50-to-1 That is the ratio of the number of high school baseball players who eventually will get the opportunity to play at Division 1 college baseball. For players right here in New England, the odds drop to 96-to-1. For this lucky one who did earn a baseball scholarship, it will cover only a … [Read more...]
Fay: What do baseball players need in a coach?
Coaches, I know we don’t play favorites, but let’s be honest, we probably do play favorites. At one time or another, you have said, “I wish I had 12 Billys on this team,” or “I’d trade Jimmy for a pack of sunflower seeds” based on certain attitudes or characteristics. As one coach said to me last … [Read more...]
Fay: Eight simple tips for helping your player reach his potential
I led a talk for Positive Coaching Alliance last month with more than 25 Little League programs across New England, and I posed the following question: “What is your biggest challenge as a volunteer coach?” Perhaps leading an effective practice? Nope. Coaching a team comprised of different talent … [Read more...]
Volunteer Coach: Making forward strides amid avalanche of swing advice
Is there any movement in all of sports discussed, analyzed and debated more than a baseball swing? Do I swing down on the ball? Or up? High-leg kick like Donaldson? Or no stride like Molitor? Back elbow up or down? One-hand finish or two? Is hitting rotational or linear? What’s more important: my … [Read more...]
How to handle young pitchers
Biggest influence? Parents
Following Game 2 of the World Series, Mookie Betts was asked, "Do you ever get stressed out in a big situation? You always seem so relaxed." "I found something that helps me to breathe," Betts said with a smile. That "something" — according to the AL MVP favorite and World Series champion — is the … [Read more...]
