Wait, what?
Charles smiles reassuringly.
MR. MCGRAW
Three nights a week and batting practice Saturday mornings. Who’s in?
KYLE
Yeah, how about it, dudes?
They’re enthusiastic and LOUD.
MR. MCGRAW
Hey! I’ve watched you all playing out here. I’m impressed! You all got what it takes.
The boys nod their heads like sure, we’re good.
MR. MCGRAW
A little fine tuning and you’ll give them a run for the money.
McGraw bucks up.
MR. MCGRAW
Monday, four o’clock sharp! But, before you go.
McGraw walks to the brush along side the drive. The kids all follow. McGraw lets the coyote go free.
All the kids SIGH.
INT. SCHOOL - DAY
Shelly lags behind some other TEACHERS that have their arms full with personal belongings. MELISA, same age as Shelly, turns and gives Shelly a wave goodbye.
MR. GIBBONS (50), the school principal, sees them off.
SHELLY
Have a great summer everybody. See you next year, I suppose. See you soon, Melisa.
MELISA
I’ll call you.
Melisa holds her hand to her ear like a phone.
GIBBONS
Thank you all for a wonderful year. And sorry we haven’t the funds for the ball field, Ms. Blankenheimer.
SHELLY
Maybe next year, Mister Gibbons.
They all give their regards parting ways out the entrance.
EXT. SCHOOL - DAY
Mr. McGraw leans against the brick wall of the school that’s adjacent to the paved parking lot. He twirls his cigar in his mouth.
A bucket of balls sits about 40 feet from the wall in the middle of the lot.
The kids stroll up to the school grounds and see Mr. McGraw.
JOEY
What the hell is this?
KYLE
Let’s just see, dudes.
They walk as far as the bucket of balls. Charles closes the door to his grandpa’s truck, meets the other kids.
CADY
What’s with the balls, Mister?
Kyle reaches in the bucket and grabs a ball.
KYLE
They’re rubber.
MR. MCGRAW
Throw it at me.
KYLE
What?
The other kids believe it to be very odd.
MR. MCGRAW
Throw it at my head!
Kyle hesitates.
CHARLES
Just throw it at him.
MR. MCGRAW
Throw it!
KYLE
Fine, Mister.
Kyle reaches back and fires a blazing pitch at Mr. McGraw’s head.
The SIZZLING ball is just about to hit Mr. McGraw in the face when he casually turns his head and SMASH, SPARKS fly. The ball hits his cigar and rips it out from between his lips, bounces off the wall and caroms back to Kyle.
KYLE
Sorry!
MR. MCGRAW
Don’t be sorry, Son. Another.
Kyle grabs another ball and whips it. McGraw casually ducks his head to the side to avoid the ball.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
Buddy throws a ball at Mr. McGraw.
Joey throws one.
Arnie throws one.
Charles and the others. Each time the coach avoids the ball.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
Shelly chats with two TEACHERS. They walk through the parking lot unbeknownst the team.
Cady throws a ball at Mr. McGraw. He reaches out and snags it from the air with one hand. He chuckles and takes a few steps towards the boys, rubbing the ball.
Shelly parts from the teachers. She notices the team. She walks slowly towards her car eavesdropping curiously.
MR. MCGRAW
You boys got it here.
McGraw points to his heart.
MR. MCGRAW
And you got it here.
He points to his head.
MR. MCGRAW
You need it here...
He points to his eyes.
MR. MCGRAW
...and here
He holds out his hand.
MR. MCGRAW
My turn.
All the kids line up along the brick wall.
The coach winds up.
JOEY
Holy crap, dudes, he’s going to bean us!
SHELLY
Excuse me!
Mr. McGraw whips the ball, turns quickly to see Shelly.
The ball CLUNKS Kyle in his back.
SHELLY
Kyle! Oh my God! Kyle are you okay?
She runs to his aid. Kyle obviously isn’t hurt.
KYLE
Mom, what are you doing?
SHELLY
Are you okay, honey?
KYLE
Mom!
She turns right back to Mr. McGraw.
SHELLY
What the hell is this?
McGraw is a bit speechless.
SHELLY
What is going on here? Why would you throw the ball at my son like that? Why are you even here?
KYLE
Mom, I’m okay!
MR. MCGRAW
He’s supposed to move out of the way.
SHELLY
Kyle, I think you and your sister should just get in the car and come home.
CADY
This old man is our new coach, Mom. And he’s going to get us in a real game. We just need our birth certrifff... i... cates.
SHELLY
Coach? What is she talking about?
MR. MCGRAW
You ever heard of Little League, Ma’am?
SHELLY
We don’t have Little League in this puny town, Mr. McGraw.
MR. MCGRAW
Well, you do now.
Shelly rolls her eyes, folds her arms.
MR. MCGRAW
I took the liberty of registering Elizabeth while I was in P.A.
SHELLY
Why would you go and do that? They barely have enough to make a team.
MR. MCGRAW
Nine’s all you need.
SHELLY
No. I don’t like this. I don’t think your moms will agree either.
KYLE
It’s one game.
CADY
Yeah, its just one game, Mom.
They look at her compassionately.
SHELLY
So this is your method? Dodge ball!
MR. MCGRAW
Miss, give it a chance. They’re just rubber balls.
She struggles for words.
SHELLY
Kyle, don’t be late for dinner.
Shelly turns away frustrated.
EXT. FARM - DAY
A sports car speeds up the drive, dust in its trail. The car brakes and skids. A Pennsylvania license plate on the back of the car.
JAMES (35), a handsome guy, wears business attire, gets out. He swings his suit jacket over his shoulder, heads for the house.
Mr. McGraw and Charles pull up the drive in the truck.
INT. MCGRAW’S TRUCK - CONTINUOUS
Mr. McGraw and Charles notice the sports car.
CHARLES
Dad’s here!
EXT. FARM - CONTINUOUS
James notices the truck drive up. Charles jumps out and hurries towards his dad (James).
MR. MCGRAW
What’s up city slicker?
JAMES
Hello, Father.
MR. MCGRAW
Change of plans, James?
Charles gives his dad a hug.
JAMES
Yes. A potential ah, client in Davenport. John Deere.
MR. MCGRAW
Nice. What does that mean for Charles?
JAMES
Well, depends on how my meetings go.
Charles is confused, then seems to figure it out.
MR. MCGRAW
Meetings?
CHARLES
You mean a job out here, Dad? What about us? Me and Mom?
JAMES
Well Son, that’s what makes it so terribly hard. But this may be my only option.
CHARLES
Great! First you guys get divorced and now you’re leaving?
JAMES
Look, I talked to your mother about it. We’re going to leave it up to you, Charles. You want to stay with her in Pennsylvania, that’s fine. If you’d rather live with me, where ever that may be, that’s fine too.
CHARLES
Can I still stay with Grandpa, here, for the summer?
JAMES
Of course.
James rests his hand on Charles’s shoulder.
MR. MCGRAW
That gives us plenty of time to get it sorted out. Let’s just get some supper.
The three of them head for the farmhouse.
INT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - NIGHT
Shelly clears the dinner table. Cady looks mad with her arms folded. Kyle is wearing an angry face.
SHELLY
I don’t think so, Kyle. And what about Joey’s mom? They have no money. No car.
KYLE
He didn’t say anything about  money, Ma. Please!
SHELLY
Let’s just talk about it later.
KYLE
This sucks.
SHELLY
Watch your mouth!
KYLE
We spend half the summer in Chicago. All my friends are here.
SHELLY
I have friends too, you know. What about your Uncle Mike? Your dad’s family.
KYLE
They’re all ghetto.
Kyle storms off to his room. Cady gives her mom a mean look and follows Kyle. The room gets quiet. Shelly’s appalled, grabs more dishes.
KITCHEN
Shelly sets the dishes in the sink.
SHELLY
I don’t know if I can trust this guy. He could be a retired serial killer for all I know.
Shelly looks at a PHOTO of a military man on the counter, toys with a wedding band on her finger.
SHELLY
These are the times I wish you were  here, Bradford.
INT. GROCERY STORE - DAY
The team hangs out in the store. Arnie uses a dollar to buy  gum. They all stare at the dismal display of fireworks.
BUDDY
You know, in Indiana, they sell big time fireworks like cherry bombs and m-eighties!
KYLE
Yeah this stuff is for dweebs.
CADY
Kyle, I wanna get some poppers.
KYLE
Fine, Cady! You little dweeb.
Kyle grabs a box of poppers.
EXT. SCHOOL - DAY
The kids play catch at the school. Cady and a couple others throw poppers at each other.
Mr. McGraw drives up and parks near the edge where the lot meets the overgrown field with the backstop. The kids walk to meet him.
Mr. McGraw grabs a heavy bucket of gravel from the bed of his truck and sets it on the ground.
He grabs wooden dowel rods and divvies them out to the kids. They’re dumbfounded.
LATER
The kids are lined up along the edge.
Each with a pile of gravel on the ground. They all toss up small rocks and swing at them with the dowel rods.
The bats WHIFF each time they miss.
BUDDY
This sucks, coach!
MR. MCGRAW
What’s the matter?
KYLE
It’s impossible!
All the kids pause.
McGraw grabs Buddy’s stick. He picks up a rock, tosses it up, and swings the stick. CRACK, the rock SIZZLES, flying into the field.
MR. MCGRAW
I down right cleared my folks driveway as a kid. Keep swinging!
They get back at it.
LATER
CRACK, SIZZLE... CRACK, SIZZLE...
The intense SOUNDS of whiffing bats, cracks and sizzles echo off the school walls.
MR. MCGRAW
There ya go, Kyle.
Mr. McGraw smiles, impressed with the kids.
MR. MCGRAW
Alright guys lets wrap it up.
KYLE
When we gonna to get back to some real baseball, Coach?
MR. MCGRAW
Don’t you boys worry about it. See you all on Monday. Grab the bag, Charles.
Mr. McGraw heads for his truck.
CHARLES
He’s got some weird ways, but he has more trophies than the Hall of Fame! See you dudes later.
Charles grabs the bag.

INT. BLANKENHEIMER’S CAR - DAY
Shelly, Kyle and Cady drive down the main street.
SHELLY
I’m still not sure about this, Kyle! So, let’s just wait and see.
KYLE
Can you just look it up on your laptop? Little League dot com.
They pull into the school lot. Their eyes widen, staring out the windshield.
More cars are there ahead of them. The other kids and their PARENTS stand near McGraw’s truck which is parked near the rusty backstop.
As Shelly drives closer, There’s a Bobcat machine, a dump truck and a riding lawn mower. The grass is cut and it’s been removed to make an infield.
EXT. SCHOOL - CONTINUOUS
Kyle and Cady jump out of the car and high five their teammates. Shelly shuts her door.
CADY
Awesome, Mister McGraw.
James appears from behind the dump truck, dusts the dirt off his nice clothes, unaware of a SMUDGE on the tip of his nose.
SHELLY
It’s real nice Mr. McGraw. You’re going through a lot of trouble.
MR. MCGRAW
Well, if the boys are going to play in a real game, they need a real field to practice on.
SHELLY
Wait, but I’m - We don’t even know you! And you kids are out here almost everyday. It’s too much.
KYLE
We don’t care, Mom.
CADY
They need the practice.
Shelly addresses the other parents.
SHELLY
You all okay with this?
ALICE (30’s), Joey’s mom, a bit weathered, pulls Joey close.
ALICE
You ain’t one of them predators, are ya?
James gets a perturbed look.
JAMES
Just hold on a second.
He walks to the center of attention.
JAMES
My father has probably coached more Little League games than any man in America. And he does it because he loves the game, and you know what? He’s damn good at it. God knows he tried shoving this stupid sport down my throat.
MR. MCGRAW
Sometimes sports skip a generation.
JAMES
(spontaneously)
If it makes you feel any better, I’ll be going too.
SHELLY
Seriously? Bozo.
James gets embarrassed when all the kids LAUGH. He looks cross eyed and wipes the smudge off with his sleeve.
JAMES
My name is James, I’m Charles’ Father.
Most of the parents and kids PLEA in favor of Mr. McGraw.
SHELLY
You all going to trust him? Just like that. Have you seen the drills he has these kids doing? Alice.
ALICE
Well, I wouldn’t mind going, see Joey play. That damn bar.
CADY
He saved our lives, Mom.
McGraw chuckles.
KYLE
It’s just one game, Mom. Please!
Random parents BLURT out, convincingly.
Shelly appears to buckle. She cricks her jaw and rolls her eyes.
SHELLY
Fine!
MR. MCGRAW
Great! We’ll be needing one of them there buses.
SHELLY
What? No way! You think Mister Gibbons. No way. Ain’t never gonna  happen.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY
Shelly has a mean look on her face while she steers the bus down Route 20. James sits behind Shelly, pokes his head around to see.
JAMES
Really nice of you to volunteer, Shelly.
SHELLY
Shut it, James! If it wasn’t for the damn insurance. Could be home tending my garden, enjoying my summer vacation, but no. I gotta be Miss Baseball Mom.
James smiles. Alice is a few rows back.
ALICE
I know I left something on.
Alice thinks real hard.
MR. MCGRAW
Ninety nine bottles of beer on the wall. Ninety nine bottles of beer...
James, all the kids and a couple other parents join in the song.
Shelly rolls her eyes.
LATER
The bus drives into the lot filled with other buses and many vehicles. Kids with top notch uniforms run around playing. Many parents cook out, pop up tents and tailgate.
The kids and a few parents look out the windows with insecure faces, intimidated. Coach McGraw can sense it.
Shelly could care less. She cranks open the door.
SHELLY
Finally! I gotta pee like a-
Those solemn faces look at Shelly.
SHELLY
Well what’s the matter? Let’s go get em’.
MR. MCGRAW
Before we get out there I just wanna say one thing.
McGraw stands in the aisle.
MR. MCGRAW
Well, many years ago, I thought I’d given all this up. Hung up my hat, if you will. Watching you boys play on the road showed me things I ain’t seen in a long time. You all got it here and here.
He points to his heart and mind.
MR. MCGRAW
Most of the kids out there, got it here and here.
He points to his mouth and pocket. He walks to the back of the bus where they have their equipment.
MR. MCGRAW
Little League has just a few simple rules, that most of the coaches and parents take a lil’ too serious.
McGraw opens a cardboard box.
CADY
You brought the coyote?
MR. MCGRAW
Well, not exactly, Cady.
He reaches in the box and drags out a brown T-shirt with a sketch of a coyote and the word, “Coyotes” on the front, bold numbers on the back.
ALICE
See, Joe, uniforms!
The kids cheer and high five each other.
MR. MCGRAW
And I don’t want no excuses about the sun being in your eyes.
He drags out a stack of baseball hats with the same coyote emblem. McGraw snaps one open and puts it on his head.
Shelly smiles in awe. James is impressed.
JAMES
Can you believe this guy?
SHELLY
No. I really can’t.
I/E. - PORTABLE TOILET - DAY
Shelly knocks on the door to a portable toilet. She knocks again. She tries to open the door. It’s jammed.
SHELLY
Aaaah, screw it!
She walks to another one. A disgusting FAT GUY exits as she approaches.
SHELLY
It’s only a couple more hours.
She eyes the handicap one, looks around inconspicuously.
SHELLY
What the hell.
It’s so nasty inside. The lock on the door is gone.
SHELLY
Damn!
She knocks the lid down with her foot.
SHELLY
Oh my God!
Shelly squats on the seat with a most fearful look on her face as she stares at the door.
SHELLY
Oh please God. Please, please, please.
A look of satisfaction. TINKLE. The door CREEKS open a bit.
SHELLY
Get out!
Nobody’s there, it’s just the wind.
EXT. ILLINOIS DISTRICT TOURNAMENT / TRI-CITIES - DAY
The UMPIRE grasps his face mask. Many Tri-City advertisements posted in the background.
UMPIRE
Play ball!
Joey fudges with his helmet, wipes his hand on his blue jeans. He steps into the batters box, goes through all the motions. He finally gets set, looks up and SMACK. The catcher gloves the first pitch.
UMPIRE
Strike one!
Joey looks to the umpire like he was cheated. His teammates cheer him on from the dugout.
The catcher gives a sign. One finger and points at Joey.
The pitcher, in his bright and shiny uniform, winds up and throws the ball. A SIZZLING fast ball right at Joey’s head. Joey stares it down the whole way and calmly turns his face at the last split second. He smiles and looks at the catcher.
JOEY
Mmmm. Smells like baseball.
Coach McGraw is impressed with Joey.
UMPIRE
(to the pitcher)
This is a warning, kid!
Shelly, James, Alice and a couple other parents sit on the bleachers, stunned. Shelly stands up quickly.
SHELLY
Hey! Can he do that?
ALICE
Show em’ what ya got, Joey!
The stuck-up audience have the outsiders isolated in the stands, peeking over their shoulders at the Coyote fans.
The catcher drops two fingers and points at Joey.
The pitcher winds up and throws the ball right at Joey’s head again. Joey stares down the spinning ball. It curves, Joey swings and CRACK. The ball lines into right field all the way to the fence.
The Coyote’s heroic fans cheer and then are frowned upon by the majority for their over enthusiasm.
Joey rounds first and slides into second base, safe.
SHELLY
Wow, Alice! What a slugger you got there.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
Cady runs and grabs the bat near home plate. Her hat is way too big for her head. She returns the bat to the dugout.
Buddy dives and scoops up a grounder. Gets up and throws to Arnie at first base to get the out.
Kyle swings and drives one over the fence. Trots around the bases, humbly.
Charles whips the ball to second base to catch a runner stealing.
Manny and Micky turn a double play.
The scoreboard shows the Coyotes winning 12 to Zero in the 6th inning.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
JAMES
I really think Kyle has something special.
Shelly looks at James and smiles.
JAMES
Takes after his mother.
SHELLY
They’re all so good. I’m shocked, actually. Who knew?
Kyle stands on the pitcher’s mound. Charles calls for time out. He walks a few steps towards Kyle and stops. Using his catcher’s mitt, he signals to his heart then his mind then his eyes and holds up his arms.
CHARLES
Two outs!
Cady and Coach McGraw aren’t sure what that meant, but okay.
Kyle winds up and delivers.
The batter swings and BLASTS the ball into center field.
Tommy puts his head down and sprints for the fence. He looks up for the ball, jumps and grabs the top of the fence at the same time. He stretches with everything he’s got and catches the ball.
The Coyotes cheer and run towards the mound, rally around Kyle then towards the dugout, cheering.
MR. MCGRAW
Line em’ up!
CADY
You going to throw balls at us again?
The Coyotes, ignorant to the tradition, wait for McGraw’s answer. Mr. McGraw points to the other team. Their opponents await their sportsmanship.
BUDDY
Oh shoot!
Buddy’s the first to walk up to them and shake hands while the rest of the team follows.
IN THE GRASS - LATER
The Coyotes sit Indian style. Coach McGraw stands in front. Shelly, James and the parents wait behind.
MR. MCGRAW
You boys really showed them something. Hell, you showed me something. You got it here, here, here and here.
KYLE
Who we playing next, Coach?
A dreadful look on Shelly’s face.
MR. MCGRAW
Not sure, Kyle. Does it matter? There’s factor five I haven’t taught you guys yet.
SHELLY
Wait. Next?
Kyle closes his eyes with certain unwanted expectation.
SHELLY
Can we have a word, Mister McGraw?
Shelly and the coach step aside, but not far enough away, so everyone can hear.
SHELLY
You said one game.
MR. MCGRAW
True. I did say one game. But...
SHELLY
But nothing! I have to get that bus back.
MR. MCGRAW
You know, more than seven thousand teams around the world sign up for this thing. Sixty five hundred are eliminated on the District weekend alone. What are the odds? It’s just a few more hours.
Shelly cricks her jaw to the side, not happy.
SHELLY
And if they win again?
MR. MCGRAW
Well...
(beat)
...let me buy you all a hotdog. 
NEAR THE CONCESSIONS - LATER
Shelly sits on a picnic table munching on a hotdog. James approaches her, holds one as well.
JAMES
May I?
Shelly nods.
JAMES
To say, Father has O.C.D. about the game is an understatement.
SHELLY
Ha!
She takes her last bite, wads up her wrapper.
SHELLY
So what happened to you?
JAMES
Mother had different ideas. Saved every penny to send me to college. Wasn’t really my thing.
SHELLY
I see.
JAMES
So where’s your kids’ father?
Caught off guard, Shelly toys with her wedding band.
SHELLY
He died in Iraq.
JAMES
Oh Jeez! I’m sorry.
Shelly gets a bit sorrowful.
SHELLY
Kyle was five. Cady was just a baby.
She tries not to show it.
SHELLY
Elizabeth was a good move. It’s quiet. Keeps em’ out of trouble.
He notices her turmoil, tries to change the subject.
JAMES
Where are you from originally?
SHELLY
The city. North side.
JAMES
Cubs fans?
SHELLY
True and blue!
James laughs. Mr. McGraw approaches.
MR. MCGRAW
Looks like we’re playing Huntley.
SHELLY
Thanks for the hotdog, Coach.
Shelly parts way, tosses the wrapper in a trash can, looks over her shoulder at James, speculatively, reaches for her chest like she has heartburn.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY
The kids sword fight with the dowel rods, running wild on the bus. McGraw pops his head in the door.
MR. MCGRAW
Coyotes, you’re up.
The boys drop everything, gather their gear.
EXT. ILLINOIS DISTRICT TOURNAMENT / TRI-CITIES - DAY
The scoreboard shows the Coyotes losing 5 to 3 in the sixth inning.
Buddy pitches from the mound. The batter swings and misses.
The Coyotes run into the dugout.
MR. MCGRAW
Last bats boys.
LATER
The umpire points to first base.
UMPIRE
Ball! Take your base.
Manny walks to first.
Micky strikes out, walks back to the dugout mad.
KYLE
It’s like we lost it.
Kyle reaches in the bag and grabs one of the dowel rods, angry. He walks behind the dugout and off to the side. He searches for rocks, picks one up, swings and WHIFFS, he misses again and again.
CADY
You’re up next, Kyle.
He swings again and again and WHIFF, WHIFF, WHIFF.
Cady thinks for a spell, grabs two balls from the bag.
Tommy is up to bat. He swings, hits a dribbler and reaches first base, safely.
The pitcher’s ready. A ball flies onto the field from behind the bleachers over the Coyote’s dugout.
UMPIRE
Time!
One of the fielders shags it and throws it in.
Kyle continues to swing at the rocks and CRACK.
UMPIRE
Time!
Another ball drops onto the infield. A fielder shags it.
Kyle swings the dowel rod. CRACK, CRACK, CRACK.
UMPIRE
Batter up!
Two KIDS confront Cady behind the bleachers.
TALLER KID
Don’t throw balls on the field, ya ninny!
SHORTER KID
Yeah, ya ninny!
The taller Kid pushes Cady into a puddle. She screams.
CADY
Ma!
Kyle picks up a bat. Gives it one good swing. Steps in the batters box.
The pitch is delivered.
UMPIRE
Ball.
Shelly holds Cady’s hand. They walk away from the field.
Kyle swings and CRACK, the ball flies high, the crowd CHEERS and MOANS. It’s a home run.
The Coyotes cheer, leaving the dugout to meet Kyle at home plate.
Kyle rounds third base. He two fists his heart then his mind then his eyes and raises his hands just in time to high five his teammates.
Coach McGraw shakes his head, surprised.
MR. MCGRAW
Way to go slugger! Let’s line em’ up.
The two teams line up and shake hands.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY
Cady sits and cries in a seat. Shelly’s in the aisle.
SHELLY
What am I going to do with you?
James charges in the bus.
JAMES
He won the game! Kyle won the game!
SHELLY
He did?
CADY
That means we’re in the semi finals.
SHELLY
Oh, great.
JAMES
How did you get all wet, Cady? She needs some clean clothes.
SHELLY
How are we supposed to do that? It’s not like we planned on camping overnight!
EXT. CAMELOT CAMPGROUND/ROCK ISLAND - DAY
The school bus passes a sign that reads “Camelot Campground”. Cady’s pants hang from the antenna.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - CONTINUOUS
Shelly doesn’t look happy while she steers the bus. James is directly behind her. Cady sits in a seat by herself with her knees tucked up in an extra large Coyote T-shirt.
SHELLY
I can’t believe I let you talk me into this!
JAMES
Come on, Shelly. This could be a lot of fun. They play so well.
SHELLY
Shut it, James. It’s only one game.
JAMES
You could have gone home with the other parents.
SHELLY
Mister Gibbons would have a fit.
MR. MCGRAW
Some beautiful country around here. Ain’t it, Shelly?
She purposely drives into a pothole, bouncing everybody around the bus.
SHELLY
Yeah. Just beautiful.
EXT. CAMELOT CAMPGROUND/ROCK ISLAND - CAMPSITE - NIGHT
The McGraws make a few final adjustments to a 2 room tent before the sun sets completely.
JAMES
Rent a tent. What a fantastic idea.
SHELLY
How we all supposed to fit in there?
MR. MCGRAW
The kids can sleep in the bus.
SHELLY
And where are you two going to sleep?
JAMES
Seriously?
Shelly slams Cady’s folded pants down on a picnic bench and walks towards the Camp’s Center, shakes her head, frustrated.
MR. MCGRAW
It’s got two rooms in here.
LATER
Most of the kids are on the bus. Kyle, Cady, Buddy and Charles walk towards the campsite from the Center.
CHARLES
Then my mom and dad started fighting all the time, so I don’t know, I just quit the team.
Charles notices his dad who sits by himself in front of the fire.
CHARLES
I’ll catch up with you guys later.
NEIGHBOR’S CAMPSITE
Shelly speaks with BARBRA (30’s), typical baseball mom.
BARBRA
Oh, we’ve been coming up here for years. Here ya go, honey.
Barbra hands Shelly a stack of blankets and towels.
BARBRA
We always keep extras. Sometimes gets cold. First Steven. They made it to the quarter finals in Williamsport! And now Molly. I don’t think she’ll go very far. They already lost one game.
SHELLY
Wait. You mean they have to lose more than once?
BARBRA
Well yes, Dear. It’s double elimination.
Shelly’s face grows with masked anger.
SHELLY
Well, thank you for the towels and blankets, Barbra. I saw a laundry room. I’ll be sure to...
BARBRA
Oh, don’t bother. Just leave them on the bench if I don’t see you.
SHELLY
Thank you so much.
Shelly walks back towards her campsite.
CAMPSITE
Charles sits next to his dad on a log in front of the fire.
CHARLES
I’d rather live with you, Dad. But, I don’t wanna leave Pennsylvania. Can’t you find a job there?
Shelly walks up behind the tent, overhears their chat.
JAMES
I understand, Charles. Try to see things form my point of view though. Everything there reminds me of everything I’ve lost. I’m still losing. I loved our home and all we had. Ahhh! I shouldn’t be laying this stuff on you.
James whips a stick into the fire.
JAMES
You just focus on baseball, Son. You guys played great today. And that kid you caught stealing. Wow!
Charles chuckles then he gets a shiver.
CHARLES
I knew Gramps was up to something when he told me to grab my gear.
JAMES
The guy just won’t quit.
Shelly smiles, sympathetically. She presents herself.
SHELLY
You boys talking shop?
CHARLES
Blankets!
SHELLY
Would you mind?
She holds them out to Charles.
CHARLES
Sure, Ms. Blankenheimer.
James gets a kick out of her last name.
Charles runs off.
JAMES
Blankenheimer?
SHELLY
Shelly Blankenheimer. Has a nice ring to it. Don’t you think?
JAMES
More like a melody.
Shelly laughs out loud. She gently slaps James on the arm as she sits.
SHELLY
It does run on a bit.
An awkward quiet moment.

SHELLY
What’s this I hear about double elimination?
JAMES
Are you serious?
SHELLY
You knew!
JAMES
I didn’t! I swear!
SHELLY
I guess we’ll be here all day tomorrow too.
JAMES
Aren’t you happy for the kids, though?
SHELLY
Sure! It’s just, I’m not exactly cut out for this outdoorsy crap. I mean, baseball yeah. We’d take a bus down Clark Street to Wrigley.
Shelly looks at him.
SHELLY
Not this parents yelling, coaches dreaming and screaming more so than the kids. Gosh!
James looks peculiarly at her.
SHELLY
Sorry. I didn’t mean that.
Coach McGraw sleeps in the tent.
JAMES
No, no. He’s got it worse than all of them. Not too many people know this but, his uncle invented Little League.
SHELLY
You lie!
JAMES
I swear! Scouts honor.
SHELLY
You were a boy scout. Weren’t you?
JAMES
I was, (beat) Jimmy Chipara.
SHELLY
He invented Little League?
JAMES
Ha! No! My Indian name.
They both laugh.
JAMES
It means rainbow.
Shelly laughs out loud.
JAMES
I know. I know. I was teased forever it seemed like. It’s the reason why I insist on James.
SHELLY
I like James. It suits you.
They smile fondly at each other.
INT. TENT - NIGHT
Shelly and James crawl into the tent.
JAMES
Go ahead and take the back room. I threw a blanket in there for you.
SHELLY
Thanks, Ja...
MR. MCGRAW
(sleep talking)
Run, Tommy, ya little dipshit!
Shelly does a raspberry laugh. James cracks up. Coach rolls over. They keep crawling.
LATER
James lays on his back with his arms folded behind his head, looks at the canvas that divides him and Shelly. He can see her silhouette.
Shelly sits up and removes her hoody, provides a kind of sexy image for him. James stares for a spell, rests his head and closes his eyes.
INT. TENT - MORNING
Shelly sleeps peacefully. She opens her eyes. A baby Garter Snake greets her just a few inches from her face. She SCREAMS, gets up immediately and scrambles for the exit.
EXT. CAMPSITE - CONTINUOUS
Shelly storms out of the tent. She suddenly acts casual when she sees everyone stopped in their tracks ready to help her. Some of the kids eat off paper plates, Coach and James with  steamy coffee cups.
MR. MCGRAW
You okay?
SHELLY
I’m fine. James, there’s a snake in the tent.
She walks past everyone.
SHELLY
Mmmm. Coffee.
The group looks at her strangely.
EXT. ILLINOIS DISTRICT TOURNAMENT / TRI-CITIES - DAY
The Coyote’s school bus rolls into the parking lot.
LATER
The stands are crowded. Shelly and James are seated close together, filled with anticipation.
SMACK. Charles catches the pitch.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Charles trots towards Kyle, excited. They high five each other. Shelly and James applaud. The two teams shake hands.
EXT. ILLINOIS DISTRICT TOURNAMENT / TRI-CITIES - NIGHT
The lights are on. The score board shows the Coyotes winning 10 to 1 in the last inning.
The opponent’s bleachers have many fans.
Shelly and James are the Coyotes’ only fans. Shelly takes a bite from a hotdog and grosses out from it.
Coach McGraw and Cady stand just outside the dugout.
MR. MCGRAW
One more Kyle. Come on, babe.
He claps his hands. Cady’s filled with excitement.
Kyle reaches back and throws the ball.
UMPIRE
Strike!
All the Coyotes charge the mound.
Coach is on his way to the mound when he turns and gives Shelly and James two thumbs up. The two of them applaud.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - NIGHT
The kids all sing “We are the champions. We are the champions”...
MR. MCGRAW
Of Illinois. Hahahaha.
SHELLY
(driving)
I just want a bath.
James appears to be snoozing. Opens one eye overhearing her wish. He smiles.
EXT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - DAY
Shelly tends to her roses in her backyard with pouting lips.
SHELLY
My poor babies. Nobody here to take care of you.
She pours a little water on them.
SHELLY
Two whole days without your-
JAMES
Have you ever heard of the Smothers Brothers?
SHELLY
Dear God!
She reaches for her heart.
SHELLY
You scared me! No. Sorry.
JAMES
They talk to the trees.
Shelly’s a little embarrassed.
JAMES
But they never listen. Ha.
SHELLY
Oh yes they do.
JAMES
Really?
SHELLY
What are you doing here?
JAMES
I’ve been nominated.
SHELLY
For what?
JAMES
I’m the hero’s new spokesman.
She’s confused.
SHELLY
Wait. Are you kidding me? No way!
JAMES
The team had a meeting. And some of the parents were there too.
Shelly appears flustered.
JAMES
They all want you to go. None of them can make it. They have their jobs and well. Come on! I want you to go.
She’s thrown, almost drops the jug of water. Suddenly, she’s conscientious of her dirty appearance, nudges her hair from her eyes.
SHELLY
I’ve had it with bats and balls and buses and...
She turns away, sets the jug on a table.
SHELLY
...and hotdogs!
Awkward silence.
JAMES
Well, just think about it.
INT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - NIGHT
The Blankenheimers sit at the dinner table. Shelly leans back in her chair adamantly with her arms folded.
Kyle taps on a laptop.
KYLE
The Japanese are in it like every year. Look!
CADY
They’re good, Mom!
KYLE
You can find everything about it online.
She gets up uninterested, sort of paces.
KYLE (O.C.)
Coach said we’ll get real uniforms. Great Lakes! Well, if we win.
SHELLY
(to herself)
Coach.
The kids look disappointed at each other.
SHELLY
It’s not that I don’t want you to play. I just didn’t plan on a journey across the country. It costs money. I already paid for most of the gas. Everybody has to eat.
KYLE
Charles said Mister McGraw would probably pay for it.
SHELLY
Kyle. The guy still lives in the last century. I don’t think he can afford it. He’s retired.
Kyle looks down disappointed.
KYLE
Yeah. It’ll be impossible.
Kyle shuts the laptop, defeated.
Shelly looks away, her eyes in a glaze.
EXT. FARM - DAY
Shelly drives up to Mr. McGraw’s farm.
James works on the engine of his dad’s truck.
JAMES
Try it now.
McGraw sits in the truck and TURNS it over. It won’t start.
Shelly walks over cautiously.
SHELLY
Problems?
James wipes his hands.
JAMES
I think she’s seen her better days.
SHELLY
I left the kids. I only-
The engine TURNS again.
JAMES
Father!
SHELLY
The next game or tournament. Whatever it is. I don’t see how. It’s just, it costs money. These people don’t have a lot of it.
MR. MCGRAW
I’ve got money!
McGraw pokes his head over the truck.
MR. MCGRAW
Hell. How much could it cost?
JAMES
I’m between jobs right now.
SHELLY
We all appreciate what you’re trying to do, Mister McGraw.
McGraw walks around the truck near them.
MR. MCGRAW
I can see the dream in these kids’ eyes.
Shelly bites her thumb.
MR. MCGRAW
I can’t think of anything I’d rather do with my money. If it wasn’t for a young man named Carl Stotz who had a dream, we wouldn’t even have Little League.
JAMES
That’s ah, the uncle thing.
MR. MCGRAW
He was-
JAMES
Father. (beat) Shelly, let’s see what it costs.
SHELLY
But Mister Gibbons won’t-
JAMES
Let’s just see.
Shelly looks at James earnestly.
JAMES
Come on. Let me walk ya to the car.
James wraps his arm around her. Shelly grins.
I/E. SCHOOL BUS - DAY
The kids all have their faces smashed up against the windows on one side of the bus.
A fireworks booth is stationed in the parking lot of a strip mall. Billboards that read, “FIREWORKS”.
Shelly sees the kids in the rearview mirror, drooling.
MR. MCGRAW
(sings)
How many bottles of beer on the wall?
They all sing, but more depressing, “fifty bottles of beer on the wall”.
Shelly makes a QUICK TURN. The kids’ weight shift. Some tumble.
MR. MCGRAW
What’s wrong?
SHELLY
I think a flat or something.
The GPS is mounted to the face of the dashboard.
GPS
(British female)
Turn around as soon as possible.
EXT. SCHOOL BUS - MOMENTS LATER
The bus comes to a stop. Everyone piles out. James and Shelly do a quick walk around the bus.
JAMES
Everything looks okay.
SHELLY
Hmmm. Oh look, firecrackers!
The kids are totally excited about it.
BUDDY
Dude your mom’s so cool.
JOEY
Yeah and a total babe.
KYLE
Shut up, Joey!
JOEY
Seriously! Look at her.
KYLE
Shut up!
Kyle grabs Joey from behind.
SHELLY
Hey! You want some firecrackers or not?
They all gather around the booth CALLING out what they see and want.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - NIGHT
The kids RAMBLE on about their assortment of fireworks. James assists Shelly in finding their way, poking at the GPS.
JAMES
Does it have the address to the hotel, Father?
Coach holds up a sheet of paper.
MR. MCGRAW
Fifty three, forty five, north Winthrop. They had the best rates.
JAMES
Okay, it says fifteen miles.
GPS
Stay on course.
JAMES
Hear that, Shelly?
SHELLY
(British accent)
Yes, James. Directly on course.
EXT. GOOD DOG HOTEL - NIGHT
The Illinois school bus pulls into the hotel lot. A big sign with a huge dog’s head is all lit up.
Coach McGraw and James walk towards the entrance. Shelly tends to the kids in the bus.
MR. MCGRAW
Nice! They let you bring your dogs here. Ha. It must be why it’s so cheap.
We hear dogs BARK.
INT. GOOD DOG HOTEL - LATER
Four stars. The lobby is quite nice. A very nice reception area where the teenaged RECEPTIONIST awaits them.
More BARKING.
RECEPTIONIST
Hello! Welcome to Good Dog.
MR. MCGRAW
I have a reservation for three rooms.
She taps on her keyboard.
RECEPTIONIST
McGraw?
MR. MCGRAW
Yes.
RECEPTIONIST
So you have three, then?
Coach appears confused.
MR. MCGRAW
Well, we have ten little ones. They’re free. Right?
Now the receptionist appears confused.
RECEPTIONIST
A room is a room. Alright, well bring them in. Going to need some extra things.
She makes her way to the back. Coach and James head for the door.
LATER
Shelly holds the door open for the kids. James and Coach manage some luggage through the doorway.
SHELLY
Oh! This is so nice, Coach.
Shelly makes her way to the front near the desk. The receptionist returns.
SHELLY
Hello. Very nice place here.
RECEPTIONIST
Thank you.
Both girls wait awkwardly.
SHELLY
Well.
RECEPTIONIST
Well, where are the dogs?
JAMES
Ha! No, we’re the Coyotes.
RECEPTIONIST
No, I mean the dogs. Where are the dogs?
The kids, James and the Coach appear very confused.
SHELLY
Coach, please don’t tell me you booked us at a doggy hotel.
MR. MCGRAW
I, this is, we came, did I do that?
The kids and James laugh hysterically. Coach is embarrassed and Shelly’s steamed. The receptionist can’t hold back her laughter. Even Shelly laughs, eventually.
SHELLY
Can you help us?
RECEPTIONIST
I’m guessing you’re here for the Little League tournament?
Shelly nods.
RECEPTIONIST
Oh boy! You do realize how many kids are in town for this?
The receptionist taps on her keyboard.
EXT. GATEWAY MOTEL - NIGHT
The bus drives into a rundown motel where many BLACK PEOPLE are about the parking lot. Some sit in chairs outside their rooms. Loud RAP MUSIC blasts from a car. A fair share of them are kids running around.
Shelly and James exit the bus, uncomfortably. The patrons stare them down.
INT. GATEWAY MOTEL OFFICE - LATER
A JOLLY MAN LAUGHS uncontrollably behind the desk in the office.
JOLLY MAN
A doggy hotel?
Two other MEN sit in the lobby and laugh under their breath hiding behind magazines. Not funny to Shelly and James.
SHELLY
Do you have three rooms?
The man wants to help them, trying to catch his breath.
JOLLY MAN
Well, let’s see. Any pets? Hahahaha.
The two men SQUEAL. Shelly waits patiently.
SHELLY
Ten kids. Three adults.
JOLLY MAN
How the hell... ah damn, never mind. Three rooms. Yes ma’am. Shoot! We only have two left. You here for the baseball?
Shelly grips her forehead.
SHELLY
Yes, yes! The baseball.
JOLLY MAN
We have another team here too. You can have em’ if you want em’.
SHELLY
It’ll have to do.
Shelly gives James a sarcastic smile. James puts his credit card on the counter.
EXT. GATEWAY MOTEL - LATER
Shelly and James walk back towards the bus. Most everyone stares. James looks scared. Shelly’s annoyed. She stops.
JAMES
No! Come on. Keep walking.
SHELLY
(to the patrons)
You like what you see?
She swings her booty a few times, smiles and continues on. Many of the patrons smile with approval.
LATER
Coach mingles, speaks to a BASEBALL DAD in the parking lot.
MR. MCGRAW
Old Uncle Tuck was everyone’s best buddy when we were kids.
BASEBALL DAD
For real? The guy invented Little League?
MR. MCGRAW
That’s right. We use to look up at the stars at night and dream about this kind of stuff.
POPPING firecrackers. Shelly and James talk to a SPARKLY WOMAN and her MAN. A party is stirring.
SHELLY
James, could you check on them?
SPARKLY WOMAN
They’re gonna need all their fingers tomorrow. Ha. Some wine or a beer, Shelly?
LATER
James sits in a lawn chair, chatting. Coach makes the kids laugh because he dances for them. Charles looks over yonder.
CHARLES
Dude, your mom is tearing it up!
Kyle looks over and then gets embarrassed.
Shelly dances a bit provocatively with a group of adults, holding her glass of wine.
JOEY
Go Shelly, go Shelly.
KYLE
Shut up, Joey!
Shelly dances up to James with her hand out.
JAMES
No. No I can’t.
She drags him by the arm. Somebody hands him a beer.
JAMES
Thanks. It’s just what we need now. More drunken parents.
Shelly laughs and kicks her dance moves up a notch.
LATER
The kids are settled down in the bus. James and Shelly walk drunkenly towards their rooms. Sparkly Woman and her man wear their pajamas and sit outside the room next door.
SPARKLY WOMAN
If you two love birds want to join us for a night cap just come a knocking.
Sparkly Woman winks at them. Shelly and James look at each other weirdly and crack up.
JAMES
Well, this is yours, it looked ah, little cleaner.
They stop. Shelly shrugs like it don’t matter.
JAMES
See. You’re having fun.
SHELLY
You’re right. I am.
JAMES
Me too.
SHELLY
Thanks for talking me into it.
(beat)
Doggy Hotel. Ha!
JAMES
That’s Father.
SHELLY
Well, good night, James.
JAMES
Don’t let the bed bugs... maybe I shouldn’t have said that.
Shelly makes a frightening face then smiles. She enters her room, shuts the door.
James appears awkward, takes a breath.
JAMES
Good night, Shelly.
EXT. GATEWAY MOTEL - MORNING
James hurries from across the street with two to-go cups. He approaches Shelly’s room. Stops, sets the cups on a car, checks his hair in the side mirror, grabs the cups, walks up to her door and manages to knock. The door opens a little.
JAMES
Well, good...
He’s excited until Cady appears.
JAMES
...morning, Cady.
SHELLY (O.C.)
Who is it , Cady?
CADY
It’s Mister James. He’s got two coffees. What am I, chopped liver?
James can’t even respond to that. Cady grabs a rubber ball and her mitt. She exits the motel room.
SHELLY
Awe James! Thank you so much.
LATER
Cady sits on the first step of the bus parked outside the motel. She whips the ball into her mitt, drearily.
MR. MCGRAW (O.C.)
If you do that exactly one million times, you’ll have the best glove in all of baseball.
Cady looks up at Mr. McGraw with disbelief.
CADY
My glove is my whole problem.
LATER
Coach McGraw and Cady stand 20 feet from the brick wall on the side of the motel. A diamond, made from masking tape, is stuck to the wall.
MR. MCGRAW
Now you bounce it in there.
Coach throws the ball at the diamond and goes after it.
MR. MCGRAW
Chase it down. Make the grab...
He catches the bouncing ball.
MR. MCGRAW
...and throw it to first. You know, in your imagination.
Coach throws the ball against the wall to finish his instructions.
CADY
Let me try.
Coach hands Cady the ball. She throws it, catches it, and throws it again.
MR. MCGRAW
That a girl! We use to call it bounce or fly.
CADY
Cool!
MR. MCGRAW
Keep it up, girly. You’ll be an All Star.
Cady smiles, the coach leaves her be.
LATER
The school bus drives away and stops abruptly just before the busy street. The HORN blows. Cady runs from behind the motel to the bus.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - DAY - MOMENTS LATER
Shelly gives Coach a dirty look in her rearview mirror.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
A marquee that reads, “Rueben F. Glick Little League Center. Central Region Headquarters. Indianapolis”.
Kyle swings and hits a home run.
Shelly eats a hotdog.
Cady picks up a bat between batters.
They shake hands with the other team, excited they won.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
INT. LITTLE LEAGUE CENTER / WASHROOM - DAY
Shelly lines a toilet seat with pieces of toilet paper, closes the door to the stall.
Sparkly Woman from the motel and another BLACK WOMAN enter the washroom. They use the mirrors and sink.
SPARKLY WOMAN
The one boy told me. I think it was her son. Kyle! Even if they win, his mamma ain’t gonna let em’ go to no Williamsport.
Shelly listens curiously.
BLACK WOMAN
Can’t say I blame her. All this traveling, costs so much damn money. Them white boys can hit!
SPARKLY WOMAN
I’m telling you. It’s too bad that white b***h so cheap. We gonna beat their a*s anyway.
BLACK WOMAN
Girl, you’re so bad!
They crack up.
Shelly’s expression turns to attitude.
INT. LITTLE LEAGUE CENTER - DAY
Shelly finds James and rudely makes her way through the spectators.
SHELLY
Sorry. Excuse me.
She sits next to James who suspects there’s a problem.
JAMES
Everything okay?
SHELLY
Everything is fine! Here’s your hotdog.
She flips it at him. Curious James grabs it.
SHELLY
Come on, Buddy. Tear the cover off it!
Many of the other fans turn and look.
SHELLY
I’ve seen it happen.
James shakes his head, has a very odd look on his face.
A batter for the other team swings and pops it straight up.
Charles throws his mask, looks up and spins around a couple times. He falls on his butt and the ball lands in his lap.
The Coyotes cheer, run in and line up to shake hands with the other team.
INT. MCDONALD’S RESTAURANT - DAY - LATER
Shelly sips from a straw, bummed, looks out the window.
The team takes up three booths, talking victory. Coach and James are at a separate table. They read programs.
BUDDY
We can win this thing, dudes!
CHARLES
But even if we do, your mom ain’t gonna want to go to Pennsylvania.
Shelly turns her head and looks at the kids for a spell.
SHELLY
What are you talking about?
Coach and James tune in.
SHELLY
Only if you can’t eat all them french fries!
KYLE
Wait. What?
SHELLY
You heard me. First you gotta beat the hell out of those...
She wants to swear.
SHELLY
...kids from the motel.
JAMES
The Wildcats.
Shelly could care less what they’re called. The kids nibble at the french fries with fright.
JAMES
It says it right here.
EXT. RIVER BANK - DAY
It’s almost sunset. WHIFF, CRACK and SIZZLE as the boys practice their eye to hand coordination with the dowel rods.
KYLE
What’s factor five, Coach?
MR. MCGRAW
Not sure you kids are old enough to understand it. It’s not-
All the kids pause and irk the coach to tell.
MR. MCGRAW
Okay, okay. I’ll tell you what factor five is, but it’s not something you can just work on or practice like these sticks.
The boys all gather around, curious.
MR. MCGRAW
It’s just a word, really.
KYLE
A word?
MR. MCGRAW
A word that we use, so we all think together as a team. Now boys, I know where your heads are at. I been there. Your mind can travel a million miles away with all the dreams, spectacular plays, winning the game, being the hero. Well, it’s a distraction I’m telling ya.
KYLE
So what’s the word.
MR. MCGRAW
Focus.
KYLE
Focus?
BUDDY
Focus!
JOEY
Focus.
On down the line as each kid says it, building with inspiration. Coach is astounded. All the kids laugh.
MR. MCGRAW
Hahahaha! That’s exactly how it’s supposed to work.
EXT. GATEWAY MOTEL - NIGHT
James and Shelly walk towards the motel with bags of KFC from across the street.
Sparkly Woman happens to step out of her room.
SPARKLY WOMAN
Chicken?
James opens the door to their room and enters. Shelly turns to the woman.
SHELLY
No b***h. We’re not.
Shelly uses the back of her arm to slam the door. The woman is insulted.
EXT. LITTLE LEAGUE CENTER - DAY
James and Shelly sit in the stands. She holds up a sign that reads, “Coyotes are cute not ugly”.
James is on his cell phone.
JAMES
It’s all settled then. A check? What? That leaves me with...
James looks at Shelly.
JAMES
(discreet)
...nothing!
James is livid over the bad news.
JAMES
I’ll look at everything when I get back to P.A.
James pockets his phone.
SHELLY
Woo who, Coyotes!
Shelly catches a glimpse of Sparkly Woman. Shelly gives her a mean stare then uses the sign to block her view.
Kyle pitches the ball home. The batter hits a single.
Another batter hits a single. Kyle’s ticked.
The next batter hits a home run.
Sparkly Woman gives Shelly a stuck up look.
Coach McGraw calls for time out. He heads for the mound.
MR. MCGRAW
Your arm sore, Kyle?
KYLE
A little.
MR. MCGRAW
Buddy pitched the last game. Who else can throw the ball?
KYLE
Joey’s not too bad.
MR. MCGRAW
Joey it is then. Hey, Joey!
Joey points at himself, surprised.
LATER
Joey digs a hole with his gym shoe in front of the mound. Walks around, levels the dirt everywhere else. Takes his mitt off rubs the ball far too long, straightens his hat. He walks to the front of the mound, points to Charles.
JOEY
Focus!
CHARLES
Focus!
BUDDY
Focus!
KYLE
(drab)
Focus.
Joey winds up and fires the ball home. The batter swings and misses.
Shelly, and only Shelly, jumps for joy.
SHELLY
Yeah, Joey!
She sticks her tongue out at -
Sparkly Woman.
UMPIRE
Strike two!
MR. MCGRAW
That a boy, Joey! Focus.
JOEY
Focus, focus, hokus pokus.
Joey winds up and strikes the batter out.
SHELLY
Woo who!
Even some other spectators cheer.
LATER
The score board shows the Coyotes beating the Wildcats 5 to 4 in the 6th inning.
Joey pitches the ball home. The little batter swings and misses.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Shelly and James jump for joy and hug.
INT. BAR - NIGHT
Joey’s mom, Alice, tends the bar. She sets a beer in front of a sleazily dressed, drunken LEWD WOMAN. Shelly’s colleague and friend, Melisa is there with another PRETTY FRIEND. Soft country MUSIC plays.
The place is a little busy. The girls hit it off with two other MEN tolerating lewd woman.
LEWD WOMAN
Hell, it’s been so long, I’m thinking of starting my own convent. Hahahaha!
They laugh convincingly.
LEWD WOMAN
You sisters interested? Hahahaha!
MELISA
Ha. I’m not having a problem.
Melisa’s friend snickers. The one man points to the TV.
MAN
It’s Shelly!
Alice and the others turn their attention. It’s a clip of Shelly and James hugging in the stands. She holds her silly Coyote sign.
MELISA
Oooooh!
Melisa smiles proudly at the TV.
MELISA
You go, girl.
ANNOUNCER (O.S.)
...heading for Williamsport as the Coyotes from Elizabeth Illinois beat the Wildcats from Detroit earlier today.
ALICE
The Coyotes, everyone! The Coyotes are on TV.
Alice grabs the attention of the patrons.
EXT. ELIZABETH / MAIN STREET - DAY
The school bus turns the corner onto the main Street. Many of the towns people stand on the side of the road with welcoming signs of congratulations.
The Coyotes hang out the windows. They HOOT and HOWL.
ALICE
Yeah, Coyotes! Woo who!
EXT. JOHN DEERE CORPORATION - DAY
A Limo drops James off for his big interview.
INT. JOHN DEERE CORPORATION - WAITING AREA - DAY
James waits outside the CEO’s office. A pretty SECRETARY shoots him a glance periodically.
SECRETARY
Would you like a water or something?
JAMES
Water would be great.
She gets up and reaches in a small fridge.
She hands James the bottle of water.
SECRETARY
Try to relax. I like what I see.
A refreshing look on James’ face.
A door opens. A man about James’ age steps out. Very nicely dressed, hair gelled to the side. Looks important. JONATHAN HEART.
HEART
Mister McGraw. Nice to meet you.
JAMES
Please, call me James.
HEART
I’m Jonathan Heart.
JAMES
Yes, it mentioned you in the letter. Nice to meet you.
HEART
I’ve heard some very impressive things about you.
JAMES
Not from my ex-wife I hope?
Jonathan laughs.
As does his secretary.
HEART
No, we didn’t get her reference letter back.
HEART
Come in.
CEO’S OFFICE
James looks around Jonathan’s office at the many books and novelty items about the shelves, notices a BASEBALL TROPHY.
HEART
Have a seat.
James has a seat in front of Heart’s large modernized desk.
HEART
We’re looking for a regional guy. Sales is his best asset. Knows the country, connected. You seem to have most of these attributes. How soon would you be able to start. Right away, I hope.
JAMES
I was hoping in three weeks if I did get the job.
HEART
Three weeks? You don’t owe those people anything, James. They head hunted you. They don’t play a fair game.
JAMES
I know.
HEART
You’re good at what you do and that’s what matters to us.
JAMES
It’s not that. My son is supposedly, well hopefully playing in the Little League World Series. My dad coaches and ah...
Jonathan gives nothing away.
JAMES
...I wanted to be there. Sort of.
Jonathan gets up and looks out to the fabulous view behind his desk.
HEART
So you would give up a six figure job to go see your kid play baseball?
JAMES
The chances are, they’re not going anyway. It’s big money and these are a bunch of kids from Elizabeth. They’ve played remarkably well. A Cinderella story, really.
HEART
I’m supposed to hold your job to see how it all pans out?
JAMES
No. Of course not. I just thought. Well, it doesn’t matter.
HEART
What? Of course it matters. Get the hell out!
The secretary looks concerned.
James shoulders shoot backwards.
JAMES
Excuse me?
HEART
You heard me! Go to Williamsport! That’s your home town, ain’t it?
JAMES
Maybe this was a mistake. Maybe Uncle Tuck was right.
HEART
Who? What?
James leaves in a fury.
The secretary walks in afterwards with her arms folded. Pissed.
Jonathan smiles at her.
HEART
What?
INT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - DAY
Shelly sits at the dinner table working on her checkbook. Kyle and Cady play video games in the living room.
She finishes up her calculations then looks over at her kids, shakes her head with a depressed kind of expression.
A car HORN blows.
SHELLY
I’ll be back in a couple of hours.
She gathers stuff into her purse. Kyle peeks out the window.
KYLE
You’re going out with James? Like a date?
SHELLY
It’s not a date, Kyle.
CADY
Just make sure he has you home at a decent hour.
Shelly laughs.
SHELLY
You just be good for your brother.
Shelly exits the front door.
KYLE
I thought she’d never go on a date.
Cady smiles with hope. Kyle opens the laptop.
EXT. GALENA TERRITORY - DAY
SERIES OF SHOTS:
James and Shelly cruise the rolling highway through the Galena Territory in his sports car with the top down.
The two of them walk the historic main street in Galena.
They enjoy the view on a bridge over the Mississippi River as the sun sets.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
INT. GALENA RESTAURANT - NIGHT
Shelly sips a glass of wine. James is finished with his plate. The WAITRESS removes some dishes from their table.
SHELLY
I never would have imagined. Me, a baseball mom? Ha!
JAMES
And you’re the prettiest one out there.
She looks pathetic.
SHELLY
Please! I just need a few more sweat shirts, lawn chairs and umbrellas.
JAMES
You have that Coyote sign. That’s all you need.
SHELLY
Yeah.
JAMES
What?
SHELLY
Just looking at all the expenses and you and your dad have been so generous already.
JAMES
I don’t know how people do it.
SHELLY
It costs a hundred and fifty dollars just to fill up that bus.
JAMES
It’s sad really.
SHELLY
I hate to disappoint them.
JAMES
Well, even if they are, it’s been something to remember. More than most kids.
Shelly gestures to the waitress for more wine.
WAITRESS
More Pinot?
JAMES
Father says old Uncle Tuck never intended for it to be like it is.
SHELLY
Uncle Tuck?
JAMES
The guy who invented Little League.
SHELLY
You never finished telling me.
JAMES
Carl Stotz. Died in ninety six, I think. I remember Father going to his wake.
SHELLY
Uncle Tuck didn’t appreciate all the hype of Corporate America?
JAMES
Exactly! The guy fought for years to hang on to his Little League and you know, keep it simple. They finally booted his a*s out. It’s almost like Father has a secret agenda or something.
Shelly’s puzzled. Waitress brings more wine.
SHELLY
Meaning? Thank you.
JAMES
You’ve seen all these other Little League teams in their shiny uniforms.
SHELLY
Enough to last me a lifetime.
JAMES
They’re just the opposite of what he sees in these boys. Sort of old school dreams. Winning it all would be a kind of payback in Uncle Tuck’s name. All Carl Stotz accomplished wouldn’t be in vain.
SHELLY
Hmmm.
JAMES
Just a hunch.
Shelly sips her wine.
EXT. BLANKENHEIMER’S HOUSE - NIGHT
Shelly stumbles slightly, James helps her balance as they make their way to Shelly’s porch.
SHELLY
Some good wine.
JAMES
Pinot Grigio, I’ll have to remember that.
SHELLY
It’s P, I, N,...
James spins her about to face him.
JAMES
I think I’ll be able...
Shelly kisses him with passion, her hand touches his face, gracefully. They stare in each others eyes for a spell.
SHELLY
You’re such a dork.
JAMES
Hahahaha! Am I?
SHELLY
Yes!
JAMES
What about you?
SHELLY
I’m not a dork!
JAMES
I have pictures of you holding that ridiculous sign. On National TV even.
SHELLY
Hahahaha! They are so cute.
There’s some awkward silence.
JAMES
Well, good night, Shelly.
SHELLY
(British accent)
Turning around as soon as possible. Stay on course. Open the door in five yards.
She follows her own silly instructions, smiles at James and closes the front door.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
The team practices.
Coach walks the edge of his tall farm field.
Shelly hangs clothes on a line in her back yard.
Shelly drives her car. The tank is on empty.
Melisa has a good time at the bar with friends.
James searches the help wanted ads while he sits on his dad’s tailgate.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
INT. GROCERY STORE - DAY
Shelly sets her items on the conveyer belt. The CASHIER rings her up.
CASHIER
Your total is fifty four ninety nine.
Shelly digs in her purse and pulls out her credit card. She swipes it.
CASHIER
The Coyotes. How did they come up with that name?
SHELLY
It’s a very interesting story, actually.
CASHIER
Oh, I’m sorry, your card is being denied.
Shelly’s embarrassed.
SHELLY
Here.
She grabs many items and lays them in front of the cashier.
SHELLY
Take these off.
She takes the toilet paper back. The cashier voids the items.
CASHIER
Try again.
Shelly swipes the card with high hopes.
CASHIER
I’m sorry Ma’am.
Shelly takes a deep breath.
SHELLY
You know what? Forget it.
She walks away upset and heads to the automatic doors. James walks in from the other side.
VESTIBULE
JAMES
Shelly!
She stops.
SHELLY
James.
JAMES
You okay?
SHELLY
Yes. Forgot my ah... purse.
James looks at her purse.
SHELLY
With my money in it. The one with my money.
James sees she’s in a predicament.
JAMES
Please. Let me loan you some money.
SHELLY
I don’t need your money.
JAMES
Shelly, please.
SHELLY
What a girl can’t walk in a store and decide she doesn’t want anything?
JAMES
Okay! If you say so.
Shelly walks out, James walks in. They both stop, think. Shelly walks in, James walks out and they meet between the set of doors again.

SHELLY
I’m just going to have to tell the kids, they can’t go.
JAMES
It’s too bad.
SHELLY
Like you said, more than most kids.
JAMES
We can try to raise the money.
SHELLY
We have three days. We need like ten thousand dollars, James! That’s as cheap as it gets.
James is a bit stunned.
JAMES
Well, tell them they can’t go, I guess.
SHELLY
Sure! I gotta tell em’.
JAMES
I’ll tell them, if that’s what you want, crabby.
SHELLY
I’ll do it myself.
Shelly walks in, James walks out. They both stop, think. Shelly walks out, James walks in, they meet between the set of doors again sticking their noses up at each other.
EXT. SCHOOL - DAY
Coach McGraw’s truck pulls up to the ball field where the Coyotes await him.
Coach yanks open the tailgate. There’s two big cardboard boxes.
BUDDY
Uniforms!
They’re all excited. The coach rips one box open and pulls out a jersey that has a logo that reads, “GREAT LAKES”. He flips it around, big bold numbers on the back.
The boys aren’t that excited.
MR. MCGRAW
What? They’re real jerseys!
KYLE
They’re green.
MR. MCGRAW
So what! You get real pants too.
Coach points to the other box.
KYLE
We’re brown.
CADY
Where’s the Coyote?
JOEY
Yeah! What the hell?
Coach smiles.
MR. MCGRAW
I’ll be damned. Well, there ain’t nothing in the rule book that says we can’t wear the uniforms we got.
KYLE
Cool.
BUDDY
Cool.
All the Coyotes agree. Coach shoves the jersey back in the box.
MR. MCGRAW
Let’s get busy.
CADY
Yeah, slackers. Let’s get busy.
They grab the gear from the back of the truck and head out to the field.
EXT. SCHOOL - NIGHT
It’s almost dark. The boys wrap up the gear, gather around Coach’s truck. Shelly drives up in her car, gets out, shuts the door. The boys chatter and toss the gear in the bed.
SHELLY
How they looking, Coach?
MR. MCGRAW
Like a bunch of All Stars.
SHELLY
Gosh you guys, school starts in ten days. Spent your whole summer. Don’t you all want any vacation at all?
BUDDY
Yeah, a vacation to Williamsport.
The kids laugh.
SHELLY
But think of all the fun you’re missing out on.
JOEY
Like what?
SHELLY
I don’t know like mmmmm, sleeping in or cartoons or...
MR. MCGRAW
Shelly.
SHELLY
...church.
Coach walks up to her.
MR. MCGRAW
What’s wrong?
All the kids wonder.
KYLE
What, Mom?
She flips her tone.
SHELLY
You know, we’re all so excited for you and I talked to your moms, they’re all so proud. We all are! The whole town.
MR. MCGRAW
It’s true.
Coach isn’t exactly getting it.
SHELLY
You guys have played sooo many games already.
KYLE
Thanks to you guys.
BUDDY
Yeah, thanks Ms. Blankenheimer.
Many of the kids thank her.
SHELLY
You’re welcome, Buddy. You’re all welcome. The truth is, everything costs so much and...
Shelly shoves her hands in her back pockets.
SHELLY
...we don’t have it.
MR. MCGRAW
Shelly, I got it. Come on! God, how much do we need.
Shelly’s tight lipped. Walks up to Mr. McGraw and whispers.
MR. MCGRAW
Ten thousand dollars!
The kids GRUNT.
JOEY
How we gonna come up with that?
BUDDY
Ten thousand dollars?
KYLE
We can sell stuff. I’ll sell my bike!
All the kids YELL, jabber jaw, tossing out ideas.
MR. MCGRAW
You know, it just ain’t fair. Uncle Tuck rolling over in his grave!
Coach turns to the kids.
MR. MCGRAW
Listen! Shelly’s right. The big dogs of America have made it impossible for a young group a small town kids to make it to the big show.
Melisa drives up. Alice is in the passenger seat. Another car pulls in and another and another. James drives up in his sports car. A small parade of vehicles follow him.
MR. MCGRAW
All because of corporate greed!
Melisa and Alice make their way closer.
MR. MCGRAW
Did you know they paid Uncle Tuck a hundred thousand dollars just to get rid of him?
The two girls walk up to Shelly.
SHELLY
Alice, I could have given Joey a ride.
ALICE
I know sweetie, that’s not why we’re here. This my tip jar I been collecting all summer. I want ya to have it.
Shelly’s surprised, but reluctant to take the large glass jar.
SHELLY
You don’t...
MELISA
And here’s a check, Shelly. I want to help out.
Other familiar faces and more TOWNSFOLK pitch in money and their votes of confidence, filling the jar.
JAMES
I’m all in too!
James hands her a check.
Shelly looks at him like she’s sorry.
GIBBONS
This is everything we have, Shelly.
Gibbons hands Shelly an envelope.
Shelly is beside herself. The kids are ecstatic.
SHELLY
(to James)
You did this didn’t you?
JAMES
Well -
She smiles then leans forward and kisses James on the cheek. All the Coyotes WOO.
ALICE
He’s been goin’ door to door rootin’ for the Coyotes.
MELISA
I gotta hand it to you, Shell. I love my summers off.
Shelly wraps her arm around Cady and looks down at her.
SHELLY
Me too, hon. Me too. And you’re all so kind and generous but I’m afraid this isn’t going to be enough.
Cady pouts her lips, looks up at her mom.
CADY
I have fifty dollars in my piggy bank. Then will it be enough?
Shelly squats in front of Cady.
SHELLY
Maybe! I’ll count all the money when we get home. Okay?
Nobody appears very optimistic.
A limo pulls into the school parking lot.
Everybody is curious.
It pulls up to the townsfolk and the rear window slides down. It’s Jonathan Heart.
HEART
I’m looking for a lost pack of dogs.
James’ grin appears off the side of his mouth.
The kids gather and QUESTION Heart about the pack of dogs. “What’s it look like?” and “A big dog, little dog?”
HEART
No no. I’m afraid they’re coyotes. Very talented ones from what I’ve heard.
All are puzzled except James who folds his arms graciously.
Shelly looks to James for explanation as hope fills her face.
KYLE
We’re the Coyotes!
HEART
Are you sure?
The team ASSURES him.
HEART
Excellent. Because I wouldn’t want to give this check to the wrong group of sluggers.
The kids’ jaws drop as Jonathan holds a check out the window.
Shelly smiles from ear to ear and steps up to James, bewildered.
SHELLY
What’s this? Who is he?
JAMES
Everybody! Say hello to Jonathan Heart. The CEO of John Deere.
The townsfolk are ECSTATIC and grateful.
Shelly can’t believe it.
INT. LIMO - LATER
Jonathan Heart rides in the back seat reading an article in a newspaper with a headline that reads, “Elizabeth’s Coyotes slug their way to the LLWS”.
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - DAY
The bus rolls past the front lawn where the row bushes are used to create a huge sign on the side of a long grassy mound that reads, ”WELCOME LITTLE LEAGUE WORLD SERIES”.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
Thick rubber cables being strung out.
ESPN TV cameras are manned and being tested.
ABC Trailers and TV crews are busy setting up.
Grounds keepers manicure the field.
The white stripes are laid.
The bases mounted.
A huge sign that reads. “Lemade Stadium”.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
PARKING LOT
The Coyote’s bus parks in a large lot filled with vehicles. The door opens.
SHELLY
Come on guys. We’re running a little behind.
Shelly exits the bus.
SHELLY
Wow!
She looks around at the large facility. The Lamade Stadium towers over everything. A far off mountain towers over it.
The team exits the bus. Most of them stretch and yawn. They all have their hats, T-shirts and a pair of baseball pants in their hands or hanging on their shoulders.
SHELLY
Come on. It looks like it’s this way.
MR. MCGRAW
One sec, Shelly.
The group stops.
MR. MCGRAW
Just one thing, boys. When you walk in there, you’re gonna see every kid’s dream. Today, I want you to enjoy it. Take it all in. Love it. Tomorrow, we focus.
KYLE
Yes sir.
BUDDY
Absolutely.
The others all agree. Shelly’s way ahead.
SHELLY
Come on!
CHARLES
Wait til you guys see this!
They run to catch up with Shelly.
STADIUM - LATER
They walk from the gate into the stadium. The Coyotes are mesmerized in total awe. They all hug the fence and look at the amazing field, spin around and check out the grand stands, the sky boxes, cameras and scoreboards.
CADY
Mom, they got three scoreboards!
Many kids in uniform run around the stands. Teams get their pictures taken on the field.
A crying JAPANESE KID 1 runs after another JAPANESE KID 2, wanting his can of soda.
JAPANESE KID 1
Cora cora! Ishu cora cora!
SHELLY
We passed the washrooms on the way in. You guys better suit up.
Coach McGraw stands in a short line behind home plate that has a small banner that reads, “START HERE”.
Shelly finds some space in the stands to sit.
Coach finally gets up to the table where an ORGANIZER (thirties) sits, wearing a badge and a polo shirt with a big Pepsi logo on it.
ORGANIZER
You are?
MR. MCGRAW
McGraw.
ORGANIZER
What team?
MR. MCGRAW
The Coyotes.
The man raises his eyebrows like he’s being bothered.
ORGANIZER
You got to be Great Lakes. They’re the only team that hasn’t showed up yet.
Coach nods then points to a spot on his own face.
MR. MCGRAW
You have a lil’ something right here.
The man reaches for his own face to get it off but there is nothing there.
MR. MCGRAW
No a lil’ higher.
The man tries again.
MR. MCGRAW
No, here.
The man tries again and again.
MR. MCGRAW
Nope.
ORGANIZER
Just forget it! Okay?
MR. MCGRAW
It’s your face.
ORGANIZER
Here’s two programs, your schedule. A score book, your photo shoot. The free rule book. Four tickets, and your badges.
MR. MCGRAW
You should get that looked at.
Coach McGraw walks away. The man wipes his face a few more times and looks at his hand.
Shelly watches coach walk towards her. Charles comes back with his uniform on.
SHELLY
Wooo! Hotsie totsie!
Charles blushes and sits near her.
CHARLES
Too bad Dad couldn’t make it.
SHELLY
Mmmm yeah.
CHARLES
Are you guys like a thing now?
SHELLY
Ha! A thing?
CHARLES
Yeah, no. It’s just he’s acting awfully weird lately.
SHELLY
He is, huh?
CHARLES
Whistles all the time and sings stupid songs.
SHELLY
Ah. I wouldn’t worry about it.
Shelly hums a tune and looks over to see Coach McGraw. The other Coyotes come back, in uniform. They all wear gym shoes. Manny and Micky compliment theirs with black socks.
SHELLY
Wow, you guys really do look like All Stars.
They all look at, adjust and rub their new pants, uncomfortably.
A GROUP OF KIDS in West uniforms stroll by, pointing and laughing at the Coyotes mumbling snide remarks. Shelly notices and so does Joey.
JOEY
Hey! You gotta-
SHELLY
Joey!
He turns his attention to Shelly.
SHELLY
Would you mind doing me a favor?
Joey shrugs and walks over to her.
LATER
The boys are grouped together. Mickey and Manny lace up their gym shoes and wear white socks now. A PHOTOGRAPHER directs them, out in center field.
PHOTOGRAPHER
You, you and you stand behind. You squat down in front. Fine! You guys just wanna goof off, that’s okay with me.
The photographer just SNAPS the pictures.
SERIES OF SHOTS:
The coolest team photo imaginable, classic.
A shot of Kyle with character.
A shot of Buddy picking up a short hop.
END SERIES OF SHOTS.
INT. SCHOOL BUS - NIGHT
Shelly drives the bus trying to listen to Mr. McGraw.
GPS
Veer right and take the motorway.
Coach leans against the side wall, takes up a whole seat. The kids all group around him, listening to his story.
MR. MCGRAW
We all piled in Uncle Tuck’s old Plymouth two door. He took us to a ball field, looked like the one by the red barn, back home.
The kids get a kick out of that.
KYLE
He was your uncle?
MR. MCGRAW
Well, he wasn’t my uncle.
SHELLY
(to herself)
Ha! James.
MR. MCGRAW
All the kids in the neighborhood called him Uncle Tuck. He was Major’s uncle. And his brother Jimmy. Uncle Tuck had a vision. The World Series been in this town ever since.
They pass by a fancy building all lit up, “Peter J. McGovern Little League Museum”, with many visitors.
SHELLY
That’s a museum right there, Coach.
MR. MCGRAW
Yeah, yeah, its real nice. Just follow the GPS, Shelly. It’s not far.
EXT. OLD HOUSE - NIGHT
Coach McGraw knocks on the front door. An old WOMAN answers.
OLD WOMAN
Oh my!
She looks out at all the kids in their jerseys and Shelly.
OLD WOMAN
You’ve got your hands full.
She smiles at Shelly.
MR. MCGRAW
Not sure if it’s too late or if it’s even still here...
OLD WOMAN
We haven’t had any visitors in quite some time.
Shelly is so curious.
SHELLY
Coach.
MR. MCGRAW
Can we...
OLD WOMAN
Of course. You know the way?
MR. MCGRAW
Thank you ma’am.
The woman closes the door.
SHELLY
Coach, what are we doing here?
They walk around the back of the house and to a large tool shed. The woman exits the back of the house with keys in her hand. She unlocks the door, opens it and flips the light switch.
OLD WOMAN
It really has become a forgotten landmark.
They all enter the building. Tables are set along the walls and a glass case in the center of the room. The boys are intrigued. Shelly’s touched.
BUDDY
Cool!
KYLE
What is this place?
JOEY
A whistle.
MR. MCGRAW
Old Tuck used that whistle at his very first try out.
JOEY
Wow!
ARNIE
What’s the string for?
MR. MCGRAW
Carl used it to measure the bases. Sixty feet. He’s the guy that made up all the rules for Little League.
TOMMY
Why’s there a bush in here?
Tommy points to the glass case. An old dried up lilac bush sits in there, next to a weird looking ball.
MR. MCGRAW
He cut his leg on that very bush cuz Major tossed the ball over his head. He always said, that’s what gave him the idea to start Little League.
CHARLES
And that’s the original ball. Right, Grandpa?
MR. MCGRAW
That’s right. It’s made of tape.
BUDDY
Awesome.
OLD WOMAN
So, I take it you boys have made it to the Series?
They all nod. Shelly’s so proud of them.
KYLE
Yes ma’am.
OLD WOMAN
You remind me of the Little Leaguers from back then.
Shelly’s eyes gel with tears. She turns to look at some of the other memorabilia, dabs her eyelid with her index finger.
OLD WOMAN (O.C.)
Can I fix you all some hot chocolate?
“Yeah!”, the kids yell out.
MR. MCGRAW
You coming, Shelly?
SHELLY
Yeah, Coach.
Shelly puts on a happy face.
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - DAY
KELLY CLARKSON SINGS the last few lines of the Star Spangled Banner.
The teams are aligned throughout the field. The West team is lined up along the third base line and the Coyotes are lined up along the first base line. 
Shelly sits in the stands quite a distance away.
CLARKSON
“And the home of the brave.”
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
Parents, check your programs or your team schedules for the time and field your team will be playing.
She looks around at all the support the other teams have, discouraged. The banners sway. Long balloons wobble.
She stuffs extra tickets in her purse, discouraged.
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
Now, the lineup for the Great Lakes, Elizabeth Coyotes.
Their one dedicated fan stands up and cheers.
SHELLY
Go Coyotes!
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
Coach Omar McGraw.
Coach steps forward, waves his hat.
SHELLY
Omar? Ha! Figures.
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
Joey Oswego.
Joey steps up, waves his hat, takes two bows, waves his hat. Coach reaches for Joey’s shoulder and drags him back in line.
SHELLY
Yeah, Joey!
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
Kyle Blankenheimer.
SHELLY
Yeah, Kyle!
She gets up on the seat of the bench.
SHELLY
I love you, Kyle!
Some spectators look at her weirdly.
SHELLY
He’s my son.
She gets down.
SHELLY
(to herself)
We really need some fans.
INT. BAR - DAY
The TV plays. It shows BRENT MUSBURGER interviewing Cady.
MUSBURGER
(on TV)
One last question before I head upstairs. Who’s your favorite player in baseball?
CADY
(on TV)
Coach McGraw. He’s teaching me how to catch.
Cady runs off.
MUSBURGER
(on TV)
There ya have it. Coach McGraw. Okay kiddo. Go get em’!
Musburger looks both ways for Cady who’s already gone.
We descend away from the TV to see that just the TV and sunbeams brighten the dark and desolate bar.
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - DAY
Cady races to the lineup just in time.
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
And the bat girl, Cady Blankenheimer.
SHELLY
What a sweetheart.
Shelly picks up her sign and waves it. She suddenly looks very surprised.
Through the entrance to the stands comes James, Alice, Melisa, Mr. Gibbons and many other familiar faces including Jonathan Heart and his secretary.
Shelly waves the sign ecstatically.
SHELLY
James! James! Over here! Oh my God!
James finally sees her and raises both arms. Alice and Melisa wave.
LATER
The Coyote fans munch on hotdogs, chips and drinks.
ALICE
This is so exciting!
SHELLY
I can’t believe you drove the other bus all the way to Pennsylvania, Mister Gibbons.
GIBBONS
It’s all James’ fault.
Shelly nudges James.
SHELLY
You dork.
JAMES
I had to come to PA anyway. I got a great big settlement check. (beat) Actually, I wouldn’t miss it for the world.
SHELLY
So, your divorce is final then?
CRACK. The crowd roars. The ball flies out of the park for a home run. Buddy rounds the bases.
The group cheers and jumps with excitement.
JAMES
We’re back on top.
The scoreboard shows the Coyotes winning 4 to 3.
SHELLY
All right, Buddy! This is so cool! I was getting lonely. Talking to the trees.
James laughs.
JAMES
I’m surprised you’re not hanging out in the dugout.
Shelly wraps her arms around his arm and rests her head.
SHELLY
There’s no place I’d rather be.
CRACK. Arnie smacks a homer.
The group cheers again.
MELISA
They’re so good!
SHELLY
Ooh, James, Charles is up!
JAMES
If he hits a home run, I’ll pee myself.
CRACK. Another home run.
The whole crowd cheers. The Coyote fans jump up and down. Shelly looks to see if James is wet, then laughs.
JAMES
The answer is yes.
SHELLY
You peed yourself?
JAMES
My divorce!
SHELLY
Oh! Good for you, James.
INT. HOTEL - HALLWAY - NIGHT
Coach McGraw, Shelly and James carry small travel bags and walk down the corridor. James looks at the room numbers.
JAMES
Three seventeen.
He hands Shelly a key card.
JAMES
You take this one.
SHELLY
You okay, Coach? You look tired.
MR. MCGRAW
I hope the shower works.
Coach slips his key card in the door and enters. The door slams shut.
SHELLY
I could have stayed with the team.
JAMES
You’ve paid your dues. I’m the one that should be sleeping in a tent.
SHELLY
Kids haven’t cried about camping. It was nice of Jonathan to volunteer.
JAMES
Melisa didn’t want to come sleep in a comfy bed?
SHELLY
I asked. She’s... being weird.
JAMES
We can get some Pinot Grigio.
SHELLY
Only if you let me bring my pillow and lay my head on the bar.
JAMES
Ha!
James shoulders his bag.
JAMES
Okay then.
He tries to open the door and it’s locked. He knocks. Shelly giggles. The door finally opens.
JAMES
Jeez, Father! Put some clothes on.
MR. MCGRAW (O.C.)
I’m taking a shower.
Shelly laughs as she enters her room.
ROOM 317
Shelly snuggles her bag and ponders as she leans on the door. She toys with her wedding band, pulls it off and pockets it.
LATER
Shelly awakens by loud SNORING through the wall. She switches beds.
SHELLY
God! I hope that’s not James.
She sinks her head in the pillow. A TAP on the door. She’s curious then smiles.
She jumps out of bed and runs to the door. She stops, flips the light switch, does a once over in the mirror and opens the door.
JAMES
I’m terribly sorry.
Shelly fake stretches and yawns. Smirks at his striped, convict pajamas.
SHELLY
What’s wrong?
JAMES
It’s Father.
Shelly appears confused.
JAMES
He’s keeping me awake.
SHELLY
Really? Why is that?
JAMES
It’s horrible and you know it.
SHELLY
So, you want to sleep in here?
James gives her an irresistible, desperate look.
SHELLY
I guess.
She steps aside, makes way.
LATER
Shelly and James in separate beds, snuggle in their quilts, face to face. The moonlight shines on them. Staring at each other. And staring. And staring. Loud SNORING.
At the same time, they both fling the covers off get up between the beds and kiss passionately.
MORNING
James wakes up from the TV coverage of the Little League tournament.
BOB COSTAS
The Coyotes seem to be the team to beat. Four homers in two games. Haven’t lost once since this tournament started and beat last year’s defending champs. We go to the North Field...
SHELLY
Coffee?
JAMES
Mmmm.
Shelly brings him a cup and sits on his bed.
SHELLY
Listen.
JAMES
What?
SHELLY
It’s so quiet.
JAMES
Ha. He’s living his dream.
SHELLY
He took the boys and I to the Carl Stotz museum. It was so touching. And he’s not your Uncle, dork.
JAMES
You mean Uncle Tuck.
SHELLY
Ha! The sweetest old lady lives there and made us hot chocolate.
JAMES
Nice.
Shelly sets her coffee on the night stand, leans forward and kisses James.
SHELLY
We have to get ready.
James reaches for a key card on the night stand.
JAMES
Key card.
Shelly smiles.
James walks out of her room. The door slams shut.
Shelly gets up and shakes a quilt as to make a bed. She’s startled by loud THUMPS on her door. She hurries to answer. James is frantic.
JAMES
Call Nine One One!
He dashes back to his room. The door slams shut.
SHELLY
Oh my God! What?
Shelly hurries for her phone.
ROOM 319
Coach McGraw sits up on the floor, leans between the two beds, struggles to breathe.
James rushes to his rescue.
JAMES
Shelly’s calling an ambulance!
MR. MCGRAW
I’m not gonna make it, Son.
JAMES
You’ll be fine, Father. Just hang in there.
Coach reaches for his cap that lies on the floor.
MR. MCGRAW
If you win the next game, you’ll...
Coach struggles for air and is in pain.
MR. MCGRAW
...play tonight in the finals.
JAMES
Don’t worry about that, Dad! Just breathe.
MR. MCGRAW
Take it.
JAMES
I might have some Aspirin.
MR. MCGRAW
Take it!
JAMES
Okay, just take it easy.
Coach loses consciousness.
HALLWAY
The key card is still in the door to 319. Shelly opens their door in a panic.
ROOM 319
Shelly rushes in and stops. She puts her hand over her mouth. Tears of fright fill her eyes.
JAMES
Dad! Dad! He’s still breathing.
SIRENS can be heard.
SHELLY
Here they come.
Shelly races to the window. She turns about.
SHELLY
I’ll meet them in the lobby.
JAMES
Dad, can you hear me?
James listens for a heartbeat.
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - DAY
James stands on the field just outside the fence of the dugout. Charles by his side. James has his arm around him.
JAMES
He’s going to be fine!
The Coyotes are miserable. Cady cries.
CADY
A heart attack?
Shelly sits in the stands with the Coyote fans. She wipes her tears with a tissue. They console her.
SHELLY
They said he’s gonna be okay.
MELISA
Take it easy, sweetie. Everything is going to be fine.
Melisa strokes Shelly’s hair.
SHELLY
The kids.
James puts on Coach’s cap pacing outside the dugout.
JAMES
Look! I know he’s the best coach ever and all you guys know more about this game than I do, but I’m here.
The team doesn’t really care.
SHELLY
I’m here too!
She appears wearing a coyote cap also. Walks near James. The team’s very sceptical.
CADY
And I’m here!
Cady wipes muddy tears from her eyes. Kyle grins.
BUDDY
Shut up Cady.
KYLE
Give er’ a break, Buddy.
CADY
I do everything anyway. You think Coach wants us to sit around and cry about it?
Shelly smiles.
SHELLY
You’re not a bunch of cry babies.
James looks surprised at Shelly.
CADY
He got us here to win it!
SHELLY
You guys are winners.
JAMES
Yeah. Winners.
CADY
I ain’t goin’ home without that trophy!
Kyle and Buddy look at each other and at the same time, tap their chest 4 times with their fists and high five each other, turn around and...

The team chants, “focus”, repeatedly. Shelly joins in and then James joins in.
Those two Japanese kids run by the dugout.
JAPANESE KID 1
(crying)
Ishu cora cora!
LATER
The Coyotes play catch in the field, warming up.
Cady sits on the bench nearest the opening to the dugout. James next to her and Shelly next to James. Cady scribbles in the score book.
CADY
Then just fill in the diamond if the runner scores. Like that.
Both James and Shelly make a face like, that’s not so hard. The Japanese kid taps on Cady’s shoulder.
JAPANESE KID 1
Atashu cora cora?
CADY
Huh?
JAPANESE KID 1
Atashu cora cora?
CADY
Kid, I don’t know what you’re saying.
The little Japanese kid hands Cady a can of Coca Cola that he was hiding behind his back.
JAPANESE KID 1
Solly ashiki ta Coash MiGlaw
Cady looks at her mom.
SHELLY
I think he said, sorry about Coach McGraw.
Cady looks grateful. She holds out her hand for the kid to slap her five, and he does.
CADY
Thanks. Wanna play catch?
Cady sets the book down and they run out to the field.
JAMES
How old is she, again?
SHELLY
Hahahaha! She’s picked up a few things from Coach, huh?
James laughs.
JAMES
You know, you can sit in the stands if you’d like.
Shelly snugs up next to James.
SHELLY
There’s no place I’d rather be.
LATER
Kyle SLIDES into home plate.
UMPIRE
Safe!
Shelly rushes out from the dugout meets Kyle halfway, picks him up at the chest and spins him around then sets him down.
SHELLY
Way to go, Kyle! Woo who!
Kyle holds up his arms, annoyed.
LATER
Buddy bats and takes a pitch.
SHELLY
Good eye, Buddy.
The kids on the bench sort of stare at her funny.
LATER
Kyle pitches the ball home.
UMPIRE
Strike.
Shelly jumps up, clapping.
SHELLY
Come on, Kyle. One more!
CADY
This is a pitcher’s duel, Mom. Maybe turn it down, just a little.
The scoreboards show the Coyotes winning 1 to nothing in the fifth inning. Kyle pitches the ball home.
UMPIRE
Strike three!
Shelly jumps up excited, sees Cady staring at her and turns it down a little. The Coyotes run in to bat.
LATER
Kyle gets his glove on. The Team heads out of the dugout reciting “focus”. They high five Cady on the way out. Shelly smacks Kyle on the butt. He gives her a dirty look.
SHELLY
Three more outs, pal.
LATER
The umpire points to first base.
UMPIRE
Take your base.
Kyle digs at the mound with his gym shoe.
SHELLY
Focus, baby! Is he getting tired, Cady?
Cady’s bent over, hands on her knees, chewing gum. She looks at her mom, claps, puts her hands back her knees and spits.
CADY
All leather, bro.
LATER
The umpire points to first base again.
UMPIRE
Ball four.
Kyle’s upset with himself, sweeps the dirt with his mitt.
CADY
Charles!
Charles looks at Cady. Cady does their ritual, 4 pounds to the chest and holds her fist up. Charles steps in front of the plate and does it.
CHARLES
Focus!
Cady walks up to James and Shelly.
CADY
You gotta go out there, Mister.
JAMES
What, who me? And do what?
CADY
You gotta pull Kyle and put in Joey.
JAMES
Which one is Joey, again?
CADY
Left field.
James looks out to the field, uncertain.
Cady points.
CADY
There. The goofy one.
Joey, in slow motion, runs backwards and reaches for the invisible ball.
JOEY
Joey Oswego runs back and makes the catch! He wins the game single handed.
JAMES
Yeah Joey. Okay, take out Kyle...
James makes his way out there looking completely uncomfortable.
JAMES
...and put in Joey.
James nears the pitcher’s mound. Buddy trots to the mound.
JAMES
What a fantastic job you’re doing, Kyle.
Kyle nods, disappointed.
JAMES
I don’t know how to tell you this, Son, but Cady says I have to take you out.
Kyle nods and slaps the ball into Buddy’s glove.
BUDDY
We’ll get em’ out, Mister McGraw.
UMPIRE
Eight warm ups, Son.
James looks at the umpire.
JAMES
If you wouldn’t mind, just one second. Ah, I don’t know exactly how to tell you this, Buddy, but Cady said I should put in Joey.
Buddy peaks around James at Cady. Cady fists her heart. Buddy hands the ball to James. He walks towards third looking at Kyle.
BUDDY
I don’t know what she’s doing.
Kyle runs to left field and Joey runs towards the mound.
Alice, Melisa and the others are on the edge of their seats.
ALICE
Oh my God! They’re bringing Joey in to pitch?
Joey takes the ball from James, shrugs his shoulders a few times, kicks the dirt around, adjusts his hat.
JAMES
Just do the best you can, Son.
The other Coyotes start some CHATTER to fire Joey up.
Joey gets set. Charles shows one finger and pushes his palm down.
Joey winds up and throws a low fastball. The batter swings and hits a fast one hopper to Manny who snags it, side arms it to Mickey who fires to Arnie at first base.
UMPIRE 2
Out!
The crowd CHEERS.
INT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / PRESS BOX - LATER
Musburger speaks into a microphone.
MUSBURGER
Double play! These Coyotes have something to prove. There’s been only one other double play in the whole tournament...
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - MOMENTS LATER
Cady claps from the dugout.
CADY
One more, Joey.
The Coyote fans start chanting, “Joey, Joey”.
Charles drops two fingers and presses his palm down.
Joey agrees and decides to pitch from the stretch. He gets set and stares at the runner on third. He stares some more.
Joey fires the ball. The ball curves into the dirt.
Charles manages to glove the ball in the pocket of his mitt. He continues to swing around, raises a lot of dust, dragging his mitt through the dirt.
The umpire jumps out of the way.
Charles takes a few steps towards the backstop. He acts like he can’t find the ball.
The runner on third breaks for home as does Joey. They race for home plate where the dust settles. The third base coach twirls his arm, jumping, pointing towards home plate.
Charles turns around, takes a few steps back towards the plate and tags the runner in plenty of time, fooling him completely. He shows the umpire the ball.
UMPIRE
Out!
The crowd ROARS.
Charles holds the ball in his hand, runs wild around the infield.
The Coyotes rush him and cheer.
JOEY
Dude, that was great! It totally worked just like ya said! Hahahaha.
JAMES
What just happened?
Shelly jumps up onto James, wraps her arms around his neck.
SHELLY
We won! We won! We’re in the finals!
INT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / PRESS BOX - LATER
Musburger.
MUSBURGER
And the Elizabeth Coyotes are going to the finals. These Little Leaguers just never cease to amaze me...
INT. HOSPITAL - CONTINUOUS
The TV shows Musburger. Coach’s heart monitor BEEPS.
MUSBURGER
...A wacky stunt by the catcher, Charles McGraw, gets them out of a jam and into the Championship game. Holy Toledo!
MR. MCGRAW
That’s my grandson.
The NURSE looks towards the TV.
NURSE
Oh, how exciting! You must be so proud.
MR. MCGRAW
Here, here it comes. Watch the replay.
EXT - WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / REC. AREA - DAY
The Coyotes rest near a pond. Some lay in the grass, against a tree. Passersby come and go. They pick grass and whip stones, down in the dumps.
Micky and Manny each have a dowel rod, search for rocks.
CHARLES
My dad said Coach ain’t going to make it...
Cady drops her head down, makes like she’s going to cry.
CHARLES
...but he’s watching us on TV.
She becomes straight faced. Looks around, unnoticed. Shelly and James approach with food and drinks.
JAMES
The Japanese won their game last night.

CHARLES
They won it last year.
JOEY
Kill the Japanese!
Everybody shuts up, stares at Joey like he’s a freak.
CADY
I’m glad they won.
James and Shelly look at each other, impressed.
SHELLY
Who wants cheeseburgers?
The kids are hungry.
EXT - WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / REC. AREA - NIGHT
The spectators CLAP. The Coyotes and the Japanese team walk towards their respective dugouts.
Shelly awaits the Coyotes. She wears a Coyote T-shirt and a ponytail slipped through the back of her baseball cap, clapping. James looks intimidated, out of place.
ANNOUNCER PA (O.C.)
And now if we may have your attention. I would like to introduce the winner of last year’s Baseball Mom of the Year Award, Heidi Smith.
Some mild applause. HEIDI SMITH (thirties) stands at a microphone in front of home plate.
HEIDI
Every year, Little League chooses a “Baseball Mom of the Year” based on essays that are written by their kids, and submitted to a committee at Little League dot com. The entry that was chosen, if I may add, describes this year’s baseball mom, perfectly.
Shelly, arms folded, gently hip bumps James just outside the dugout. She looks at James so proudly.
SHELLY
A coach’s dream come true, huh?
JAMES
I’m sure he’s watching it.
Shelly rolls her eyes.
Heidi, reads from a paper.
HEIDI
“My mom is a rookie at best. She doesn’t even like Coach McGraw.”
Shelly, James, all the kids look at each other totally weird and confused.
Their fans look confused too.
HEIDI
“At least she agreed we can play one game and she stuck it out so we could win Districts.”
Kyle looks humiliated. He takes a seat on the bench by himself.
HEIDI
“And she did try to get the school to fix up the baseball field.”
Shelly looks over to Kyle with suspicion. She walks up to the fence.
SHELLY
(inconspicuously)
Did you write this?
Kyle has his mitt over his face, nods.
HEIDI
“But Coach and James fixed it up for us and Mom kissed James so there is still hope.”
The crowd laughs.
Shelly holds up her arms.
SHELLY
(to Kyle)
What are you saying?
HEIDI
“James is Coaches’ son, Charles is James’ son and he’s our catcher.”
All the Coyotes stare at Kyle.
The Coyote’s fans realize.
ALICE
It must be Kyle’s essay.
HEIDI
“But she’s my mom. A mom that’s raising two kids on her own. My dad died in Iraq when we were little.”
Shelly looks at Kyle compassionately.
HEIDI
“She moved us from the city into the middle of nowhere so she can be a teacher. Thank God though. There wouldn’t be any Coyotes. She’s not really the Baseball Mom type, so we asked James to shmooze her, and you never know with a rookie.”
People laugh again.
HEIDI
“And she’s a good cook.”
More laughs.
HEIDI
“Well, I guess we’ll just have to wait and see cause this is the last day to turn this in. Go Coyotes! Kyle Blankenheimer.”
The whole stadium stands and applauds.
SHELLY
Awe, Kyle!
The Coyotes tease him.
KYLE
Shut up, jerks!
HEIDI
This year’s award goes to Ms. Shelly Blankenheimer!
SHELLY
Now look, I gotta go up there!
Shelly turns to James.
JAMES
You’ll be fine. Way to go, Kyle.
James is truly impressed, clapping.
LATER
Shelly accepts the award as the crowd settles down.
SHELLY
Thank you for this. I’ll treasure it. I love you, Kyle!
She holds the award up and waves to the fans who CHEER.
INT - HOSPITAL - NIGHT
Coach wipes tears from his eyes with a tissue.
MR. MCGRAW
That’s my future daughter in-law.
NURSE
And the manager is your son?
Coach is so proud.
MR. MCGRAW
He sure is.
Coach’s TV shows James and Shelly hugging each other outside the dugout.
MUSBURGER (O.C.)
The Coyotes’ catcher’s...
INT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / PRESS BOX - NIGHT
Musburger.
MUSBURGER
...father, James McGraw, and this year’s Baseball Mom are the interim Coaches for the Coyotes...
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - NIGHT
Shelly and James hug and peck on the lips just outside their dugout.
The team WOOS at them. Cady snarls at the smitten ball club.
CADY
Snap out of it, dorks! We gotta game to play.
The boys stir in the dugout.
LATER
The JAPANESE COACH (thirties), short and skinny, prances in front of their dugout.
JAPANESE COACH
Aki shee an amoto! Hi!
He’s furious and points to the outfield. Waves his outfielder to move back. Charles swings and hits a long drive for a home run. The crowd ROARS.
JAPANESE COACH
Ah tashi hi.
The Japanese coach drops to his knees and hangs his head low.
Cady grabs the bat and meets Charles at home plate with a high five.
CADY
Ain’t nobody going home for this one!
Charles looks up at the packed stadium. The scoreboard shows the Coyotes winning 3 to 1 in the third inning.
LATER
Buddy pitches the ball home.
UMPIRE
Strike!
The little Japanese batter strikes out, mad and taps the bat on his helmet a couple times.
Buddy pitches the ball to the next batter who swings and hits a line drive. Kyle, dives and makes the catch.
The coyotes run to the dugout.
Shelly, just outside the dugout, does some goofy hip-hop dance for Kyle as he runs past.
SHELLY
(singing)
“Catch me if I’m falling”.
Kyle’s disgusted, ignores her.
SHELLY
Okay, a few insurance runs.
CADY
Mom, please!
SHELLY
Okay! Jeez.
CADY
Micky, Manny, Tommy!
LATER
Tommy walks. The bases are loaded for the Coyotes.
SHELLY
Hey yo! You wanna give us the game? Okay, we’ll take it, we’ll take it.
The whole bench laughs at her dance moves.
Joey comes up to bat.
The Japanese coach walks to the mound and yells at the poor kid who pitches. The coach makes like he cuts his own throat. He turns to the dugout and points.
A huge Japanese boy, MOTO, grabs his mitt, strolls out of the dugout towards the mound.
The Japanese fans chant, “Moto, Moto, Moto”.
LATER
A not at all intimidated Joey, steps in the box, twirls his bat, kicks dirt like a bull and gets set.
JOEY
Time, Blue.
UMPIRE
Time!
Joey walks halfway to third and Micky walks to meet him, then they share a secret.
Joey walks back to the box.
The Japanese coach urges the third baseman to move up towards home, twirling his hand.
JAPANESE COACH
Giggy mow! Giggy mow!
The pitcher, Moto, winds up.
Joey shows like he’s going to bunt.
The pitch flies right at Joey’s head, He ducks, falls to the ground on his butt.
UMPIRE
You okay, Son?
JOEY
Yeah, but, I smell Teryaki.
The umpire smiles pathetically, pulls down his mask and points to the overgrown pitcher. The third baseman creeps in.
The pitch. Joey swings. The ball flies high and deep to center field. The outfielder goes back, back, back. A grand slam.
Alice and most of the crowd ROAR and CHEER while Joey rounds the bases. All the Coyotes meet him at home plate.
Joey trots around third, just about home, turns on his slow motion act and dives for home plate.
KYLE
Hotdog!
Kyle smiles huge waiting for Joey.
INT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS / PRESS BOX - NIGHT
Musburger.
MUSBURGER
The Coyotes have been playing great baseball. Undefeated throughout all three tournaments. Winning seven to three here in the final inning, have found themselves in a real jam. Bases loaded. Two outs and look who’s up!
EXT. WILLIAMSPORT LLWS - NIGHT
Moto is in the on deck circle, swings three bats at one time.
CADY
I’m not sure, Mom! Let me think.
Concerned faces as James’ cell phone RINGS. He answers it.
JAMES
Hello. Oh, how -
(pauses) yes. She’s right here.
James hands the phone to Cady. Cady looks at him strangely and grabs the phone.
CADY
Hello?
JAMES
(to Shelly)
It’s my father.
SHELLY
Oh! How is he?
CADY
That’s right! Yeah, Okay!
Cady hands the phone to James who’s curious.
CADY
You have to go out there, pull Buddy and put in Kyle.
JAMES
Not Joey?
CADY
Pull Buddy. Put in Kyle.
Cady pushes him out there.
LATER
James steps up on the mound.
JAMES
Fantastic game, Buddy. Just fantastic.
Kyle points to himself. Joey points to himself unsure.
James points to Kyle. Buddy looks at him strangely. Kyle runs over and James gives him the ball.
The Japanese coach races up to the umpire and makes arm gestures left and right, madly.
The umpire walks up to James.
UMPIRE
I think he’s saying, this kid pitched your last game.
JAMES
That’s correct. He did.
UMPIRE
Well, he has to miss a game then.
JAMES
Is this the rules, Kyle?
Kyle looks over to Cady. Cady shrugs her shoulders like she don’t know. James’ cell phone RINGS again. He pulls it from his pocket to answer it.
JAMES
Oh! Here we go.
He holds a finger up for the umpire to wait. Then puts it in his ear.
The umpire makes a face of impatience.
UMPIRE
Who is that?
JAMES
He says it’s the bullpen.
James smiles at the umpire.
JAMES
And that Kyle only threw forty seven pitches. He’s allowed fifty.
The umpire sighs, walks over to the Japanese dugout. Discusses with the coach. The coach looks at his book. Screams a little and gives up. The Umpire walks back.
UMPIRE
You get three pitches, kid. That’s it.
LATER
James makes it back to the dugout.
JAMES
Three pitches. That’s all he gets.
SHELLY
Oh, my!
(quietly)
Come on, baby. Do it for mamma.
The Japanese coach, just outside his dugout, swings his wrists and hands, motioning to Moto not to swing.
A disappointed Moto gets in the box.
Kyle winds up and delivers.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Moto looks at his coach angrily, holds his arms up.
His coach stands there, contemplates. Finally, he gestures, don’t swing then changes his mind and gestures like he’s swinging a bat.
JAPANESE COACH
Ashi ta, ashi ta!
Kyle winds up and fires home. The batter swings and CRACK. The ball flies high and deep down the left field line and over the fence.
The crowd ROARS.
UMPIRE
Foul ball!
The crowd WOES.
MUSBURGER (O.C.)
Bases loaded. Two outs. Two strikes. Here’s the pitch!
Kyle winds up and fires. The batter swings.
UMPIRE
Strike!
Great CHEER from the audience. Alice, Melisa and all the other Coyote fans jump for joy.
Shelly and James CHEER and hug.
The Coyotes make a big pile of Little Leaguers between the mound and home plate.
Cady comes running back from the pile with her arms out wide, SCREAMING happy. James picks her up and twirls her around.
CADY
You did a great job, Coach!
JAMES
Who me? What? I did? You! You did it!
Shelly’s euphoric, holds her hands to her mouth. Tears of joy in her eyes. She watches the spectators cheer, the kids pile on, the scoreboard flashes and fireworks BLOW OFF behind it.
James carries Cady and walks over to Shelly.
JAMES
You know, you could be home tending to your garden.
Shelly wraps her two arms around James, smiles at him.
SHELLY
There’s no place I’d rather be.
FADE OUT.

Author's Note

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