Although I am a HUGE proponent of NECC's instrucion for catchers, and there are some significant differences in the teaching approach by Jen Schroeder, I have signed my 10yo DD for an upcoming Packaged Deal clinic (The Package - The Packaged Deal - www.packageddeal.com) run by Jen.
As I see it, NECC excels at finite details of positioning and mechanics. Especially for catchers just being introduced to proper stances, footwork, and glove positions, NECC can't be beat (IMO). Jen's approach is much more athletic, and (based on the videos I've seen) seems to put more focus on speed, fitness, and agility than precise technique. I know that Jay @ NECC doesn't agree with the rapid-fire drills taught by Jen. If the drill starts breaking down proper mechanics, and puts the player in a dangerous position, I tend to agree with Jay.
However, I think there is something valuable to be gained from Jen's approach. Although there will never be a time in a game situation where a catcher will have to face rapid-fire pitches and make multiple blocks in a row, I can see that the inclusion of some rapid-fire work helps a lot to build speed, improve reflexes, and increase overall fitness. A fast and athletic catcher is a good thing. Strength and fitness helps a catcher do their job better, for longer.
Inspired by some of Jen's drills, a few months ago, I started including some rapid-fire blocking work with my DD. 3 blocks - center, right side, left side. Between each pitch, she returns to a proper runners-on stance. If her blocking form is poor, we re-set and start again. My DD has commented to me that this drill has helped a lot in getting her reflexes up to speed to be able to block in a game situation.
The clinic is Dec 22, and I will provide some commentary after we attend.
Has anyone else attended a Packaged Deal clinic or worked with Jen Schroeder?
As I see it, NECC excels at finite details of positioning and mechanics. Especially for catchers just being introduced to proper stances, footwork, and glove positions, NECC can't be beat (IMO). Jen's approach is much more athletic, and (based on the videos I've seen) seems to put more focus on speed, fitness, and agility than precise technique. I know that Jay @ NECC doesn't agree with the rapid-fire drills taught by Jen. If the drill starts breaking down proper mechanics, and puts the player in a dangerous position, I tend to agree with Jay.
However, I think there is something valuable to be gained from Jen's approach. Although there will never be a time in a game situation where a catcher will have to face rapid-fire pitches and make multiple blocks in a row, I can see that the inclusion of some rapid-fire work helps a lot to build speed, improve reflexes, and increase overall fitness. A fast and athletic catcher is a good thing. Strength and fitness helps a catcher do their job better, for longer.
Inspired by some of Jen's drills, a few months ago, I started including some rapid-fire blocking work with my DD. 3 blocks - center, right side, left side. Between each pitch, she returns to a proper runners-on stance. If her blocking form is poor, we re-set and start again. My DD has commented to me that this drill has helped a lot in getting her reflexes up to speed to be able to block in a game situation.
The clinic is Dec 22, and I will provide some commentary after we attend.
Has anyone else attended a Packaged Deal clinic or worked with Jen Schroeder?