What Constitutes A Great Lesson For Us Coaches

I told one of my students and at another time a parent, the reason I do this is because I'm an artist. I like taking blanks kids and turning them into something that others watch in amazement. Being a pitching coach is a lot like making a fine painting or piece of art and putting it on display. I read Rick's and JJ's testimonials and see the same thing, artists trying to create something from nothing, we are artist, our pitchers are works of art. It's synergistic art though, it takes two to create, one with knowledge and the other with drive and talent. I do it for free, I just have to find the right girl to work with, one with drive, one with potential.

I'm training my third IR pitcher now, readying her for when the Senior graduates this year. She works hard, want's to be the best, has never pitched a day in her life. She'll be more than ready for backup duties come this spring. Another pleasure to work with.

I was pleasantly surprised today when a 10U girl started off a session by telling me about the Hillhouse videos she'd been studying on YouTube! Awesome conversation! She also talked about a Finch video she watched and demonstrated the differences to me between what was being taught and what she observed when Finch demo'd at full speed! I'll make sure they have links to the JS, Balswick and PaulyGirl videos on YouTube! Looking forward to next week with her/dad!

I love going to my DD's lessons because I love being a part of her every day life. Do I get as excited going to her stage production rehearsals? Honestly, probably not quite as much, but I still love it just the same. I feel it is important for her to know that I support her in everything she does. Not just what I happen to like the most. Does she know I am still proud and support her when I can't be there? Absolutely, but there is nothing like the smile on her face when she confirms that I am going to her activities with her.

I gave a lesson yesterday to a new 10U player who had not played before. I had a blast. We went 40 minutes and the mom is very knowledgeable about the game. For me, it was a lot of fun but more importantly, the player said when we were done that she had fun. I think this young lady has a lot of natural ability and so I can't wait to see how she progresses. For some of you older instructors that have been around like me, I hope you have one or two young ones who have never played the game as students. Their perspective and attitude can be infectious.

I just worked with catchers this morning. I have coached one off and on for 2 years and the other is a new student. This was within a team practice but I was given about 45 minutes to work with them. They are 12U and really willing to listen and learn. The dd asked me to come and help and so, I'll probably work with them a lot more this year.

Hosted Anna Miller for a couple clinics today. Fun time and I hope the kids took away some of the technical and life advice she shared with them. Awesome message about hard work, commitment and life priorities!

Rick,
You were right--awesome stories! Wish we had more time to chat, but it was very clear to see your influences in her as an athlete, pitcher and person.

Ken
I should have adopted her and kept her on the East Coast......