WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Members of a semi-pro Kansas baseball team say the 9-year-old batboy who died after being accidentally hit by a follow-through swing was energetic and hard-working, and had a nearly constant smile.

The coach and players of the Liberal Bee Jays said Monday that Kaiser Carlile was an important member of their team and always reminded them to play hard and have fun.

Kaiser died a day after he was hit in the head with a bat Saturday during the Bee Jays’ game at the National Baseball Congress World Series in Wichita. The boy, who lived in Liberal, was wearing a helmet at the time.

His parents have insisted that the team continue playing. The National Baseball Congress is planning several events to honor Kaiser.