Coaching Management 20.13

VOL. XX NO. 13 | 2012 | $7.00

> Alabama’s Strength Program> HS Team Wears Facemasks> NFCA Convention Preview

EXPrESSrouTEA Q&A with Pacific Lutheran coaches

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Head Coach, Washington2009 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1998

Head Coach, Michigan2005 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1985

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CoachesNetwork.com Coaching Management 2012 1

ManagementCoaching

CONTENTS | SOFTBALL EdiTiON 2012 | VOL. XX, NO. 13

2 POSTSEASON2012 BULLETIN BOARDNCAA division i ups high school GPA require-ments … Connecticut pitcher throws all Ks … Michigan’s Carol Hutchins takes her tactics to the corporate world … New Jersey high school team wears facemasks to guard against injuries … Previewing the NFCA Convention.

.

22EXHIBITORS LATEST PRODUCTSGet an advanced look at many of the companies that will be exhibiting their products during the NFCA Convention in Orlando, Fla.

8 COVERSTORY ExPRESS ROUTEHow do you go from 18-22 to an NCAA division iii title in three years? Pacific Lutheran University Head Coach Erin Van Nostrand and her staff reveal their strategies, including how they instilled a winning attitude in their players.

15 STRENGTH&CONDITIONING STAND UP PERFORMANCEAt the University of Alabama, perfect posture is a focus of every strength and conditioning workout. This year, it was also part of what earned the program an NCAA division i championship.

Publisher Mark GoldbergEditorial Dept. Eleanor Frankel, director Abigail Funk, dennis Read, R.J. Anderson, Patrick Bohn, Kristin Maki, Mary Kate Murphy

Art Director Pamela Crawford

Marketing Director Sheryl ShafferProduction Dept. Maria Bise, director Neal Betts, Trish Landsparger Special Projects dave Wohlhueter, Natalie Couch

Business and Editorial Offices20 Eastlake Rd., ithaca, NY 14850 (607) 257-6970, Fax (607) [email protected]

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Advertising Sales Associatediedra Harkenrider (607) 257-6970, ext. 24Ad Materials Coordinator/Sales Mike Townsend (607) 257-6970, ext. 13Circulation Dept. dave dubin, Erin Stewart

Mailing lists for Coaching Management Softball are provided by the Clell Wade Coaches Directory.

The Coaching Management Softball edition is pub lished in November by MAG, Inc. and is distributed free to college and high school coaches in the United States and Canada.

Copyright © 2012 by MAG, Inc. All rights reserved. Text may not be reproduced in any manner, in whole or in part, without the permission of the pub lisher. Un solicited materials will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Coaching Management, P.O. Box 4806, Ithaca, N.Y. 14852. Printed in the U.S.A.

27 PRODUCTS ON DISPLAY 29 MORE PRODUCTS

32 ADVERTISERS DIRECTORY26 COACHES NETWORK

ON THE COVER

Pacific Lutheran All-American pitcher Stacey Hagensen led the Lutes to their first NCAA softball title with an 8-0 record through the playoffs. Our Q&A with the PLU coaching staff begins on page 8.

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

8

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2 Coaching Management 2012 CoachesNetwork.com

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AcAdemics

NCAA to RequireHigher HS GPAs

When it comes to discussions about NCAA Division I academic standards, the Academic Progress Rate (APR) usually generates the most headlines. Flying under the radar are new mandates for high schoolers looking to compete at the D-I level. Beginning in 2016-17, these athletes will be required to post at least a 2.3 GPA in 16 high school core courses. Previously, the minimum was a 2.0.

Student-athletes with high school GPAs between 2.0 and 2.3 will be required to take an academic redshirt year. This means they will be eligible to receive athletically related financial aid and practice with their team during their first year on campus, but won’t be allowed to participate in any competi-tions or travel to away matches. Athletes with GPAs below 2.0 are considered non-qualifiers and cannot receive athletically related financial aid, practice, or com-pete during their freshman year.

In addition, incoming freshmen will have to meet test score requirements based on the NCAA’s sliding scale. For example, a student-athlete with the min-imum 2.3 core-course GPA needs to score a combined 1080 on the SAT math and

verbal sections or 93 on the ACT (the sum of the scores in English, mathemat-ics, reading, and science). An athlete who posts an 820 SAT or 68 ACT, meanwhile, would need a 2.95 GPA. (The full sliding scale can be found at: www.eligibili-tycenter.org under “Resources.”)

All athletes must also complete 10 of their 16 core courses before the first semester of their senior year. Of those 10 courses, seven must be in English, math, or science.

To meet stricter academic demands and better prepare athletes for college, some high schools are experimenting with new programs. In Indianapolis, Warren Central High School has imple-mented an academic support program for athletes that uses grade tracking, study tables, coaches’ efforts, and moti-vational tools.

When the school began tracking athletes’ semester GPAs in the spring of 2009, only 67 percent were at or above a 2.0. Two years later, thanks to the sup-port program, that number had risen to 86 percent.

“It starts at the top with the school leadership putting academics at the fore-front and saying it’s important,” says Jen-nifer Jensen, a math teacher at Warren Central who conducts grade tracking for the program. “And it continues with per-sonal interaction. It is about the student-athletes understanding that we don’t

just care about what they do on the field. We care about them as people.”

School policy at Warren Central requires a student-athlete with a GPA below 2.0 or an F in any class to attend study sessions twice per week. Under the program, players struggling academically are also required to have individual meetings with their coaches. At these one-on-one sessions, the coach outlines expectations and provides a plan for improving the player’s grades.

Another way that Warren Central emphasizes academics to its student-ath-letes is through its Leadership Kickoff event. The main component of the Kick-off centers on announcing the student-athletes’ recent academic achievements. Each squad’s combined GPA from the previous year, as well as the percentage of members in defined GPA ranges, are shared with everyone in attendance. Prizes are awarded to the squads with the highest marks in both small- and large-team divisions.

“The event generates a sense of pride,” Jensen says. “The kids talk about it, and it has made them more excited about being good students. There was one situation where a team’s GPA was very low, and they were basically called out during the kickoff. The next year, that team doubled the number of kids who achieved a GPA above 2.0. This event also makes the coaches more aware of academics, and has increased their support of these initiatives.”

Jensen believes the key to the program is adults emphasizing academics. “As coaches have become more concerned with student achievement, we’ve seen our students’ interest in their academics grow,” she says. “What tutors or coaches say makes a big impact on students. When kids know that you care and are concerned about them, they’ll run through a brick wall for you.”

BULLETIN BOARD

CONTENTS

2 Focus on the classroom

3 Twenty-one up, twenty-one K’s

4 Lessons in leadership

5 Infielders don masks

6 NFCA convention preview

At Warren Central High School (batting, at left), a new academic support program uses grade tracking, study tables, coaches’ efforts, and motivational tools to boost student-athletes’ GPAs.

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Dealing WithPerfection

Managing the in-game pressure and subsequent publicity that comes with a pitcher throwing a perfect game is a unique challenge for any coach. But on Saturday, April 21, Stonington (Conn.) High School Head Coach Ann-Marie Houle found herself dealing with some-thing even more rare.

That day, Stonington pitcher Andrea Chiaradio struck out all 21 batters she faced in a 3-0 win over Norwich Free Academy. Local media reports indicat-ed the feat had occurred just once before in Connecticut high school his-tory.

“I didn’t notice anything unusual until the fourth inning, when I said to our scorekeeper, ‘I think Andrea’s struck out every hitter,’” Houle says. “I knew she was on, but no one realized how good she’d been until then.”

While Chiaradio was cruising, Houle’s work was just beginning. Her

first step was to decide if she should con-tinue to talk to Chiaradio during the game. Earlier, Houle had reminded her pitcher to keep the ball low, but as the game progressed she decided to discuss pitch selection with catcher Julie Royer only, and told her corner infielders to watch out for bunts.

“Andrea’s the kind of pitcher who thrives on being in a rhythm, and I didn’t want to do anything to knock her out of it,” Houle says. “I was worried that if she knew what she was doing, it would weigh on her. So instead of talking to Andrea about it, I did my coaching through Julie.”

Stonington (Conn.) High School pitcher Andrea Chiaradio struck out every batter she faced during a regular season game last season, leading Head Coach Ann-Marie Houle to deal with a host of new expectations, both inside and outside of the program.

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The plan worked. A few innings lat-er, Chiaradio closed the book on her first high school no-hitter, perfect game, and 21-strikeout feat. Houle was ecstatic for Chiaradio, but the game changed the season for both of them.

“I’ve never worked with a player as much as I did with Andrea after her per-fect game,” Houle says. “While it was happening, I was just living the moment, but once it was over, I saw that expecta-tions—both her own and everyone else’s—were raised dramatically.”

To lower that pressure, Houle start-ed her other pitcher in Stonington’s next home game. But in Chiaradio’s next start, on the road against Tourtellotte Memori-al High School, she took a perfect game into the sixth inning before finishing with a one-hitter.

“We figured things would go back to normal after the Tourtellotte game,” Houle says. “But she was nearly perfect again, and in some ways, that’s the worst thing that could have happened. Andrea was disappointed she didn’t throw another perfect game, and I don’t know many pitchers who feel that way follow-ing a one-hitter.

“After the game, I told Andrea she needed to reset her expectations,” Houle continues. “I reminded her that there was a defense behind her that needed to make plays and an offense that needed to score runs. She couldn’t do it on her own, and she shouldn’t try to.”

While Houle was working hard to keep Chiaradio focused on the bigger picture, the local media was doing the opposite. “We lost to a team later in the year and one story’s headline was, ‘So-and-so beats Chiaradio,’” Houle says. “That was unfair to everyone, because that team beat Stonington, not just Andrea. So I emphasized to the team that no one player on the team was bet-ter than anyone else and that we couldn’t let the media dictate how we did things.”

She also talked to the media about its coverage. “Some of them were trying to stir the pot by pitting Andrea and our other starter against each other,” Houle says. “I told them I appreciated the cov-erage, but that wasn’t how things were.”

The 21-strikeout game was one highlight in a season that saw Stoning-

ton finish 21-5 and advance to the state quarterfinals. Chiaradio went 12-5 and earned first-team all-conference honors. The perfect game also brought about increased attention from college recruit-ers, but Houle says Chiaradio, now a senior, is still deciding where she wants to attend school.

Looking back, Houle views every-thing that happened as a learning expe-rience. “When you read about these things occurring, you never think it will happen to one of your players,” she says. “But it did happen to one of mine, and I couldn’t be prouder of the way we all handled it.”

Leadership

Corporate Coaching

Carol Hutchins, Head Coach at the University of Michigan, has spent her career in the world of sports, but her reputation for success has recently been climbing the corporate ladder. As part of a six-day program in June, high-level business executives will come to Hutchins’s office—Alumni Field at the Wilpon Baseball and Softball Complex—to learn a thing or two about leadership from the winningest coach in Wolverine history.

The program, “Leaders and Best: Creating a Winning Culture,” is hosted by the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business Executive Education

program and the athletics department, and it will run from June 9-14, 2013. In addition to Hutchins, Head Football Coach Brady Hoke, Men’s Basketball Coach John Beilein, and Athletic Director Dave Brandon, as well as faculty mem-bers, will share their insights on what it takes to be an effective leader. They will conduct sessions on topics such as resil-ience, the relationship between business and sports, teaching while leading, the

“I’m going to put them in groups and each group has to come up with their own definition of a good team and of a good teammate. Then I’m going to take them onto the softball field and put those definitions into action ... If what they do doesn’t match up with what they say, I’ll call them out on it.” CAROL HUTCHINSHead Coach, University of Michigan

With over 1,250 wins on her resume, University of Michigan Head Coach Carol Hutchins will try to teach her tactics to business leaders next June, when she will be an instructor in UM’s Executive Education program.

BULLETIN BOARD


Circle No. 102

building blocks of leadership, and leav-ing a leadership legacy.

For her presentation, Hutchins will emphasize the importance of teamwork. “Business is very competitive, just like sports are. The way to achieve the best from an organization is to get everybody to work and function as one unit and most importantly be about your group’s mission,” she explains. “Our mission at Michigan softball is to win games, and that comes first and foremost. Our ath-letes learn to put the team above them-selves and realize that they are part of something bigger. And those are the val-ues the business leaders will learn on my softball field when they come out.”

To impart her lessons, Hutchins will literally place the business executives on the turf. “I’m going to put them in groups and each group has to come up with their own definition of a good team and of a good teammate,” she says. “Then I’m going to take them onto the softball field and put those defini-tions into action. The executives will be

put into game-type situations and have to figure out how to be successful based on what they think teamwork means. If what they do doesn’t match up with what they say, I’ll call them out on it.

“I know what the standards are for Michigan softball,” Hutchins continues. “Our successful teams find solutions to problems together. They are loyal to each other, yet they hold each other accountable. Everyone is expected to know their role and do their part accord-ingly. So we’ll see how these business leaders’ standards measure up.”

Hutchins became the head coach at Michigan in 1985 and hasn’t had a losing season yet. In that time, the NFCA Hall of Fame coach has won a national champi-onship, 15 Big Ten regular season titles, 14 NCAA Regional crowns, and eight Big Ten tournament championships, while recording over 1,250 wins.

Although her role in the program is to teach others, she knows that a good leader is never done learning and hopes to gain from the experience herself. “I’m

honored to be involved in something like this, but working with business leaders from around the world is pretty daunt-ing,” Hutchins says. “All I can teach is what I know. Hopefully the executives find it applicable and take something from it.

“I think that anytime you have a challenge in front of you and have to rise to the occasion, it’s a pretty empow-ering experience,” she continues. “I view this experience to be exactly that—a challenge for myself. And I hope to rise to the occasion.”

Player Safety

Behind the Mask In high school sports, injuries often

prompt discussion on increased safety precautions. But after Ashley Pais, a for-mer pitcher at Elmwood Park (N.J.) Memorial High School, broke every bone on the left side of her face when she was struck by a batted ball during a travel

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league game in July of 2011, the Elm-wood Park Board of Education did more than talk about the need for safety. In response to Pais’s injury, the board man-dated that every infielder in the district wear a protective facemask during games.

The mask fits over the player’s head using an adjustable strap. A metal bar roughly an inch wide covers the player’s forehead, and the lower half of the mask is divided into two sections by thin metal bars—one crosses the player’s face hori-zontally at nose level and another runs along the player’s jaw line, leading to the chin. Those two bars are connected in the middle by a short vertical bar. None of the open areas are large enough for a softball to fit through.

“We all believe that player safety comes first in high school sports, and softball has a unique set of risks,” says Elmwood Park Athletic Director Michael Oppido, who was the athletic director at nearby Wood-Ridge (N.J.) High School last year. “If a batter shows bunt and the third basemen comes charging in, she might be only 10 to 15 feet away if the batter instead slaps a ball down the line. At that distance, it’s going to be incredi-bly difficult for the fielder to react with her glove in time to catch the ball.”

Players expressed some initial resis-tance to the facemasks. “I think they’re kind of ugly,” Crusaders’ second base-man Caitlin Gilmore told CBS 2 New York. “So I think that a lot of girls on the team didn’t really want to wear them.”

However, Oppido says that Head Coach Jillian Torrento spoke to the team

about the masks, and the squad bought into the idea fairly quickly. “The girls have the utmost respect for Coach Tor-rento,” he says. “And having an experi-enced coach the players like telling them how important it is to wear these for safety reasons is going to help.”

Parents got on board as well. “When it comes to keeping their children safe, I think a lot of parents view a move like this as a no-brainer,” Oppido says. “The injury that spurned this change was bad enough. None of us wants to think about what could have happened if a player were struck in the temple.”

Overall, Elmwood Park players didn’t miss a beat in their new headgear, finishing the season 13-5, the best record in school history. “They took part in a tournament my former school hosted last year, and I was really impressed with their play,” Oppido says. “The facemasks didn’t seem to affect them at all.”

NFCA News

Convention Preview

The nation’s coaches are set to con-verge in Orlando, Fla., from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 for the 2012 NFCA National Con-vention. The event will offer several opportunities for coaches to develop all aspects of their coaching, both on and off the field.

The first seminar of the convention takes place on the morning of the 28th, when Cindy Bristow, former Head Coach at New Mexico State University and Wichita State University, will talk about how to get the most from your pitching staff. Highlights on Thursday include Alyson Habetz, Associate Head Coach at

the University of Alabama, discussing outfield play and Sue Enquist, former Head Coach at UCLA, leading the third annual Mentoring Session, a roundtable discussion on a variety of coaching topics.

Friday’s offerings will feature a pair of sessions devoted to off-the-field topics. Robyn Odegaard, PhD, an author and national consultant, will host a discussion called “Stop the Drama: The Ultimate Guide to Female Teams,” and Tim Elmore, Founder and President of Growing Leaders, will deliver a presentation titled “The New Wave: Understanding and Connecting with Generation iY Athletes.” Friday’s other seminars include Lizzy Lemire, Assistant Coach at the University of Notre Dame, discussing “The Musts of Hitting,” and Brian Kolze, Head Coach at the University of the Pacific, leading “Offensive Strategies vs. The Off-Speed Pitch.”

On Saturday, following the NFCA Coaching Staff of the Year Brunch, a series of roundtable discussions will take place. Steve Wammer, Head Coach at Northland College, will lead a talk on innovative defensive positioning, while Annie Smith, Head Coach at Georgia Southern University, will focus on making the move from assistant to head coach. Additional roundtable topics will include recruiting standards, pitching mechanics, and men coaching women.

Later in the afternoon, there will be a series of drills clinics. Erin Van Nostrand, Head Coach at Pacific Lutheran University, will discuss baserunning; Beth Torina, Head Coach at Louisiana State University, will cover pitching; and George Wares, Head Coach at Central College (Iowa), will delve into improving hitting.

Two other Saturday highlights are “The Five C’s of a Mental-Game Warrior,” led by Jen Croneberger, Head Coach at Ursinus College; and “Turning the Double Play,” hosted by Blake Miller, Assistant Coach at the University of Oregon. The day’s offerings will close with Brandon Marcello, Director of Sports Performance at Stanford University, delivering a talk called, “Why Injuries Are On the Rise and What We Can Do About It.”

There will also be three National Fastpitch Coaches College courses offered before and after the official convention dates. “Coaching Dynamic Team Practices,” will occur prior to the start of the convention. And post-event classes include “Explosive Team Offense & Strategy” and “The Art of Championship Coaching.”

In response to a player injury, all infielders on the Elmwood Park (N.J.) Memorial High School squad wore facemasks last spring. The team finished the year with its best record in school history.

BULLETIN BOARD

“The girls have the utmost respect for Coach Torrento. And having an experienced coach the players like telling them how impor-tant it is to wear these for safety reasons is going to help.”MICHAEL OPPIDOAthletic Director, Elmwood Park (N.J.) Memorial High School

Competing in team sports requires dedication to teamwork, on and off the

field. To work together, all team members must come to practices and

competitions prepared to succeed. Choosing the right foods and fluids

to prepare for competition and to provide proper energy during and after

competition can make all the difference. No matter the sport, getting the

sports nutrition advantage puts the team one step closer to the “W.”

Fluids: Hydration is KeyWater is an important part of the working body, making up 60 to 65 percent of total body weight. • If athletes lose too much fluid in sweat without replacing what they’ve

lost in both fluids and important electrolytes (like sodium and chloride),

they risk becoming dehydrated.

• Dehydration can diminish energy and impair performance. Even a

2-percent loss of body weight through sweat (i.e. 3 1/2 pounds for a

180-pound player) can put athletes at a disadvantage.

HoW to combat deHydration Athletes, especially those who train in hot and humid weather conditions or

in hot gyms or training facilities, run a risk of dehydration. The risk becomes

greater the longer an athlete practices or plays at one time, or when there is

more than one competition in a day, such as a weekend basketball or tennis

tournament, or two-a-day workouts. Dehydration can be prevented--here’s how:

• stay well hydrated all day. Start with extra fluids like milk and juice at

breakfast. Then, drink fluids throughout the day, using water bottles, water

fountains and cafeteria beverages as triggers for drinking. Soup and some

water rich foods (like yogurt, watermelon, grapes and tomatoes) can also

contribute to proper daily hydration.

• Have a pre-game plan and hydrate 2 to 3 hours before practices and games. Athletes should aim for at least 16 ounces (2 cups) of fluid at this

time and an additional 8 ounces (1 cup) 10 to 20 minutes prior to playing.

• drink during workouts or games. Sports drinks, like Gatorade, can help

ward off dehydration and muscle cramps because they help replenish both

fluid and electrolytes lost in sweat. Encourage sports drinks when workouts

last an hour or longer, especially for heavy sweaters. Sports chews or gels

can add an extra “energy boost” during intense activity.

• Prioritize post-practice hydration. Athletes should weigh themselves

before and after activity and consume enough ounces of water, sports

drinks or other fluids to replace what they’ve lost.

Foods: Pre-WorKout FuelAthletes should fuel their bodies 3 to 4 hours before practices and games

with a high-carbohydrate meal or snack (see “Pre-Workout Meal Ideas”).

This will give the body enough energy to make it through the workout.

to do this:• team leaders can organize pre-game meals for the whole team

3 to 4 hours before competition, including high-energy foods like breads,

bagels, cereals, pasta, potatoes, rice, fruits, fruit juices and vegetables—

as well as lean sources of protein like chicken breast, turkey, lean deli

meats, fish and yogurt. For quick energy, athletes should fill 2/3 of their

plates with high carbohydrate options. Drink plenty of fluids with the meal

to optimize hydration.

• Players should eat foods they know work well for them pre-exercise. Trying a variety of foods before workouts can help determine the best

combinations for pre-game meals.

• athletes should not be afraid to salt food because they can lose lots of sodium through sweating—especially if they’re heavy crampers.

Sometimes, that sodium loss can be the cause of cramping.

Pre-WorKout meal ideas

recovery Foods: Post-WorKout FuelTo maximize the body’s ability to refuel muscles after every workout, athletes

should consume a “post-workout snack” as soon as possible after practice

or games. This helps restock the muscle energy used in practices quickly.

tips for recovery:• Have snacks like trail mix, sports chews and bars, cereal mixed with

peanuts and raisins, chocolate milk or peanut butter and crackers

within reach after workouts.

• Encourage athletes to eat a meal within 1-2 hours after workouts to

continue muscle energy recovery.

locKer or bacKPacK snacKsMany athletes run from school directly to practices, with limited time to get

energy to working muscles before hitting the field or court. They often miss

out on a high-energy snack to help boost energy for performance. To combat

this, keeping easy-to-grab snacks in the locker or in the backpack is a must.

Quick locker or backpack snacks:• Granola bars, cereal bars and sports bars

• Energy chews

• Trail mix

• Dry cereal and pretzels

• Pressed fruit or fruit rolls

• Juice boxes

There is research that supports that prioritizing nutrition on a daily basis

can potentially enhance success for athletes. Make sports nutrition a priority

for your teams and you’ll see the difference.

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NUTRITION fOR ThE TEam SPORT aThlETESusan Kundrat, MS, RD, CSSD, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Nutritional Sciences Program Director

Competing in team sports requires dedication to teamwork, on and off the

field. To work together, all team members must come to practices and

competitions prepared to succeed. Choosing the right foods and fluids

to prepare for competition and to provide proper energy during and after

competition can make all the difference. No matter the sport, getting the

sports nutrition advantage puts the team one step closer to the “W.”

Fluids: Hydration is KeyWater is an important part of the working body, making up 60 to 65 percent of total body weight. • If athletes lose too much fluid in sweat without replacing what they’ve

lost in both fluids and important electrolytes (like sodium and chloride),

they risk becoming dehydrated.

• Dehydration can diminish energy and impair performance. Even a

2-percent loss of body weight through sweat (i.e. 3 1/2 pounds for a

180-pound player) can put athletes at a disadvantage.

HoW to combat deHydration Athletes, especially those who train in hot and humid weather conditions or

in hot gyms or training facilities, run a risk of dehydration. The risk becomes

greater the longer an athlete practices or plays at one time, or when there is

more than one competition in a day, such as a weekend basketball or tennis

tournament, or two-a-day workouts. Dehydration can be prevented--here’s how:

• stay well hydrated all day. Start with extra fluids like milk and juice at

breakfast. Then, drink fluids throughout the day, using water bottles, water

fountains and cafeteria beverages as triggers for drinking. Soup and some

water rich foods (like yogurt, watermelon, grapes and tomatoes) can also

contribute to proper daily hydration.

• Have a pre-game plan and hydrate 2 to 3 hours before practices and games. Athletes should aim for at least 16 ounces (2 cups) of fluid at this

time and an additional 8 ounces (1 cup) 10 to 20 minutes prior to playing.

• drink during workouts or games. Sports drinks, like Gatorade, can help

ward off dehydration and muscle cramps because they help replenish both

fluid and electrolytes lost in sweat. Encourage sports drinks when workouts

last an hour or longer, especially for heavy sweaters. Sports chews or gels

can add an extra “energy boost” during intense activity.

• Prioritize post-practice hydration. Athletes should weigh themselves

before and after activity and consume enough ounces of water, sports

drinks or other fluids to replace what they’ve lost.

Foods: Pre-WorKout FuelAthletes should fuel their bodies 3 to 4 hours before practices and games

with a high-carbohydrate meal or snack (see “Pre-Workout Meal Ideas”).

This will give the body enough energy to make it through the workout.

to do this:• team leaders can organize pre-game meals for the whole team

3 to 4 hours before competition, including high-energy foods like breads,

bagels, cereals, pasta, potatoes, rice, fruits, fruit juices and vegetables—

as well as lean sources of protein like chicken breast, turkey, lean deli

meats, fish and yogurt. For quick energy, athletes should fill 2/3 of their

plates with high carbohydrate options. Drink plenty of fluids with the meal

to optimize hydration.

• Players should eat foods they know work well for them pre-exercise. Trying a variety of foods before workouts can help determine the best

combinations for pre-game meals.

• athletes should not be afraid to salt food because they can lose lots of sodium through sweating—especially if they’re heavy crampers.

Sometimes, that sodium loss can be the cause of cramping.

Pre-WorKout meal ideas

recovery Foods: Post-WorKout FuelTo maximize the body’s ability to refuel muscles after every workout, athletes

should consume a “post-workout snack” as soon as possible after practice

or games. This helps restock the muscle energy used in practices quickly.

tips for recovery:• Have snacks like trail mix, sports chews and bars, cereal mixed with

peanuts and raisins, chocolate milk or peanut butter and crackers

within reach after workouts.

• Encourage athletes to eat a meal within 1-2 hours after workouts to

continue muscle energy recovery.

locKer or bacKPacK snacKsMany athletes run from school directly to practices, with limited time to get

energy to working muscles before hitting the field or court. They often miss

out on a high-energy snack to help boost energy for performance. To combat

this, keeping easy-to-grab snacks in the locker or in the backpack is a must.

Quick locker or backpack snacks:• Granola bars, cereal bars and sports bars

• Energy chews

• Trail mix

• Dry cereal and pretzels

• Pressed fruit or fruit rolls

• Juice boxes

There is research that supports that prioritizing nutrition on a daily basis

can potentially enhance success for athletes. Make sports nutrition a priority

for your teams and you’ll see the difference.

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ExprEss routeQ&A With NFCA DivisioN iii CoAChiNg stAFF oF the yeAr | pAcific luthErAn univErsity

COVER STORY


During Erin Van Nostrand’s first season as Head Coach at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) in 2009, the Lutes went 18-22 and finished fourth in the Northwest Confer-

ence. That seems like a distant memory to a program that won the 2012 NCAA Division III national cham-pionship, compiling a 45-11 record along the way.

Following a 2011 season in which they were denied a bid into the NCAA tournament, despite finishing second in their conference and winning 31 games, the Lutes were out for revenge and sought the toughest competition in the country for 2012. At first, this revenge looked unattainable as PLU dropped four of its initial six games. The team quickly rebounded to win 19 of its next 21 contests, recording eight shutouts along the way. PLU took a 12-game winning streak into the postseason and won the Northwest Conference tournament title, beating defending national champion Linfield College.

The Lutes enjoyed a perfect 8-0 run through the Division III playoffs, then faced a familiar opponent in Linfield in the title game. The two squads had already met eight times that season, with PLU win-ning five of those contests. The Lutes pulled out a 3-0 victory to claim the trophy.

Van Nostrand was aided through the champion-ship season by Associate Head Coach Greg Seeley, Assistant Coach Tiffany McVay, Assistant Coach Dena Harkovitch, and Assistant Coach Dena Slye. Together, they were named the NFCA 2012 NCAA Division III Coaching Staff of the Year. In this four-part interview, each of the coaches currently on staff (Slye has since become a program developer for Dream Team Soft-ball Camps) talks about their coaching styles, their roles, and how they pulled everything together to bring PLU its first NCAA championship in softball.

Erin Van Nostrand, Head CoachBefore coming to Tacoma, Wash., in 2009, Van Nostrand spent four successful years as head coach at Pine Manor College in Chestnut Hill, Mass., tying the school record for wins in a season, and leading the squad to a Great Northeast Athletic Conference championship game appearance. Van Nostrand’s coaching career began at her alma mater, Freeport (N.Y.) High School, where she inherited a 0-22 team and took it to a conference championship within two years. The Long Island native was the starting shortstop for three years at Keene State College in New Hampshire, where she helped lead the squad to an NCAA Division III Regional Championship berth.

ExprEss route

Far left: Stacey Hagensen pitched every inning at the regional and national tournaments in PLU’s run to the 2012 NCAA Division III championship.

Top: Coaches Tiffany McVay, Erin Van Nostrand, Greg Seeley, and Dena Harkovitch (left to right) pose with their Northwest Conference trophy.

Bottom: Left fielder Montessa Califano was one of four Lutes to be chosen for the all-tournament team.

Far left: Stacey Hagensen pitched every inning at the regional and national tournaments in PLU’s run to the 2012 NCAA Division III championship.

Top: Coaches Tiffany McVay, Erin Van Nostrand, Greg Seeley, and Dena Harkovitch (left to right) pose with their Northwest Conference trophy.

Bottom: Left fielder Montessa Califano was one of four Lutes to be chosen for the all-tournament team.


COVER STORY

CM: You’ve taken three programs with losing records and made them winners. What are the specific things you do to turn a team around?

Van Nostrand: A lot of times with a team that isn’t used to winning, it’s about the mentality. Obviously, there needs to be some talent and there are skills that need improving. But it’s really about teaching your players how to win—helping them find that inner drive and showing them how to use it. If you can change the mentality, you’re headed in the right direction.

What do you think made the 2012 PLU team so successful?

I see three separate factors. First of all, we had some really good players. All-American

pitcher Stacey Hagensen is the type of athlete every team needs—a kid who everyone is going to run through a wall for. Also, the juniors were part of the first recruiting class we brought in. I told them when we recruited them, “We’re bringing you in to win a national championship.” That expectation was set from the moment they arrived on campus and they were eager to fulfill it. Every time they stepped foot on the field they expected to win.

Third, I think we played with a chip on our shoulders because we were 31-13 the year before and finished second in our conference, but we didn’t make it into the NCAA tournament. We were told it was because our schedule wasn’t difficult enough, so last season, we traveled to Texas and Hawai’i and played ridiculously talented teams. We were going to prove that we belonged with the elite teams.

What do you look for in the players you recruit?

I don’t play one style of softball so I’m looking for complete players. Sure, we want some kids who can hit for average and some who can drive the ball long. But I really want that very athletic kid who can hit for average, run the bases, play defense, and do any of the things we may ask her to do.

We want our team to be able to win in a multitude of ways on any given day. So we are not interested in players who do one

thing exceptionally well, but rather those who do a lot of things really well.

Do you follow the approach of your softball coach at Keene State, Dr. Charlie Beach, who focuses on kinesiology in his coaching?

I do take a lot of what Charlie does. I feel being a great athlete is about being able to instantaneously perform an action that you may never have done before. For example, my players grow up hitting a ball on a tee or off a pitching machine. However, when you’re hitting a stagnant object, your body isn’t really learning anything. You’re not creating any movement patterns—you’re just creating muscle memory.

In a game, every pitch is different, and

every swing should be different. So we have the girls hit off of different kids during soft-toss. Some kids soft-toss fast, some kids soft-toss slow, and some of our pitchers soft-toss with this funky, crazy backspin. The batter’s rhythm and timing always need to adjust to the pitcher, whether she throws hard or has a changeup or a really good curveball. Through varying the soft tosses, we force our hitters to make adjustments on the fly so they can do the same in a game based on what the pitcher is throwing.

Why did you decide to come to PLU after living on the East Coast your entire life?

I felt like I had gotten to a point where I had done as much as I could at Pine Manor. When you’re at a small women’s college with only 350 students, there’s a limit to how good you can get. Maybe we could have gotten into the NCAA tournament and won a game or two, but I wanted more than that.

When I heard what PLU was all about, I decided to apply, never thinking I was going to get an opportunity. But then I got an interview and came out and fell in love with the school.

How did you feel about playing conference rival Linfield College in the national championship game after already playing them multiple times that season?

It’s the way it was supposed to be, and I think that’s how our team felt. Linfield has always been the standard. They were the defending national champions and some of their seniors who graduated in 2011 were maybe the best players who have ever played Division III softball. Whoever was going to win the national championship was going to have to go through Linfield. We didn’t want it to be any other way.

How did the team handle sharing a chartered plane ride from Virginia back to Washington with Linfield after defeating them in the title game?

I said to my girls, “We are going to show them respect, and we’re going to behave the way we would want to be treated if it was us

on the other side.” And we did. The Linfield players sat in the back of the plane and we sat in the front. The girls did homework and slept and we went about our daily business. It was somewhat unfortunate because we should have been able to celebrate the whole ride home and Linfield shouldn’t have had to look at us the whole time. But it was worse for them than it was for us, in my opinion.

You got married the same week as the national championship. How did you handle the crazy work-life balance that must have brought?

I tend to be a bit “Nancy Negative,” and when we realized the wedding was the same week as the championships I told my partner, “Don’t worry about it. We’re not going to make it.” When we won the conference tournament I said, “Come on, we’re going to the hardest region in the country. We’re not going to make it.” When we advanced to the championship round I simply picked up my wedding dress when we flew back to PLU and tried to keep everything in focus.

Walking through the airport on our way to Virginia, I had the 20 girls and all of the things we needed to play softball, plus everything I needed for my wedding, including my wedding dress. It was kind of comical but I think it relaxed the girls. There

“I wanTEd mY plaYERS TO TakE mY COmpETITIVEnESS and uSE IT TO ThEIR bEST adVanTagE, buT I COuldn’T fORCE mY waY Of dOIng ThIngS OnTO ThEm.”

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we were walking through Sea-Tac Airport and people are looking at us like, “They look like a college softball team, so why is she carrying a wedding dress?”

After we won, our athletic director wanted me to come back for the celebration. So I ended up flying back with the team and we had the celebration and then I flew the red-eye to Boston for the wedding. It was crazy, but it was the best week of my life.

Although you had an incredibly successful season, were there any challenges along the way?

Yeah, the loud-mouthed New Yorker who was coaching in Tacoma, Washington. Being from New York, I say how I feel and can be very intense. Here, I had to change my style.

I wanted my players to take my competitiveness and use it to their best advantage, but I couldn’t force my way of doing things onto them. I had some bumps along the way, and I didn’t always get along with some of the girls in the past. But eventually we got to a place where the girls understood my intensity, respected my

intensity, and learned how to use their own intensity. Ultimately, we were able to achieve something pretty special with it.

Is there a balance you try to strike between pushing your players and being too tough?

I can still be a jerk sometimes. I had to learn that I don’t have to be tough on them all the time. For example, after games, I don’t say anything. The girls do three “ups” and three “downs”—they tell us about three things we did well and three things we need to do better—and then the coaching staff addresses those the next day. The girls know what they did wrong. I don’t need to be Captain Obvious and tell them.

I also had to let go of the fact that they’re silly, they’re crazy, and that’s how they need to be. We play ultimate Frisbee before games because it relaxes them. At first I thought, “You guys really need to do this?” But now I realize, yeah, they do. The girls sing and dance and act silly, because that’s what they need to do. It’s been difficult learning what’s important and what’s not, and when it’s okay to give up control.

What are your career goals?I don’t know, honestly. We won a national

championship, so what do you do after that? I’m really focused on this year and this group of seniors—giving them the best ending we can possibly give them. We’ll just see what happens after that. I preach to my kids to take things day-by-day and game-by-game and see what comes. That’s kind of how I live my life, too. So for now, I don’t know.

Greg Seeley, Associate Head CoachAlthough this is Seeley’s first coaching position at the college level, he was an active coach in the Tacoma, Wash., high school, club, and youth softball scenes for many years. At PLU, his duties include overseeing hitting, outfield, and first base, and calling pitches during games. As hitting coach, he helped the 2012 squad set new team records for runs scored, RBIs, and total bases. He is very involved at the administrative level, coordinating recruiting and camps. A former football player at the University of Washington, he also owns a law practice.


COVER STORY


COVER STORY

CM: How do you and Coach Van Nostrand work together?

Seeley: We have different coaching styles but I think we mesh well because there are certain players that respond to the way she coaches and others that respond to the way I coach. I’m an optimist and I’m always looking at the positive side. I motivate with positive reinforcement, and I have a calm, relaxed coaching style. Erin is really intense, and she’s very knowledgeable about the game. We have been able to identify the strengths that each of us have and make sure that we are able to motivate the players with our varying coaching styles.

There are also ways in which we are similar. We both have very high standards, and we expect the players to meet those standards. We’re both very honest with the players. We tell them exactly where they stand and what they need to do.

How has your experience as a college football player affected you as a softball coach?

I learned so much from my football coaches in college that I now use as a softball coach, especially how they motivated their players and maintained high standards. Playing football on the college level also taught me how to balance tough athletic

and academic demands, and I share that with our players. You also own a law practice and used to be the offensive coordinator for the football team at Redmond (Wash.) High School. How did you juggle so many activities?

I didn’t, and that’s why I had to cut football out. During the fall, I had softball practice four days a week and football six days a week. I had been putting more and more time into softball, and when I factored in my law practice, I wasn’t really able to maintain a home life. It was a very difficult decision for me to give up coaching football because I’d been doing it for 14 years, and I loved it. But softball coaching is my passion so I made the decision to stick with that.

What are your memories of the championship game?

It was the culmination of a great run through the tournament. We went 8-0 against some quality opponents. The fact that we beat Linfield with a shutout was incredibly special. They have set the bar very high in our conference and in Division III overall.

Tiffany McVay, Assistant CoachTiffany McVay came to PLU in 2009 after serving as an assistant at Virginia Tech where she helped lead the Hokies to two NCAA Division I tournament appearances, including a trip to the 2008 Women’s College World Series, and coached All-American pitcher Angela Tincher. She also has experience as a professional pitching coach for teams in Virginia, North Carolina, and Tennessee. McVay was a member of East Tennessee State University’s inaugural softball team and was a three-time team MVP.

CM: How did you get involved with PLU softball?

McVay: We moved here from Virginia for my husband’s work. Erin and Greg found out I was in the area and they gave me a call.

Stacey Hagensen isn’t the first All-American pitcher that you’ve coached. What do you think makes an outstanding pitcher?

All-American pitchers have backbones. They’re confident and can keep their composure throughout the toughest situations. They are highly talented individuals who push themselves without being asked. They have an attitude that trumps all others, and they know in their heart they’re the best and will do what it takes to win.

How did you help Hagensen and the rest of the pitchers improve this season?

My first year at PLU was dedicated to making sure all the girls understood

what they were being asked to do. In my opinion, there are too many robot pitchers. We worked on spins, and focused on perfection at every single practice for the last two years.

The players took it from there. I can put pitching into words, demonstrate, and push them through repetition but it is up to the individuals to work hard and make it happen.

Hagensen pitched every inning of the NCAA tournament. How do you keep your pitchers from getting fatigued?

You don’t. If a pitcher throws every inning of every high-pressured game, she will get fatigued. You can’t get around that. We iced Stacey’s arm when we needed to and tried to keep winning so we didn’t have to play any extra games. But at the end of a long postseason run, your heart becomes bigger than the pain.

How did your experience at ETSU as a three-time team MVP influence your approach to coaching?

I know what it’s like to be in high-pressure situations and throw every inning with nothing left in the tank. I learned how to mentally push through, make sense of

the challenge in front of me, and do the best I could. That carries over to how I coach.

How do you prepare your pitchers mentally for big-game situations?

We start mentally preparing at the first practice in the fall by setting high expectations. We always tell our pitchers to expect to win every time they step on the field. When the big games come around, we make things happen one pitch at a time.

What are your memories of the title game?

Watching the final game was amazing! There were many tears of joy and I was just so proud of the progress and the final push all the girls made together. To be able to

“AfTER gAmES, I dOn’T SAY AnYThIng. ThE gIRlS dO ThREE ‘upS’ And ThREE ‘dOwnS’—ThEY TEll uS AbOuT ThREE ThIngS wE dId wEll And ThREE ThIngS wE nEEd TO dO bETTER. ThEn [wE] AddRESS ThOSE ThIngS ThE nExT dAY.”


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say you were part of a coaching staff that won a national championship is a great accomplishment.

Dena Harkovitch, Assistant Coach Dena Harkovitch played on the PLU softball team from 2007-2010. Though her career was shortened by a hip injury, and she only

played one game in her last two seasons, she was voted Most Inspirational Player all four years.

CM: What made you want to stay with PLU softball after you graduated?

Harkovitch: During my last two seasons, I was sidelined with an injury, so I got to take on a coaching role. When I graduated, Erin asked me if I wanted to stay on as part of the coaching staff. Since PLU softball has been a big part of my life, I knew I would love to help out.

What are your responsibilities as Assistant Coach?

I’ve had multiple duties—everything from getting the field ready for a game to helping to run practices. When we are on the road, I get things organized, help with laundry, or assist the girls with homework. I

also try to serve as a mentor to the girls since some of them were my teammates and I’m closer to them in age than the other coaches on staff.

How do you instill the values of hard work and positive thinking into PLU players?

Mostly, I use my experiences as an athlete since I’m not that far removed from it. I can easily talk to the girls about the excitement and stresses of playing. I can also relate to

those team members who are not playing a lot. Because I was injured, I know what that feels like. I talk to them about how to overcome the challenge and understand their role on the team. When you’re on a team, you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

What is your advice to injured players? Sometimes players are stubbornand

don’t want to take care of an injury. When that happens, I talk about my own experience. I learned that if you don’t take care of an injury, it can get worse. I tell them to take the extra time to ensure that a simple injury doesn’t turn into something bigger that could sideline them for a season or two. I try to look out for the girls to make sure they don’t have to go through the same thing I did. CM

COVER STORY

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STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

Most people know University of Ala-bama softball for its big bats, speed on the bases, and continuous winning sea-sons. While our lifting program helps produce those monster hits and our con-ditioning program keeps the players’ feet churning, what a lot of people don’t know is that our focus on posture is also a major contributor to the team’s suc-cess.

Softball is about power and speed through precise movements, but if the body cannot maintain good posture throughout those movements, power and speed suffer. If a batter has some defi-ciencies in her posture, she will not get full force behind her swing. If a pitcher has poor posture, her pitches will not be as strong. Gray Cook said it best in his book Athletic Body in Balance: “Most athletes work around energy leaks instead of through them.”

That message has stuck with me, as well as one from my mom, who always

At the University of Alabama, perfect posture is a focus of every strength and conditioning workout.

This year, it was part of what earned the program a national championship.

By Michelle Martin Diltz

STand up performance

The Crimson Tide poses with its NCAA Division I trophy after winning the title game in June.


reminded me to stand up straight when I was growing up. At 5-foot-9, I used to slump in order to be the same height as my friends.

Then, I started noticing a trend at Ala-bama. Freshmen were arriving with bad posture just like I used to have. The problem

was highlighted about five years ago at an off-season training session run by Head Coach Pat Murphy. The players lined up from freshmen to seniors to introduce themselves, and the freshmen were standing slumped over, looking scared and uncom-fortable, while the seniors were standing tall, looking confident and proud.

Although I had never worked directly on the older players’ posture, I realized that by focusing on coaching proper form and tech-nique, using the right coaching cues, and even role modeling good posture myself the

players had improved in this area. Since that day, I have done a lot of research on the topic, and I now combine traditional strength and power exercises with Pilates and yoga philosophies to improve posture.

While the team’s focus on posture trans-lates to great results on the field, it also gives

our athletes better body awareness, confi-dence, and a certain swagger. It creates a “look good, feel good, play good” mentality, and our players demonstrate that when they walk into the batter’s box or pitching circle. In this article, I share some of our team’s off-season strength and conditioning pro-gram and explain how I integrate a focus on good posture into every workout.

Defining postureBad posture can be influenced by a lot of

things, including genetics, hand dominance,

past and current injuries, illness, emotional stresses, sitting at a computer, texting, driv-ing, wearing a backpack, and playing a sport. If you think of a college athlete, almost all of these influences are present, so it makes sense that we see a lot of players coming into the weightroom with poor posture.

In general terms, bad posture equals bad body alignment. Poor alignment means that stabilizing muscles are stretched, which weakens them while putting other muscles under heavier stress. When muscles are under heavy stress for a length of time, mis-use results, and injury can occur.


In general terms, bad posture equals bad body alignment. Poor alignment means that stabilizing muscles are stretched, which weakens them while putting other muscles under heavier stress.

MICHELLE MARTIN DILTZ is an Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach at the University of Alabama, where she is responsible for training the softball team. She can be reached at: [email protected].

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The most common type of bad posture seen in athletes is kyphosis-lordosis (KL). KL posture is present when the head thrusts forward, upper back is rounded, shoulder blades press out from the ribcage as if they were wings, thumbs rotate toward the poste-rior, pelvis is anteriorly rotated, and the pubic bone is posteriorly rotated. Athletes with KL usually have tight low backs and hip flexors and weak abdominals and gluteals. These unbalanced weak links in a softball player’s body translate to inefficiencies in movement and over time, create energy leaks or overuse injuries that can sideline or end a career.

Good posture is defined as head in neu-tral position, shoulder blades back and down the thorax, spine with natural curva-ture, palms facing the body with thumbs anteriorly rotated, pelvis in neutral, pubic bone in line with the pelvis, and knees straight ahead. Any force is distributed even-ly, muscles are balanced and relaxed, move-ment patterns are normal, and joints are open and loose with the core stable to allow energy (power) to flow through the body unhindered.

Posture is usually thought about just in context of the spine, but there is a lot more

to it. When I talk about posture in the weightroom, I am referring to the “girdle of strength,” core, hips, shoulders, and feet.

Girdle of strength: Joseph Pilates coined this term to name the muscles making up the center of the body, including the pelvic floor, transverse abdominus, internal obliques, and multifidus. These four mus-cles form a natural corset that draws up and in, creating a strong center from which smooth, easy, and safe movements start.

The muscles in the girdle of strength are stabilizers, so they are the first and deepest layer of muscles that contribute to creating a tall, stable spine to support the body, trans-fer power, and make movements efficient. The girdle of strength’s function is to pre-vent or stabilize movement rather than initi-ate it.

Core: Though traditionally defined as the abdominals, the core actually encom-passes everything located between the hips (pelvis and glutes) and the shoulder girdles. The core muscles in the hips need to be flex-ible and the core muscles in the trunk need to be strong. Combined, they make up the powerhouse of an elite softball player. A strong core allows energy to flow from the center of the body out to the arms and legs.

Hips: The hip is a ball and socket joint made up of the pelvis, gluteal, hip flexor, adductor, and abductor. Movement at this complex joint depends on the teamwork of all the surrounding muscles. For example, if a player’s girdle of strength is weak, then big mobilizers like the hip flexors and ham-strings will do much of the work, creating an imbalance.

KL posture usually creates imbalances and eventually injuries due to the pelvis being anteriorly rotated (tilted forward), which has an affect on the spine and hips. The forward tilt creates too much curvature in the spine, shortening the erector spinae and hip flexors while creating weakness in the gluteals due to tightness in the ham-strings. When stiffness or tightness is pres-ent, an athlete’s body will find a way to work around it, expending extra energy and decreasing power and speed.

Shoulders: Throwing athletes who exhibit KL posture tend to have abducted scapula, weakened lower trapezius, length-ened serratus anterior, and slumping due to tight anterior deltoids and pectorals. On the surface, a lengthened serratus anterior is an advantage for a softball player because it allows the athlete to throw further and



NFCA Booth Nos. 413,415


harder. But this is only a short-term benefit. Eventually, the internal rotation of the shoulders shortens the latissimi, pectoralis, and subscapularis, causing the muscles in the upper back (rhomboids, trapezius, infrasinatus, and teres minor) to lengthen. This creates dysfunction and weakness at the shoulder joint. If the athlete continues to work around the weakness, an injury will likely occur.

Feet: The foundation of the body, the feet are also crucial for good alignment. Most athletes forget about the importance of their feet because they have come to rely on sneakers, cleats, and/or orthotics to stabi-lize them. However, when using shoes and orthotics for stabilization, the muscles, liga-ments, and tendons in the feet become untrained and unresponsive to the stresses produced by playing sports.

A player who has weak feet and limited range of motion at the ankle will see their

performance suffer. This reliance also increases the chance of injury by creating an imbalanced, dysfunctional weak link.

BAMA WORKOUTSTraining proper posture is a never-end-

ing task, but it is one that can be done dur-ing any team activity. In the weightroom, I prescribe a traditional workout and focus on posture in each exercise we do.

During the off-season, the team lifts three days a week. Each lifting session is 90 minutes long and it includes a warmup, quick feet drills, Olympic variation lifts, and lower body, upper body (including shoulder prehab), and core work. Here’s a glance at the team’s lifting day workouts, including how posture is a focus in each part.

Warmup: The team lines up on the 20-yard line of the turf field three mornings a week, barefoot and ready to begin its warmup. Movements consist of dynamic stretches, balance work, and glute activa-tion. Warming up barefoot—without tape or socks—allows the muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the feet to strengthen, which promotes good alignment and force absorp-tion up the kinetic chain from the ankle, knee, and hip.

Before each new exercise begins, the players complete a posture check: toes straight ahead, knees in line with toes and not collapsing in, girdle up and in, pubic bone titled forward, chest open with shoul-der blades back and down—like putting your shoulder blades in your back pock-ets—and neck long with head held high.

Every movement of the warmup, from a jog to tin soldiers to leg swings, must be done with good posture by every player or the entire team starts over. Focusing on proper movement of the body from the start prepares it for the more advanced exer-cises that come later in the workout.

After the athletes are awake and aware of how their bodies are moving, they complete supersets of balance and glute activation exercises. Generally speaking, softball play-ers have “glute amnesia” due to their KL posture. Glute amnesia is a term Cook uses to explain that due to athletes’ bad posture

and their reliance on big mobilizers rather than the core to stabilize, their gluteals stop working in the right pattern for movement. The glutes essentially shut down, which cre-ates tightness and shortening in the big moblizers, putting a kink in the chain.

We use scales and excursions to increase strength of the stabilizers in the feet and lower legs, and to reiterate girdle of strength activation to promote movement and not create it. Players also complete mini band walks forward, backward, and laterally for five to 10 yards along with variations of bird dogs, clams, or bridges—all while focusing on using the glutes to stabilize the pelvis, which allows the hamstrings and hip flexors to mobilize.

Quick feet: After the warmup is com-plete, the nervous system needs to be primed for the workout that will follow. During the first few weeks of the fall off-season, fresh-men and players who didn’t stay on campus over the summer put their sneakers back on for this portion of the workout so we don’t over-train their feet. Upperclassmen and those who were on campus over the sum-mer continue the workout barefoot. Each week, the players progress a little further into the quick feet section while barefoot in order to continue promoting good body

alignment and push strength up the kinetic chain.

A quick posture check to realign is com-pleted if needed. To train quick feet, we use jump ropes, cones, ladders, hurdles, lines, and The Cube, which help improve ground contact time and multi-directional move-ment. Of all the tools out there, my favorite is the jump rope. It can be used by athletes at all levels to improve ground contact time, coordination, stamina, and posture. Jump-ing rope also promotes good alignment from the feet up, and it gives the athlete immediate feedback if their body is mis-aligned or out of sync. Good posture is necessary for power and speed in this activ-ity.

Olympic variations: Triple extension is key to success for athletes in all sports, and the best way to improve it is through full body Olympic movements and medicine ball throws. However, our softball players do

not clean, snatch, or jerk. Instead, we train Olympic variations. Using Olympic pulls and med balls in movements similar to Olympic lifts allows the athletes to reap the benefits of power without the risk of injury.

Players pull from the ground, hang, and rack, but never complete the catch portion of the lift. Posture and triple extension can be trained through the pulls without the athlete having to decelerate the bar at the shoulder, which can lead to an increased risk of shoulder injury. Prior to each pull, the player must complete a posture check, which ensures their spine and core are in position to hold strong so that power can smoothly transfer from the ground up.

Med balls are also used for power pro-duction and promoting triple extension. Granny throws, overhead backward throws, squat to presses, and many other variations are used to promote proper body alignment and posture for max power production.

Lower body: “Big butts, big power” is something you can hear our players saying around the weightroom pretty often. We squat, and we squat heavy, but not until the athlete is ready and their posture can handle the load on their back through full range of motion. Posture checks take place and are coached throughout the entire lift. If I see


“Big butts, big power” is something you can hear our players saying around the weightroom pretty often. We squat, and we squat heavy, but not until the athlete is ready and their posture can handle the load on their back through full range of motion.


someone losing form and not working through full range of motion, then the weight is lowered to allow for proper body alignment and posture.

Single-leg squat and lunge variations are also used. They include lunges in all direc-tions, step-ups, rear foot-elevated squats, and overhead squats. Each of these move-ments promotes and encourages good pos-ture. Unlike the squat, the single-leg exercises are more similar to sport-specific move-ments. Teaching the athletes how to not only stand with good posture, but also how to move multidirectionally with good posture will have more carryover onto the field.

After working the multi-joint lifts, the posterior of the body needs to be addressed. To do this, we use partner glute ham raises, leg curl variations, and Romanian deadlift variations. Most female athletes are quad-dominant and have tight hamstrings and weak glutes, which creates imbalances in the body and increases the chance of injury all the way up the kinetic chain. Placing lateral band walks, lateral squats, and lat-eral lunges into the workout teaches the body to maintain posture while fielding, running the bases, pitching, and hitting.

Upper body: Next, the team progresses to upper body work, which includes one chest exercise for every four (to five) back exercises. The one-to-four ratio helps cre-ate better posture and shoulder strength because it balances out the players’ actions on the field. Fielding, running, hitting, and pitching are all anterior-strengthening movements. Therefore, in the weightroom, we work more on the posterior muscles.

I prescribe the team a heavy bench press along with many different variations of the press, including incline, speed, or dynamic presses, dumbbell work, band work, and pushups. As with all of our exercises, pos-ture is something we focus in on. When completing a bench or incline press, ath-letes are expected to firmly plant their feet on the ground, pull their girdle of strength up and in, open the chest and push the shoulder blades back and down to create a solid and stable base.

A lot of softball teams no longer include the traditional bench press in their work-outs, but this lift gives the athletes confi-dence and the opportunity for a little intra-team competition. If done correctly and with the one-to-four ratio at the right time of year (which for us is the off-sea-son), the bench press can be a great exer-cise for softball athletes.

After a heavy bench press or variation, the players follow with one heavy back exercise plus three other posture or shoul-der prehab exercises. My favorite back


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Circle No. 111

exercises are the single-arm dumbbell row and all-purpose band rows (single- and double-arm). Both of these exercises require good posture to resist rotation. Other exer-cises include pull-ups, horizontal pull-ups, Hammer rows, and lat pull-downs.

The posture and shoulder prehab exer-cises are completed with body weight, light bands, or light dumbbells, working between 10 and 15 reps to increase the stamina of the postural muscles. My favorites are the reverse fly, Y-T-W, bird dog, external rotation, and 90/90 band row.

Along with the prehab work that players do in the weightroom, Softball Athletic Trainer Nick Seiler has set up a great shoul-der care program for all freshman athletes and those with previous shoulder injuries. Nick creates an environment for the athletes to achieve success by working with them one-on-one during shoulder care to make sure they demonstrate proper posture and body alignment during the movements, reinforcing the message they are hearing from me in the weightroom.

Core: We end every workout with a core section, even though a lot of core work has already taken place. The athletes complete four to five exercises such as sit-ups, Russian

twists, supermans, crunches, wipers, planks, and other traditional movements. These exercises are completed in one to three sets, with 10 to 25 reps in each, depending on where we are in the off-season. On Wednes-days, the players complete a core circuit at the end of the workout that includes anti-rotation with bands, farmer holds with 25-pound plates, traditional core work, and back extensions.

We concentrate on posture in each of these ordinary core exercises in our own way. For example, when doing the super-man, the athletes are told to pull their belly button away from the ground to pull the girdle of strength up and in. When doing crunches, they are told to pull their belly toward the ground to create a strong, stable center.

OUTSIDE THE WEIGHTROOM Good posture can also be developed any-

where and anytime during an athlete’s day—while sitting in class, driving, or doing homework, for example. As the athletes grow more aware and conscious of their bodies, they will be able to practice great posture throughout the day, now realizing

that what had previously felt natural may not be.

In addition to hearing my coaching cues throughout their workouts, our softball players also hear me talking about good posture to my assistants, interns, and ath-letic training students. “Traps out of your ears” is a favorite phrase of mine. Because the athletes hear it so much, I often see them fixing their posture themselves before I say anything. I know I’ve done my job well when I hear a sophomore telling a team-mate, “Get your traps out of your ears and stand tall!”

Coach Murphy and his staff preach the mentality that champions give “that little extra.” This could be the team’s intensity, ownership, dedication, passion, or focus. In the weightroom, I contribute to that men-tality by coaching and enforcing a little extra on the players’ posture. CM

A version of this article was previously pub-lished in Coaching Management’s sister publication, Training & Conditioning. More articles from T&C can be found at: www.Training-Conditioning.com.


Circle No. 112

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adidas ..........................................1125055 N. Greeley Ave.Portland, OR 97217971-284-2800www.adidas.com

All-Star Sporting Goods ... 327, 4261 Main StShirley, MA 01464800-777-3810www.all-starsports.com

American Int’l Sports Teams (AIST) .31118212 East 50th Terrace Ct.Independence, MO 64055816-866-0632www.AIST.us

Atlanta Legacy Showcase .........516722 Main StForest Park, GA 30297404-557-7585www.legacyshowcase.com

Baden Sports ..............................12134114 21st Ave SFederal Way, WA 98003800-544-2998www.badensports.com

Baseball Racks ............................4142908 W 99th PlaceEvergreen Park, IL 60805708-636-1047www.baseballracks.com

Better Softball ............................813132 Carruth DrMarietta, GA 30060800-997-4233www.bettersoftball.com

BigSigns.com ..............................70022 South Harbor Drive, Ste. 101Grand Haven, MI 49417800-790-7611www.bigsigns.com

Boombah ............................ 219, 221202 Boombah BlvdYorkville, IL 60560630-385-7703www.boombah.com

BowNet .......................................5154690 Calle QuetzalCamarillo, CA 93012866-950-6387www.thebownet.com

BSN Sports ..................................4211901 Diplomat DriveFarmers Branch, TX 75234800-527-7510www.bsnsports.com

Buckeye Showdown Recruitfest ...3186540 West Central AveToledo, OH 43617419-841-2596www.fastpitchshowdowns.com

BuntDown Bat ............................70249 Calumet RoadHolyoke, MA 01040413-552-9511www.buntdownbat.com

Buster’s Design Team .................122421 Second StreetAnn Arbor, MI 48103734-913-2781www.bustersdesignteam.com

C & H Softball .......................52610615 Technology Terrace #100Bradenton, FL 34211800-248-5192www.c-hsoftball.comIt’s your turn at bat. C & H Softball has been providing professional equipment for 44 years. In 2012, its team developed practice screens and a batting cage just for softball.

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Clear Vision Publishing ..............703301 Hwy 9Manalapan, NJ 07726908-510-8644www.cvpublishing.com

Clell Wade Coaches Directory ...309P.O. Box 177Cassville, MO 65625877-386-4840www.coachesdirectory.com

Coaching Management….71020 Eastlake RoadIthaca, NY 14850607-257-6970www.athleticmanagement.com

Combat Sports ................... 507, 5096651 South 216th StreetKent, WA 98031866-266-2287www.combatsportsgroup.com

Crossover Symmetry......... 216, 2185405 W. 56th Ave, Unit HArvada, CO 80002303-403-0126www.gocrossover.com

Disney Sports—ESPN Wide World of Sports ......................................803

P.O. Box 10000Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830407-938-3801www.espnwwos.com

Easton Sports .............226, 227, 3267855 Haskell Ave.Van Nuys, CA 91046818-718-1587www.eastonsoftball.com

ESPN Coaches Fundraising Program ....409P.O Box 10,000Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830407-947-4021www.coaches.espn.com

Evoshield ............................ 306, 308300 Commerce Blvd.Bogart, GA 30622770-725-2724www.evoshield.com

FieldwallPads.com .....................1161791 Page Ave., Clarion, IA 50525800-257-6405www.fieldwallpads.com

Front Rush ...................................419287 S. Main St, Suite 12Lambertville, NJ 08530215-489-2100www.frontrush.com

Frozen Ropes Baseball Co. ........11024 Old Black Meadow RdChester, NY 10918845-469-7331www.frozenropes.com

G Tee Batting Tees ......................4101721 N.E 19th Ave. Ocala, FL 34470877-448-4833www.thegtee.com

GameChanger .............................41213 E. 16th St, Flr 6New York, NY 10003202-642-5333www.GameChanger.io

girls got game ............................804131 Main Street, Ste 1Geneseo, NY 14454866-600-9905www.girlsgotgame.com

Jugs Sports, Inc .................. 313, 31511885 SW Herman RdTualatin, OR 97062800-547-6843www.jugssports.com

Lee County Sports Authority ....3162305 BroadwayFort Myers, FL 33901239-344-5201www.leecountysports.org

Lizard Skins .................................411358 S. Mountain Way DrOrem, UT 84058801-229-9099www.lizardskinsbaseball.com

M.A.S.A. Inc. ................. 413, 4151413 S. Meridian RoadJasper, IN 47546800-264-4519www.sportsadvantage.comM.A.S.A. is your source for quality athletic field maintenance equipment and training devices. The company specializes in baseball, softball, soccer, football, and basketball equipment at competitive prices.

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Mizuno USA ...............205, 207, 2093520 Ridgewood DriveLoomis, CA 95650916-652-2257www.mizunousa.com

MotionPro! By CyberAccess123 ...407PO Box 86Cary, NC 27512888-407-9665www.motionprosoftware.com

National Pro Fastpitch ...............2173350 Hobson PikeHermitage, TN 37076615-232-2900www.profastpitchcom

National Sports Products ....1233441 S. 11th AveEldridge, IA 52748800-478-6497www.nationalsportsproducts.comWe offer a full line of softball equipment including batting tunnels, protective screens, windscreens, field covers, helmets, catcher’s gear, bats, gloves, training aids, and equipment holders.

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NCSA Athletic Recruiting ..........3101415 N. Dayton St., 4th FloorChicago, IL 60642866-495-7089www.ncsasports.org

Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program 1081128 SE 70th Ave.Hillsboro, OR 97123503-848-7889www.speedbat.com

Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program includes Nemo’s Speed Training Bat, single-handed bat, triple-hitting tee, and five instructional DVDs. This year’s new product, Coach Nemo & Friends DVD, is now available.

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Nokona ........................................801105 Clay St.Nocona, TX 76255800-433-0957www.nokona.com

O’Brien Sports ............................606P.O. Box 470089Celebration, FL 34747973-953-2992www.obriensportsllc.com

On Deck Sports .................. 111, 11388 Spark StreetBrockton , MA 02302508-580-6171www.ondecksports.com

Osborne Innovative Products ....................... 413, 415

1413 S. Meridian RoadJasper, IN 47546800-264-4519www.sportsadvantage.comM.A.S.A. is your source for quality athletic field maintenance equipment and training devices. The company specializes in baseball, softball, soccer, football, and basketball equipment at competitive prices.

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Own The Zone Sports ................2112345 N. Houston St #712Dallas, TX 75219972-975-0629www.ownthezonesports.com

Pickle-Ball ....................................608810 NW 45th StSeattle, WA 98107800-377-9915www.pickleball.com

Pocket Radar, Inc. .................2143535 Industrial Drive, Suite A4Santa Rosa, CA 95403888-381-2672www.pocketradar.comPocket Radar, Inc., produces innovative training tools, including the world’s smallest full performance radar gun. Used by championship winning coaches to improve their pitching, hitting, and running.

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Pointstreak Sports Technologies ....70550 Minthorn Blvd, Sye 400Thornhill, Ontario L3T 7X8905-731-9867www.pointstreak.com

Pro Look Sports ................. 508, 5101325 S. 800 E. #315Orem, UT 84097800-PRO-LOOKwww.ProLook.com

ProGlider Bats .................... 512, 5149710 Owensmouth AveChatsworth, CA 91311877-395-2287www.progliderbats.com

Rebel Spring Games...................1191201 Beckwith Ave NEGrand Rapids, MI 49505www.rebelspringgames.com

RevFire Corporation ............3042143 Willow Creek Dr.Boulder, CO 80301800-414-3040www.revfire.comRevFire Corporation provides pitchers and coaches advanced training tools that are unparalleled in advancing pitching skills.

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Contact: Gina Sauer National Softball Sales Director 800-248-5192 [email protected]

Circle No. 114 Circle No. 115

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RightView Pro….Booth 20827 Middleridge Lane SouthRolling Hills, CA 90274301-377-9221www.rightviewpro.comMotion analysis software & training

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Ringor ................................. 104, 1067929 SW Burns Way, Suite CWilsonville, OR 97070-7678800-746-4670www.ringor.com

Rip-It ...................305, 307, 404, 4064210 LB McCleod RdOrlando, FL 32811888-957-4748www.ripitsportinggoods.com

Rixstine Recognition ......... 126, 1272350 ‘O’ StreetLincoln, NE 68510402-476-3810www.rixstine.com

Russell Brands .................... 416, 4181 Fruit of the Loom DriveBowling Green, KY 42101270-746-0600www.russellathletic.com

Scoutware , LLC ..........................506954 W. Washington Blvd, Ste 640Chicago, IL 60607312-651-6626www.scoutware.com

Select Hospitality .......................4271109 W. Main StBoise, ID 83702208-475-4985www.selecthospitality.net

Shoeless Joe ...............................109600 Main StHays, KS 67601855-563-4568www.shoelessjoellc.com

Slow the Game Down ...............4231100 S. Coast Hwy, #203Laguna Beach, CA 92651866-627-3400www.slowthegamedown.com

Softball Excellence .....................3044211 Saltwater Blvd.Tampa, FL 33615813-417-0238www.sotballexcellence.com

Softball Powerdrive .......... 220, 222227 Arlington StFramingham, MA 01702252-469-5813www.softballpowerdrive.com

Sports Attack ........................5222805 U.S. 40Verdi, NV 89439800-717-4251www.sportsattack.comSports Attack is a manufacturer of professional sports training equipment. Baseball, softball, football, volleyball, tennis, and soccer are all covered--for all levels, beginner to pro.

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Sports Tutor, Inc. ...............401, 500, 501, 600, 601

3300 Winona Ave.Burbank, CA 91504800-448-8867www.sportsmachines.com Sports Tutor is a leading manufacturer of pitching machines for baseball and softball featuring programmable models, Homeplate, and the Triple Play Premier.

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Sports USA .................................10726072 Merit Circle, Suite 112Laguna Hills, CA 92653800-613-8002www.sportsusaelite.com

Stabilizer Solutions, Inc. .......40533 S. 28th StreetPhoenix, AZ 85043602-225-5900www.stabilizersolutions.comStabilizer Solutions, Inc. is advancing the evolution of natural soil for baseball and softball fields.

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NFCA Booth No. 108Circle No. 116


These companies are exhibiting at the NFCA convention (as of Oct. 27, 2012). Information was provided by the NFCA.

Summit America Insurance Services........................................802

7400 College Blvd., Suite 100Overland Park, KS 66210913-327-0200 x114www.summitamerica-ins.com

The Bench Coach ........................120912 Bristlewood DrMcKinney, TX 75070972-740-5417www.TheBenchCoach.com

The Fastpitch School ..................511900 S. Meadows Pkwy #714Reno, NV 813-335-4487www.thefastpitchschool.com

The Softball Factory ...................8069176 Red Branch Rd Suite MColumbia, MD 21045855-822-5115www.softballfactory.com

Total Control Sports ...................4082000 S. 25th Ave, Unit 1Broadview, IL 60155708-486-5800www.totalcontrolsports.com

Tucson Invitational Games ........704702 S. Craycroft Rd, Ste FTucson, AZ 85711520-777-7680www.tigsports.com

Under Armour ................... 223, 3221020 Hull St.Baltimore, MD 21230410-246-1801www.underarmour.com

USA Baseball Women’s National Team ............................................317

403 Blackwell StDurham, NC 27701919-474-8721www.usabaseball.com

Vero Beach Sports Village ...1144003 26th StreetVero Beach, FL 32960866-656-4900www.vbsportsvillage.comThis 79-acre sports and conference center provides your team with the ideal setting to grow and better prepare for your upcoming season.

See ad on page 13

Virtual Softball Academy Powered by USA Elite Training ........ 518, 520

45 R Ozick Dr, #16Durham, CT 06422860-349-1771www.virtualsoftballacademy.com

Vizual Edge .................................5056 East Phillip Road, Ste 1110Vernon Hills, IL 60061847-816-3131www.vizualedge.com

Wilson Sporting Goods ............321, 323, 420, 422

8750 W. Bryn Mawr AvenueChicago, IL 60631773-714-6400www.wilson.com

Worth Sports ..................... 115, 1176707 Keaton Corporate PkwyO’Fallon, MO 63368314-819-2800www.worthsports.com

WSI Sports...................................8051325 Eagandale Blvd. #170Eagan, MN 55121651-994-9945www.WSISports.com

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IntroducIng: The Athlete's Guide To NutritionFrom the Publishers of Coaching Management

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Products on Display

Realistic Batting PRacticeThe Softball e-Hack Attack Programmable Pitching Machine has made its debut. Now you can simply input any change in speed, location, or pitch-type to deliver any fastball, right- or left-hand screwball, riser, or drop. Set pitches in any sequence, weighted, or random to work on

weaknesses or to prepare for an upcoming pitcher. This unit is an electronic version of the tried and true Hack Attack. Provide one of the most realistic batting practices your team has ever experienced with the e-Hack Attack. Sports Attack • 800-717-4251www.sportsattack.com Circle No. 501

Quality timeVero Beach Sports Village provides the ideal setting to enable your team to grow together, and better prepare for your upcoming season. Everything you need is here at this 79-acre sports and conference center. The complex can be configured to accommodate a variety of sports. It features an abundance of competition and practice fields, along with on-site housing, dining, and recreation, allowing your team to spend quality time together on and off the field.Vero Beach Sports Village • 772-257-8557 www.vbsportsvillage.com Circle No. 507

imPRove youR gamePocket Radar™ is a multi-purpose training tool designed and proven to help you win more games. Used by championship-winning teams across the country, the Pocket Radar can help improve your hitting, pitching, running, and fielding. As the world’s smallest full performance radar gun, the Pocket Radar allows you to accurately make speed and quickness measurements easily on the field every day for under $200. Accurate to +/- 1 MPH, it has a 120-foot range on a softball, and gives over 10,000 readings on one set of 2 AAA batteries.Pocket Radar, Inc. • 888-381-2672www.pocketradar.com Circle No. 504

PRogRam youR PitchesThe HomePlate Softball programmable pitching machine can simulate any pitch that batters are likely to face. It can automatically throw a 70-mile-per-hour riser, a 50-mile-per-hour drop pitch, a curve, and a slider with only seven seconds between pitches. Coaches can store up to eight different pitches in each of the eight programs. Programmed pitches can be thrown sequentially for specific hitting drills, or randomly to simulate game conditions. HomePlate features an auto-feed system and a 40-ball capacity. The HomePlate Softball Model costs $6,995.Sports Tutor • 800-448-8867 www.sportsmachines.com Circle No. 505

DesigneD foR softBallC & H Softball redesigned its signature portable batting cage with softball in mind, naming it “The Riser.” The Riser is smaller than C & H’s signature cage, which opens up the infield for a new perspective—and enhances the unique softball hitting mechanics. The Riser is 16’ deep x 9’ high x 9.5’ wide. It utilizes one-inch aluminum pipe, 18-inch golf cart tires, and heavy 36-gauge nylon netting. This all adds up to a professional-quality softball batting cage that is easily moved and will elevate the quality of your field products. C&H Softball • 800-248-5192www.c-hsoftball.com Circle No. 506

aDvanceD soilStabilizer Solutions, Inc. is advancing the evolution of natural soil for baseball and softball fields. The company offers advanced mound clays, as well as infield and warning track mixes in both its Stabilizer®

organic and Hilltopper® waterless product lines. As the official playing surface of the NFCA, Stabilizer® “Pro Red” Infield Mix and Hilltopper® Waterless Mound Clay save time while providing protection from the elements. Stabilizer Solutions, Inc. • 800-336-2468www.stabilizersolutions.com Circle No. 527

the Right Ball foR youM.A.S.A. carries softballs made by Dudley, Worth, Wilson, Diamond, and Champro. These balls vary for NFHS, ASA, and NCAA events. They range in core, compression, and stitching, and come in leather

or synthetic material. Let M.A.S.A.’s sales professionals help you find the ball that you’re looking for at some of the most competitive prices in the country.M.A.S.A. • 800-264-4519 www.sportsadvantage.com Circle No. 500

heavy-Duty fRamesThe new Douglas® Double Batting Tunnel Frames share center poles to allow side-by-side installation eliminating the need for extra poles and ground footings. These heavy-duty frames feature the

same high-quality craftsmanship as the single Douglas® frames constructing from four-inch square heavy steel with a black powder coat finish to add extra resistance to the elements. Adjustable crossbars feature Allied’s® Superior zinc Flo-coat® galvanization process for maximum protection. This product boasts a five-year warranty.National Sports Products • 800-478-6497 www.nationalsportsproducts.com Circle No. 530


Products on Display

Push-Button ConvenienCeBatting practice just got easier. With the TriplePlay Pro Softball Pitching Machine, you simply push a button to choose the type of pitch you want—including risers, sinkers, curves, drop curves, screwballs, and drop screwballs. The pitch speed is adjustable from 35 to 70 miles per hour, and the softball is visible from the time it leaves the feeder’s hand until it is pitched, allowing hitters to more naturally time the pitches. TriplePlay Pro features a three-wheel pitching mechanism for greater accuracy, and two large transport wheels make it simple to move to and from the field. The TriplePlay Pro Softball costs $2,995.Sports Tutor • 800-448-8867www.sportsmachines.com Circle No. 510

ProteCtion Without ComPromiseC&H Softball is debuting its newly designed Pitcher’s L Screen for softball. This screen allows the pitcher the full-range of arm motion while protecting their entire body, and it allows for proper pitching mechanics with no compromise. The Pitcher’s L Screen is manufactured with heavy nylon netting, one-inch aluminum pipe, and eight-inch wheels.C&H Softball • 800-248-5192www.c-hsoftball.com Circle No. 511

QuiCk and dePendaBle National Sports Products, a division of Douglas Industries, Inc., is a leader in supplying superior windscreens for any sports facility. With the company’s advanced printing technology,

four-color unlimited printing opportunities are offered. Environmentally friendly, UV curable inks that will withstand the elements are used. Windscreens are custom made for your specifications and of course Douglas’s meticulous reputation guarantees superior workmanship for a reliable finished product. Dependable customer service and fast lead times will get your windscreen project completed on time.National Sports Products • 800-478-6497www.nationalsportsproducts.com Circle No. 526

duraBle ProteCtionM.A.S.A. offers a wide variety of Osborne screens and nets. Osborne protective screens have been highly regarded by coaches as some of the most durable and versatile equipment available. Maximum-strength #72 braided nylon netting and HD galvanized steel ensure years

of performance. Innovative features include rotating and telescoping legs for compact storage; height-adjustable frames for infinite positioning and transport options; and swivel-style L-screen tops for right- and left-handed pitchers. M.A.S.A.’s wide variety of sizes and styles can meet any requirement. M.A.S.A. • 800-264-4519 www.sportsadvantage.com Circle No. 508

Clear visionThe Junior Hack Attack Softball Pitching Machine will make it seem like a live pitcher is there. With the Junior Hack Attack’s three-wheel design, you’ll see the ball clearly all the way through the feeding motion, acceleration, and release. The hitter will be able to see when to stride, and the angle of

release, which will give an actual live-arm sense of timing and location.Sports Attack • 800-717-4251www.sportsattack.com Circle No. 509

aCCurate and easy to useThe White Line Chalker family is now better than ever. White Line Equipment has maintained the same institutional strength and quality you have come to expect--but several new features have been added, making them more accurate and easier to use. Don’t be confused by low-quality, imported imitations--with more than 30 years of line-marking experience, White Line Equipment has produced some of the most durable, advanced, and user-friendly line of markers available. Professional teams, universities, schools, park and recreation departments, and leagues have used these markers extensively worldwide. White Line Equipment • 877-717-2892 www.whitelineequipment.com Circle No. 529

develoP strong movementThe RevFire® measures the spin of pitches as well as the speed, enabling coaches to pinpoint areas in need of improvement. Coaches report that using the RevFire increases pitcher spin awareness—and motivation to increase spin rate—which enables pitchers to develop strong movement on the ball. A growing number of professional coaches rely on RevFire spin stats for assessing potential pitching recruits. Learn more by checking out the RevFire online. RevFire Corporation • 866-414-3040www.revfire.com Circle No. 502

learn from the toPCoach Nemo is releasing his fifth instructional DVD at the NFCA Coaches Convention. This DVD features some of his close coaching associates from the college level, including: Sheilah Gulus, Ashland University; Karen Linder, Kent State University; Emily Moore Russell, Lee University; Jackson Vaughan,

Linfield College; Greg Stewart, Oregon Tech; and Gary Bryce, Wayne State University. Other contributors include Jacy Jukkula from Glencoe (Ore.) High School, and Sparky Parker a Pro Hitting Consultant from Washington. Each coach will present two of their favorite drills and have their players demonstrate it.Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program • 503-848-7889www.coachnemo.com Circle No. 503


More Products

SurpriSingly Value-pricedThe Tuffy® Windscreen lasts many years because it’s made of Aer-Flo’s exclusive VIPOL® Matrix. It’s the official windscreen of the U.S. Professional Tennis Association, and is a super-premium product but surprisingly value priced. Used by NCAA, MLB, NFL, and thousands of high school teams the Tuffy® Windscreen is available in 20 standard colors including purple, burnt orange, sky blue, and true scarlet. With Chroma-Bond Imprinting, your team’s logos and colors will not fade like digital printing. This product comes with a five-year factory warranty.Aer-Flo, Inc. • 800-823-7356www.aerflo.com Circle No. 518

Full Speed aheadImprove linear speed, agility, and power with the TurfCordz® Modular Speed Belt. Designed for speed-assisted and resisted running exercises, this two-person system allows the lead to run against resistance provided by the trailing runner—then athletes can quickly change positions without removing the belts. The system includes a modular 20-foot heavy rubber tube with safety cord; mounting loop; and two two-inch adjustable Velcro® closure belts to fit up to a 52-inch waist. NZ Manufacturing • 800-866-6621www.turfcordz.com Circle No. 517

get an edge with FSu Interested in advancing your coaching career or breaking into this highly rewarding field? Then the Florida State University Graduate Certificate in Coaching is a promising place to start. The

program, which requires 12 credit hours over four online courses, provides advanced coaching education to give you an edge in this extremely competitive field. For program requirements, admissions, cost and course descriptions, visit FSU online. Florida State University • 850-644-4298www.coe.fsu.edu/sportcoaching Circle No. 514

Many SatiSFied cuStoMerSBeAM CLAy® has supplied products to every Major League Baseball team, more than 150 minor league teams, more than 700 colleges, and thousands of towns and schools. BeAM CLAy

supplies special mixes for infields, pitcher’s mounds, home plate areas, red warning tracks, infield conditioners, and drying agents, plus more than 200 other infield products, including regional infield mixes blended for every state and climate from bulk plants nationwide. Beam Clay • 800-247-BEAMwww.beamclay.com Circle No. 515

enhance their gaMeDevelop strong first-step quickness with the Power Stepper™. This product is a great tool to develop strong lateral movement for players who want to enhance their game. Start with intermediate resistance to teach and perfect their skill—then graduate to advanced and elite resistance. The padded ankle cuffs are extra long to accommodate more users. each unit includes a 10-inch tube, and padded cuffs with Velcro® straps. The price for the Power Stepper ranges from $20 to $25.Power Systems, Inc. • 800-321-6975www.powersystems.com Circle No. 516

SupportS MuScle rebuildingG Series Protein Recovery Beverage is a protein and carbohydrate beverage formulated with the consistency of a thirst quencher. It has an effective amount of protein that contains essential amino acids needed to help support muscle rebuilding after training or competition. G Series Recover should be consumed within about 60 minutes after exercise for maximum muscle benefit.

Gatorade • 800-884-2867www.gatorade.com Circle No. 512

For better FieldSDiamond Pro has a complete line of professional groundskeeping products, including infield conditioners; calcined clay; mound and home plate clay; bricks; marking dust; and infield and warning track mixes. The company offers fast and convenient delivery.

Diamond Pro’s vitrified red clay infield conditioner is available in bulk nationwide, and is easy to handle and apply. Truckloads are available in 10-, 15-, and 24-ton loads that save you both time and money. TXI/Diamond Pro • 800-228-2987www.diamondpro.com Circle No. 519

go “Skill-SpeciFic”Muhl Tech Baseball & Softball offers equipment to make your practice time more productive. Since 2001, the company has been developing a line of “skill-specific” training equipment that gives hitters instant feedback with every swing. The products are designed to withstand heavy use during high school and college team practices. The company also offers its own line of batting cages and screens, sold direct to save you money. Muhl Tech • 888-766-8772www.muhltech.com Circle No. 513


More Products

Teaches VisuallyColor-coded targets on the Bunt Zone® Trainer teach the proper

placement of bunts for a hit (yellow), sacrifice (green), and the deadly pitcher’s triangle (red) by visualization. Tough vinyl-polyester mesh fabric lasts for years, and looks great. The Bunt Zone is currently used by scores of high school and college teams, and is widely accepted as one of the best bunt trainers available today. This product is stocked at the factory, but available only through authorized dealers.Aer-Flo, Inc. • 800-823-7356www.aerflo.com Circle No. 520

DeVelop power Rope training is an effective way of developing power and explosiveness in muscle strength.

The Power Training Rope is designed to provide overall conditioning, by pushing the user’s stamina and grip strength. The Power Training Rope is available in two colors and four different lengths ranging from 30 feet to 100 feet. Power Systems also offers two different diameters—this contributes to weight differentiation, and provides a variety to suit the user’s needs. The price for the Power Training Rope ranges from $125 to $498.Power Systems, Inc. • 800-321-6975www.powersystems.com Circle No. 522

pre-Game FuelG Series Energy Chews are a pre-game fuel in a convenient form. They are designed to be used about 15 minutes prior to training or competition to provide energy from a concentrated blend of carbohydrates to fuel athlete performance. G Series Energy Chews help make carbohydrate energy rapidly available to working muscles for the start of activity, so athletes might feel the difference at the beginning of training or competition.Gatorade • 800-884-2867www.gatorade.com Circle No. 523

insTanT FeeDbackWhy is the Advanced Skills Tee from Muhl Tech used by more than 2,000 high school and college programs? You get instant feedback with every swing. Its unique

forward arm and outside barrier help develop a nice swing path—and keep the hands inside the ball. The tough polyurethane construction will give you years of worry-free use. Try one this season, and if you don’t like it, the company will buy it back. Muhl Tech • 888-766-8772www.muhltech.com Circle No. 521

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proVen anD TesTeDMar Mound Clay is proven and tested to improve over time. It holds together longer and reduces the amount of wear created by pitchers. A study shows it is easy to use immediately upon delivery, and with time will improve to create the ideal mound/plate area you desire. This product is easy to use and proven to last.

Southern Athletic Fields • 800-837-8062www.mulemix.com Circle No. 524

increases sTrenGTh The purpose of Mini-Chutes is to increase strength and utilize space. The patented design of Mini-Chutes gives the athlete a feeling of a real softball with limited weight alterations. The Mini-Chute allows the athlete to generate up to 10 times the power during the throw in a condensed area, which increases arm strength and keeps the same form as if they were throwing a real softball.

Mini-Chutes • 515-681-6532www.minichutes.com Circle No. 525

meeTinG your specsMemphis Net & Twine makes its products in the U.S., offering batting cages and backstops to meet customers’ exact specifications. The company also fabricates custom windscreens out of vinyl-coated polyester in 11 different colors. These windscreens can be made to any height or

width. Memphis Net & Twine also sells benches, stadium bleachers, and tip-n-roll bleachers. Memphis Net & Twine Co., Inc. • 800-238-6380 www.memphisnet.net Circle No. 531


Company Q&A

East Clarendon High School Softball Coach Lisa Ard discusses using the Junior Hack Attack to improve her team’s game.

How has the Junior Hack Attack changed your practice/training?

We ordered our Junior Hack Attack in 2010 and it has made all the difference in our batting practices. The first day we used the Junior Hack Attack was an experience. The student-athletes were used to hitting off of pitching machines that just throw the ball straight in, so when they first hit against the Junior Hack Attack, they did not hit well at all.

They were frustrated, yet challenged. The team was bound and determined to hit off this machine. They came to practice early and stayed late. They hit, and hit, and hit. They especially loved putting the Junior Hack Attack on the field to hit.

The team’s batting average went up about 100 points that year—from .322 to .418. We were keeping our eye on the ball all the time.

How has the Junior Hack Attack affected your team’s game performance?

My team goes into games a lot more confident. We believe we can hit any pitcher. Since 2010, my teams have had solid performances at the plate, and I believe the Junior Hack Attack has had a lot to do with that. It helps us prepare for all types of pitchers and pitching.

You mentioned that you planned to get a second Junior Hack Attack. How will that machine be incorporated into your training regiment?

I run two cages during practice: one of the machines pitches at 58 miles per hour, while the other runs at 48 miles per hour. I currently have a regular machine going

in the slow cage, but I am looking forward to purchasing another Junior Hack Attack for that cage.

The players get too complacent with pitches that run straight in to the plate, and they do not have to watch the ball to hit it. This type of practice creates bad habits at the plate. The Junior Hack Attack varies its pitches, and you have to keep your eye on the ball to make solid contact. I have found that it is a great teaching tool—even when I can’t be there to instruct each player with her hitting.

Lisa Ard has been teaching and coaching in South Carolina for 24 years. She is presently coaching the East Clarendon High School Softball Team in Turbeville, S. C. There, the Lady Wolverines have been region champions for the past seven consecutive years and district champions for the past six consecutive years.

Preparation for All Types of Pitches

Sports Attack | 800-717-4251 | www.sportsattack.com


Directory

Advertisers DirectoryCircle # . . . .Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

101. . . Aer-Flo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3123. . . Athlete’s Guide to Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26105. . . Athletic Management Program Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14119. . . BEAM CLAY® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30114. . . C&H Softball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23116. . . Coach Nemo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24120. . . Diamond Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32109. . . Florida State University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19122. . . Gatorade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .BC108. . . M.A.S.A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17118. . . Memphis Net & Twine Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25112. . . Mini-Chutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20103. . . Muhl Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11115. . . National Sports Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23121. . . NFCA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IBC107. . . Pocket Radar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16117. . . RevFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25113. . . RightView Pro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21111. . . Southern Athletic Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20100. . . Sports Attack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IFC102. . . Sports Tutor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5106. . . Stabilizer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16110. . . TurfCordz®/NZ Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19104. . . Vero Beach Sports Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Products Directory520. . . Aer-Flo (Bunt Zone® Trainer) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30518. . . Aer-Flo (Tuffy® Windscreen) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29515. . . BEAM CLAY® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29511. . . C&H Softball (Pitcher’s L Screen). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28506. . . C&H Softball (The Riser) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27503. . . Coach Nemo’s Speed Hitting Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28519. . . Diamond Pro® . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29514. . . Florida State University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29523. . . Gatorade (Energy Chews) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30512. . . Gatorade (Recovery Beverage) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29508. . . M.A.S.A. (Osborne protective screens). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28500. . . M.A.S.A. (softballs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27531. . . Memphis Net & Twine Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30525. . . Mini-Chutes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30521. . . Muhl Tech (Advanced Skills Tee) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30513. . . Muhl Tech (“skill-specific” training equipment) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29530. . . National Sports Products (Batting Tunnel Frames) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27526. . . National Sports Products (windscreens) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28504. . . Pocket Radar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27516. . . Power Systems (Power Stepper™) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29522. . . Power Systems (Power Training Rope) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30502. . . RevFire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28524. . . Southern Athletic Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30501. . . Sports Attack (e-Hack Attack) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27509. . . Sports Attack (Junior Hack Attack) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28505. . . Sports Tutor (HomePlate). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27510. . . Sports Tutor (TriplePlay Pro Softball) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28527. . . Stabilizer Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27517. . . TurfCordz®/NZ Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29507. . . Vero Beach Sports Village . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27529. . . White Line Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

NEWPRODUCT

PROFESSIONAL GROUNDSKEEPING

PRODUCTS

STAY CONNECTEDTO EVERYTHING DIAMOND PRO

DOUBLEDOUBLEDOUBLEPLAYPLAYPLAY6-4-3

TM

INFIELD CONDITIONER

Circle No. 120

Circle # . . . .Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page #

tf 800.717.4251 | ph 775.345.2882 | w sportsattack.com

HigH ScHool, college & Pro

Top Left 5.5 ± 1

Top Right 5.5± 1

Bottom 1 0 ± 1

Bottom wheel should always be faster.

Hack Attack

WHEEL SPEED

4 5 67

8

910

BOTTOM 0

1

2

3

4 5 67

8

910 TOP

LEFT

01

2

3

4 5 67

8

9100

1

2

3

TOP RIGHT

WHEEL SPEED

4 5 67

8

910

BOTTOM 0

1

2

3

4 5 67

8

910 TOP

LEFT

01

2

3

4 5 67

8

9100

1

2

3

TOP RIGHT

WHEEL SPEED

RISERRISERDIALED INDIALED IN

RISERRISER

Dial in the perfect r iser ! With the Softball Hack Attack’s three-wheel design, you can pract ice against r isers with just the r ight spin and speed from youth league to professional . Coupled with complete vis ion and a real ist ic release point , the Softball Hack Attack is the ideal tra in ing tool for any player.

Call Spor ts Attack today and order your Softball Hack Attack to get dialed in on the best pitching machine available.

SoFTBAll PiTcHiNg MAcHiNe

id SoftballHackAttack DIALEDIN.indd 1 9/18/12 10:01 AM

Head Coach, Washington2009 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1998

Head Coach, Michigan2005 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1985

Head Coach, Arizona State2008 & ‘11 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 2005

Head Coach, UCLA2010 NCAA I Champion

NFCA Member since 1994

HEATHER TARRMIKE CANDREA

CAROL HUTCHINS CLINT MYERS

KELLY INOUYE-PEREZ

Head Coach, Arizona2006 & ‘07 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1987

COMPANY YOU KEEP...

Although the NFCA was founded by college coaches, it has grown to over 4,000 members consisting of travel ball, high school, and college coaches. We offer memberships for all levels of fastpitch softball: NCAA Division I, II, III, NAIA, NJCAA, CCCAA, NWAACC, High School, Travel Ball, Pro League, International, Athletes, Fans, Parents, and Businesses.

PATRICK MURPHYHead Coach, Alabama2012 NCAA I ChampionNFCA Member since 1990

Circle No. 121

Circle No. 122

Coaching Management 20.13

Documents

Transcript of Coaching Management 20.13