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December 30, 2023

Championship Mentality – Discipline

Championship Mindset: Discipline in Athletes.

Championship Mentality: The Key to Discipline in Athletes

Discipline is a crucial aspect of developing a championship mentality in athletes. In this video, Coach EJ and Coach Ejinosaurus discuss the importance of discipline and how it is often overlooked or misunderstood by athletes. They emphasize that discipline is not simply about showing up or going through the motions, but rather it is a mindset and approach to training that allows athletes to reach their full potential.

The coaches start by debunking the misconception that showing up is enough to be considered disciplined. They stress that true discipline goes beyond just completing the required reps or running the prescribed laps. It is about executing the tasks with the right mindset, focus, and attention to detail. Discipline is a mentality that permeates every aspect of an athlete’s life, both on and off the field.

One example they provide is the importance of dressing appropriately for training sessions. They explain that wearing the right gear, such as proper shoes and workout clothes, helps athletes get into the right mindset and prepares them for the physical demands of their training. It is about creating a switch in the mind that signals it’s time to work and give their best effort.

The coaches also highlight the significance of discipline in managing one’s life and consistency. They explain that consistency requires discipline, and without it, athletes cannot expect to achieve their goals. Discipline should extend beyond training sessions and into everyday life. It involves doing the small things routinely and paying attention to detail, as these aspects often surface when athletes are under pressure.

To illustrate the importance of discipline, the coaches draw parallels to other areas of life, such as handwriting. They discuss how the decline of cursive writing, which requires focus and discipline, due to the prevalence of electronics and shortcuts, affects communication and thought processes. They emphasize the need to slow down, be thoughtful, and not rely solely on shortcuts and abbreviations.

Coach EJ and Coach Ejinosaurus stress that discipline allows athletes to have longevity, focus, and the ability to make adjustments. It provides a roadmap to success and eliminates the need for constantly searching for the next quick fix or magic solution. Discipline is a decision that athletes must make early on and commit to consistently.

In conclusion, developing a championship mentality requires athletes to embrace discipline. It is not just about showing up or going through the motions but about having the right mindset, focus, and attention to detail. Discipline should permeate all aspects of an athlete’s life and be a consistent part of their training regimen. With discipline comes patience, consistency, and ultimately, improved performance. So, athletes, make the decision to embrace discipline and watch your journey to success unfold.

 

 

December 18, 2023

Maximizing the Off-Season: A Guide to Achieving Success in Spring Sports

Maximizing the Off-Season: A Guide to Achieving Success in Spring Sports

 Maximizing the Off-Season: A Guide to Achieving Success in Spring Sports

Welcome to our podcast today, where we discuss the importance of the off-season and how athletes can strategically plan and train for upcoming spring sports. Coach Eric Johnson (EJ) and Coach Aaron Thigpen (The Source) share their insights and expertise on this topic, highlighting the key considerations for athletes during this crucial period.

Understanding the Off-Season:
As the off-season approaches, athletes must ask themselves, “What’s the plan? What’s the goal?” This period between fall and spring sports offers a limited amount of time to prepare for the upcoming season. While the calendar may show 60 days, it’s essential to remember that the actual training days within this timeframe are fewer. Therefore, athletes need to be strategic in their approach, setting clear goals and devising a plan to maximize their training efforts.

Different Types of Athletes:
There are two types of athletes during the off-season: those who have been training consistently throughout the year and those who haven’t. For athletes who have followed a year-round training plan, they may already be in excellent shape and have a well-structured training regime. These athletes have an advantage as they can build upon the progress they have already made and focus on fine-tuning their skills and addressing specific areas of improvement.

On the other hand, athletes who haven’t been training consistently during the off-season need to evaluate their current fitness level and set realistic goals for the next 60 days. Whether it’s regaining fitness, improving endurance, or working on specific skills, these athletes must make the most of the available time and prioritize their training accordingly.

The Importance of Transfer:
One key aspect of off-season training is the concept of transfer. Athletes must ensure that the exercises and drills they engage in during this period directly translate into improved performance in their respective sports. For example, baseball players may focus on mock swings and dry throws to fine-tune their skills and adapt to the increased power and speed they have developed through their training. By bridging the gap between general preparation and sport-specific movements, athletes can enhance their performance and reduce the risk of injury.

Maintaining Training During the Season:
A common misconception among athletes is that training only occurs during the off-season. However, it is crucial to maintain and even elevate training efforts during the competitive season. By doing so, athletes can sustain the gains made during the off-season and be better prepared for the demands of their sport. Additionally, maintaining training during the season helps prevent injuries, allows for skill refinement, and ensures a smoother transition into the subsequent season.

Individualized Approach:
Each athlete’s off-season plan will be unique, depending on their sport, current fitness level, and specific goals. Athletes should focus on areas that require improvement or attention, whether it’s building endurance, increasing speed, or refining technique. It is essential not to overwhelm oneself with too many objectives but instead prioritize one or two key areas to work on during the off-season. This approach allows for focused and effective training, leading to noticeable improvements in performance.

Transitioning from Fall Sports:
For athletes transitioning from fall sports to spring sports, it is crucial to gradually reintroduce sport-specific movements and acclimate the body to the demands of the new season. By engaging in shadow movements and low-intensity drills, athletes can ensure that their muscles maintain familiarity with the required movements, reducing the risk of injury and avoiding a significant decline in performance.

Conclusion:
The off-season is a critical period for athletes to prepare for the upcoming spring sports season. By setting clear goals, creating a well-structured training plan, and focusing on individual needs and objectives, athletes can maximize their training efforts and improve their performance. It is imperative to remember that training should not be limited to the off-season but must be maintained throughout the competitive season to sustain progress and prevent injuries. By following these guidelines, athletes can achieve success and excel in their respective sports.

 

December 16, 2023

Sports Specialization, Is It Killing Athleticism?

Sport Specialization & The Regression of Athleticism

The Impact of Sports Specialization on Athleticism: A Disturbing Trend

Sports specialization and the regression of athleticism has become an ongoing concern in today’s youth sports culture. Coaches Eric Johnson and Aaron Thigpen discuss the lack of overall athleticism among athletes specializing in a specific sport. This article explores the reasons behind this trend and offers insights on how to address it.

Why Aren’t Our Kids as Athletic as Previous Generations?
Over the past three decades, there has been a noticeable decline in the athleticism of young athletes. Coach Johnson reminisces about his childhood, where kids played freely in the streets, engaging in various physical activities that developed their athleticism. However, today’s children are more sedentary and lack the basic movement skills necessary for athleticism. This decline is attributed to the lack of unstructured play and the increasing organization of youth sports.

The Importance of Play and Imagination:
Coach Thigpen emphasizes the role of play and imagination in developing athleticism. In the past, children would mimic their favorite athletes’ movements, fostering a deep connection to their sport. However, today’s youth are not engaged in watching sports or attending live games, which hinders their ability to aspire and develop their own movement patterns. The lack of imagination and play contributes to the decline in overall athleticism.

The Impact of Limited Movement Skills on Specialization:
Specialization in a specific sport without developing foundational movement skills can negatively affect athletes. Many young athletes are unable to perform basic movements such as lunges, squats, and balancing on one foot. This lack of movement proficiency impairs their ability to transfer force and perform essential skills in their chosen sport. Consequently, athletes may struggle with balance, coordination, and injury prevention.

The Role of Skill Instruction and Personal Movement Patterns:
While skill instruction is essential for athletes, it should be paired with personal movement exploration. Athletes need to blend proper instruction with their own movement idiosyncrasies. However, with the focus primarily on lessons and organized practices, young athletes are not encouraged to explore and develop their unique movement patterns. This lack of personal connection to their sport hampers their overall athleticism.

Balancing Specialization and Play:
Parents play a crucial role in balancing specialization and play. Although specialization is important for skill development, it should be complemented by unstructured play and exploration. Encouraging children to participate in derivative sports, such as wiffle ball or three flies up, allows them to develop movement patterns and enhance their athleticism. Additionally, parents should expose their children to live games and encourage them to watch sports to create a deeper connection and inspire athletic aspirations.

Conclusion:
The decline in overall athleticism among specialized young athletes is a concerning trend. It is crucial for parents, coaches, and athletes to prioritize unstructured play, imagination, and exploration alongside skill instruction. By blending proper instruction with personal movement patterns, athletes can develop a well-rounded athleticism that will benefit them in their chosen sport. It is time to revive the importance of play and foster a deeper connection to sports, ensuring the development of truly skilled and athletic individuals.

May 21, 2021

The Awkward Athlete

THE AWKWARD ATHLETE
by Aaron Thigpen, Gamespeed Sports
May 2021
 
 
A few years ago I was approached by two parents. They had a thirteen year old son who had dreams of playing varsity baseball. They were actually apologetic about their sons athletic abilities. I asked them to bring him in for an Evaluation. Turns out they were right. The lanky, awkward kid was uncoordinated, clumsy and off balance in every thing he did. The most basic movements were a struggle and he looked on the verge of injury in most cases.
 
 
After the evaluation I informed them of my thoughts and suggested they bring him in twice a week, commit fully to the process and lets see where it goes over the next four years.
 
 
Fast forward four years later, my baby giraffe had become a strapping 6ft 200lb athlete. I had the joy of watching this young man pitch a complete game in the finals of the NCS Championships (90mph fastball) and hit the game winning RBI off the center field wall (400ft) of the Oakland A’s stadium.
 
 
My baby giraffe had become a King of the jungle!!!
 
 
This young man went on to play division I baseball at one of the countries top programs.
 
He did not begin with the physical abilities that most would expect, BUT he possessed the most important traits of any successful athlete:
 
  • A desire to be not good, but great
  • The humility and ability to listen, take direction and to learn
  • To not be bothered by what others thought of him (tough skin)
  • Patience and perseverance
 
More importantly his parents had the same traits!!!
 
 
His situation is not uncommon, todays kids, don’t play, rarely have PE, and primarily participate in structured sports. So the body tries to “organize” itself the best way it can. This can lead to the adaptation of improper movement patterns resulting in poor performance and injury.
 
 
All of this contributes to a small and narrow repertoire of movement skills. Add to this mother nature and the changing body and you see an army of “Bambi’s” on the playing fields and courts.
 
The most common conversation I have goes something like this:
 
…..he/she had a growth spurt and grew six inches over the summer and everything went haywire….
….just a few months ago they were one of the most athletic on the team now….
….my sons grown two shoes sizes and everything is off….
….my daughter struggles to keep up and looks like she may hurt herself at any moment…
….everyone has passed my athlete by…..
 
 
You get the picture. Well there is hope, although some movement patterns are innate (nature) most skills needed in sports must be learned and practiced (nurtured).
 
 
As a parent, what can you do to get your child on the right track?
 
  1. Don’t be too hard on your athlete. Confidence plays a big part in their being comfortable with their bodies and abilities.
  2. Encourage your kid to play. Play is when exploration can happen. The opportunity to learn to move in non competitive, judgmental environments is crucial to athletes getting to know their bodies.
  3. Play multiple sports or athletic activities, some recreational and some competitive. Keep at least a 1 to 1 ratio (recreational to competitive) I strongly suggest 2 to 1.
  4. Find a professional who can provide structured programming and instruction to safely and properly move from gross to refined motor and athletic skills.
 
 
Some activities I strongly suggest are gymnastics, martial arts, and any form of dance. They create body awareness, balance, strength and coordination that can be the foundation for other sport activities.
 
 
An alarming number of kids have poor motor skills, lack physicality and are ill prepared for highly competitive sports. Regardless of where they start you can change their trajectory with the right approach.
 
 
 
Have an “Awkward Athlete”? Contact coach Aaron Thigpen of Gamespeed Sports . For the past 27 years he’s been transforming athletes into their optimal selves.
April 4, 2021

Dealing with Frustration

Handling frustrations is one of those things that takes a while,  it’s a skill that you have to develop in sports. Parents need to help your athlete cope with frustration.

  • Let them know that it’s momentary. Remind them just to move on and engage the next moment.
  • Frustration teaches you patience. Let them know its a natural part of the learning and growing process.
  • Frustration is not all negative it teaches you how to have a strong mindset. It can build character.
  • Being frustrated can teach you to how to get into that Zen moment, that zone, to  overcome those frustrations through concentration.

Parents don’t be too quick to give them the answers, instead of doing that, let them work through the process, coach them but let them give you the answers of how they feel so they can learn how to be resilient and learn how to make their own decisions, learn how to work through their frustrations.

Check out Dealing With Frustration  on the “The Brand” & “The Source” podcast show.

By Aaron Thigpen, Gamespeed Sports March 2021

April 4, 2021

How To Avoid Return to Play Injuries

How To Avoid Return to Play Injuries

by Aaron Thigpen, Gamespeed March 2021

Well, were entering a new stage with sports and the corona virus. As athletes return to play they need to understand the risks involved. Its a given for those who are unconditioned it will be a difficult but, even for those who have been active, returning to competitive paced activities will bring its challenges. For most its been at least a year since participation in competitive paced play. That’s full throttle throwing, running, jumping, cutting and collisions etc. While they are chomping at the bit  for action, athletes should keep in mind how to “ease” back into competitive form. If I was to use one word to sum up the process I’d say “acclimation”.

Consider doing these things:

Prepare a “ramp up” plan.  That may mean gradually increasing controlled or limited practice as well as playing time.

Have a number of practices where you do go all out before trying it in game time. This will allow you to “test drive” and get your body’s responses.

Be sure to break in any new equipment during practice activities .

Soft tissue injuries like: shoulder, back, ankle, hamstring, calf and knee sprains and strains are the most likely injuries to occur. If you have a history be extra careful to prep these areas and for some wearing protective gear may be a prudent course of action initially.

Drill your most explosive and demanding movements in practice with a progression  of slow, medium and fast (Gamespeed) to identify and make corrections in form and technique.

Dedicate a portion of your practices  to handling fatigue, sloppiness and poor form are likely to occur when your tired.

Be aware of the play of others their poor play can put you at risk. Athletes who are not in shape or prepared to return to play pose a danger to others.  This may sound strange but practice how to fall, inadvertent collisions and trips can cause falling injuries.

Take the time for proper warmup and cool downs. Proper recovery can keep the body ready.

So be careful, return to play after such a long time off should be handled wisely, however its time, go forth and Play!!

Related Podcasts; Competing During Covid Is It Worth It? 

Covid19 & The High School Athlete Before & After

3 Weeks to Fitness Back To Competition

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