And we complain about the snow …

Every year, Mat-Su athletes who participate in spring sports are at the mercy of Mother Nature. It’s not until late April until local teams can hit the field or track. It’s usually May before there’s a baseball or softball game.

But in reality, it could be much worse.

Not convinced?

Take a look at what’s going on in Texas.

According to the Associated Press, the University Interscholastic League — the ASAA of Texas — postponed all public high school athletic and academic events until May 11 due to the recent outbreak of the much-talked about swine flu.

Baseball and softball seasons will be suspended, the AP reported, and the region track and field meets have been cancelled. Numerous schools have been closed because of the fear of swine flu.

Athletes who compete in spring sports such as baseball, softball, track and soccer often get the raw deal in Alaska. There are many baseball or soccer teams that won’t even get in 10 games this season. But imagine if your senior year of baseball got cut short because of swine flu.

Maybe we shouldn’t complain too much about our short spring seasons.

— Jeremiah Bartz