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RockiesJeff's picture

Jeff, thanks.  I feel awful that John had  such an experience with the coach.  Sadly, those guys are not limited to Seattle.  I agree about the well adjusted childhood.  You have a great approach and it has been obvious through your articles.  Baseball or whatever it might be is a game and honestly, nothing more.  Guys on this board really seem to understand that. 
Here is a question for you, with all of the specializing in one sport for so many kids today....back in the old days we all played every sport for the most part or at least tried, do you really think that the quality of the baseball player has improved?  We might develop some young Goliath like a Harper but overall, especially with pitching, even with all the kids in competitive leagues, there is a huge void of pitching every year.  That despite the influx of foreign players.  Just a thought...I sometimes watch the kids today and wonder how many steps back we take without knowing it.
Oh yes, your question.  Sorry about the length here.  I have two sons who are 16, 14 who love baseball and soccer and play basketball as well.  I have coached different sports as they grew but the last few in competitive baseball.  They both love to pitch first and foremost.  They have potential.  Fun to watch them improve.  But many bumps in every road.  I try to get all the kids to understand good form (so few really understand the whys of what they need to do - not to overcoach but it isn't rocket science), repeat it and enjoy it so they can have confidence.  Oh yes, the conditioning part.  But it is great.  Memories made have been wonderful.  If they go on, great.  If not, great.
Back to the books!  Good articles...thanks!

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