Episodes
In this episode, we break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! We discuss popular baseball & softball terms as well as keeping players motivated no matter the situation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 10/01/21
In this episode, we break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! We discuss taking coaching like an opportunity instead of a job, turning players into leaders, and what coaches mean to players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 09/24/21
In this episode, we break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! We discuss taking on the title of coach & communicating the lineup card. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 09/17/21
In this episode, we break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! We discuss keeping young players focused and coach/player/parent relationships with the umpires. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 09/10/21
In this episode, let's break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! We discuss the Pre-Game Routine & we address a question from a young player about BP vs. In-Game Hitting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 09/04/21
In this episode, let's break down some popular questions and some topics we think are important to the continual growth of the game! Big Field v Small Field, Keep Kids Playing The Game, Transitioning From 12u-13u. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 08/27/21
This week we discuss...What is a "Top Step" player? And, the mindset of "Do it for the team and not for the applause". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 08/23/21
This week Duke and Steve talk about what to expect the highlights from Cooperstown. Steve lays out the Perfect Tryout and how to execute it. And lastly how to handle those sometimes uncomfortable end-of-the-season conversations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 08/13/21
In this episode, we answer some great questions from our viewers like "When and how do you ask an umpire for help?". "How do you manage your pitches for a 3 or 4-day tourney with limited pitch count?". "What tips or drills should I use to get my players into the correct throeing position?". Thank you for joining us today! We will continue dive deep into topics like: taking on the title of coach, player development, communicating with players and parents, running efficient practices, in-game...
Published 07/09/21
Live Q&A with Coach Duke & Coach Steve. Thank you for joining us today! We will continue to dive deep into topics like taking on the title of coach, player development, communicating with players and parents, running efficient practices, in-game management, keeping your players engaged, having fun, and keeping them playing the game!  We will see you next week – Go out and Dominate the Diamond! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 07/01/21
Dominate The Diamond Episode #5 Overcoming a Slump. Responsibilities during games. Live Q&A  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Published 06/28/21
How do we teach players how to handle adversity? In a game of failure, how do we teach our players to stay positive? Focus on the 7 vs. focus on the 3. “Flush it”. Body language, attitude, picking one another up. Focusing on QAB vs. Batting Average. What causes a slump? 2 Strike Mentality: Approach in 0 strike counts, 1 strike counts, 2 strike counts. Defensive Approach vs. Tough & Competitive. What are the player's fears?. Ask questions & get in their head. Extend it 1 pitch at a...
Published 06/17/21
What creates a Positive Team Culture? How to teach our players what it means to be a good teammate. Team before me, How to pick my teammates up, How to cheer one another on. Expectations for work ethic (sprint on and off the field, maintain eye contact, respect teammates, opponents, coaching staff, umpires, fans). We must teach our players to battle through adversity & be mentally tough. How to incorporate Pitching into team practices? Creating pitching stations-Doing flat ground work...
Published 06/10/21
Running the Perfect Practice: Being Prepared! Creating Practice Plans. Structure - Utilizing Assistant Coaches & Volunteer Parents. Using the Whole Field. Create Stations & Keep the Kids Moving. Have Competitions & Keep it Fun! Expectations of Playing Time: Depends on the Age of the Team. Travel Ball vs. Rec Team. Pool Play vs. Playoffs. We try to bat 12 if possible. Allows for free defensive changes and gets everyone in. Discuss with the players/parents before the season starts,...
Published 06/02/21
The Dreaded Car Ride Home: How to communicate with your players after a bad game? What to talk about? Criticize performance or not? Kids shouldn’t be nervous for the car ride home.  When Should Coaches Start Focusing on 1 position for their players? - Depends on the Age of the player. PO vs. Position Player. Playing multiple positions keeps kids athletic. Helps them to understand the game as a whole, instead of specializing. As they get older – players are more valuable if they’re able to...
Published 05/28/21