2015 Event Information

Event Partners

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

January 2015

Dear Coach,

We are excited to welcome you as we celebrate our twelfth year of the Mohegan Sun World Baseball Coaches’ Convention. Beginning with the first clinic in 2004, we have sought to provide you with the very best in coaching education.

We want this clinic to be something special and we have spent considerable time securing the best clinicians and designing a curriculum that addresses all levels of play and a range of coaching areas. Each year, we seek to improve your clinic experience and this year we've made two major improvements: we've redesigned the event layout to improve traffic flow and we are introducing an event App for your smartphone or tablet to put critical clinic information at your fingertips.

We believe our clinic is more than just three days of coaching instruction; it is a chance to exchange ideas and learn from each other. Our convention staff, exhibitors and guest speakers will be available to you throughout the clinic. Please don’t hesitate to introduce yourself, ask a question or provide your own perspective on the game.

A special thanks goes to the staff and management of the Mohegan Sun - our title sponsor - who have welcomed us and allowed us to use their outstanding facilities and amenities. We also thank our other sponsors for their important support, including: Extra Innings, Rawlings, On Deck Sports, Hitting Guru 3D, Baseball Heaven, Louisville Slugger, Baseball America, Club Diamond Nation, Lux Bond & Green, Jaypro Sports, The Coaches Insider and Geno’s Fastbreak Restaurant. We have a terrific group of exhibitors this year and we encourage you to visit them in the Mohegan Sun Convention Center during the event.

Enjoy the clinic and please take the time during and after this weekend to let us know your thoughts on improving next year’s Mohegan Sun World Baseball Coaches’ Convention. We wish you all the best with your upcoming season and look forward to seeing you in January 2016!

Yours in baseball and coaching,

P.S.: Become a World Baseball Facebook fan and get clinic updates throughout the year.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

WORLD BASEBALL EVENT SCHEDULE

Thursday, January 15, 2015:

Session Times Room 2015 Speaker 2015 Topic

GENERAL EVENT REGISTRATION 4:30 pm - 9:00 pm Convention Center Pre-Function Area

6:15 pm - 7:00 pm Break-Out #1 Steve Trimper Batting Practices that Deliver Game Results

Building a Successful Program -- High School, AAU, Legion & Break-Out #2 Phil Orbe Summer League Defending the Backstop: Break-Out #3 Nick Derba A How-To on Catching Extra Innings Kyle Shiplett MIZUNO PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage

7:15 pm - 8:00 pm Break-Out #1 Nick Ahmed and Chris Podeswa Techniques and Drills to Make Every Infield Play Look Routine

Break-Out #2 Justin Blood Pitcher U! It's a Mentality!

Develop Major League Leadership: Break-Out #3 Dr. Howard Fero Strategies to Lead Your Team from Joe Maddon, Davey Johnson,

John Farrell and Other Baseball Greats Extra Innings Paul Sances RAWLINGS PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage

8:15 pm - 9:00 pm Break-Out #1 Kevin Seitzer Fundamentally Sound Hitting Mechanics

The Art of Being Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable (Drills Break-Out #2 Phil Orbe that provide stressful game-like situations) Scouting Evaluation Techniques To Determine Roles For Your Break-Out #3 Shaun McNamara Players Extra Innings Nick Ahmed and Chris Podeswa DEMO: Everyday Infield Drills -- Making It REAL! Batting Cage Pitching Mechanics Video Session: 9:15 pm - 10:00 pm Break-Out #1 Justin Blood Town-Hall Style - Get Your Questions Answered Preparing Your Player for the Next Level by Winning at This Break-Out #2 Tracy Woodson & Jim Penders Level: An Interactive Discussion on the College Recruiting

Process Break-Out #3

Extra Innings DEMO: Fielding the Circle: Nick Derba Batting Cage Throwing and Bunt Play from Behind the Dish

Outlines for certain sessions may not be included in this package. Program, topics and presenters are subject to change. Attendees must wear their event credentials at all times to access the event. No videotaping of event sessions is allowed.

SAVE 15% AT GENO’S FASTBREAK RESTAURANT: Hungry? Geno’s Fastbreak is offering 15% off all food & beverage purchases for baseball clinic attendees wearing their credentials. Geno’s is located just outside the Convention Center on the 1st floor.

COMPLIMENTARY COFFEE FOR ATTENDEES & EXHBITORS: On Friday morning, complimentary coffee will be served from 7:00 AM – 9:30 AM in the Mohegan Sun Convention Center’s Pre-Function Area while supplies last.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

WORLD BASEBALL EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, January 16, 2015:

Session Times Room 2015 Speaker 2015 Topic

GENERAL EVENT REGISTRATION 7:45 am – 12:00 pm Convention Center Pre-Function Area

8:15 am - 9:00 am Break-Out #1 Scott Stricklin Creating A Championship Culture

Extra Innings Justin Blood DEMO: Pitching Drills to Incorporate the Lower Half Batting Cage Make the Defense Stop You! Run the Bases like Every Hit is an 9:15 am - 10:00 am Break-Out #1 Jim Penders Inside-the-Park Home Run

Break-Out #2 Jack Morris The Pro's and Con's of Pitch Counts

Develop Major League Leadership: Strategies to Lead Your Team Break-Out #3 Dr. Howard Fero from Joe Maddon, Davey Johnson, John Farrell and Other

Baseball Greats (Repeat Session) Extra Innings DEMO: Get An Edge on the Basepaths -- Leads, Tag-ups, Greg DiCenzo Batting Cage Stealing, Delayed Steals & Hit and Run Movement Identifying and Addressing the Most Common Physical 10:15 am - 11:00 am Break-Out #1 Eric Cressey Limitations in Throwers

Break-Out #2 Bruce Hurst Pitching and Hitting the Target vs. Consequences of the Target

The Metrics of Quality At Bats: Break-Out #3 Jim Penders Scoring Runs in the Dead Ball Era Extra Innings Steve Trimper and Nick Derba Hitting Cage Drills that Lead into Batting Practice Batting Cage

11:15 am - 12:00 pm Break-Out #1 Kevin Seitzer Mental Side of Hitting -- Situational & Adjustments

Break-Out #2 Jamie Evans Get Your Pitcher to Throw Harder & Healthier

The Four Fundamentals of Spider Defense (Cut-offs & Relays, Break-Out #3 Tracy Woodson Bunt Def., Rundowns & PFP) Extra Innings Eric Cressey DEMO: A Proper Warm-Up Batting Cage Nehantic/Pequot/ 11:15 am - 1:15 pm Paugusset NEIBA Annual Meeting Rooms 12:00 pm - 1:15 pm EXHIBITOR TIME/LUNCH BREAK

Extra Innings 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm Brian Meehan DEMARINI PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage Extra Innings 12:30 pm - 1:15 pm Dan Rigol LOUISVILLE SLUGGER PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage

1:15 pm - 2:00 pm Break-Out #1 Bob Tewksbury The Mental Game

Break-Out #2 John Szefc Coaching the "Little Things" in Your Daily Practice

Break-Out #3

Extra Innings Tracy Woodson DEMO: Hitting with Less Movement is More Batting Cage

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

WORLD BASEBALL EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, January 16, 2015 (Continued):

Session Times Room 2015 Speaker 2015 Topic

2:15 pm - 3:00 pm Break-Out #1 Torey Lovullo Game Management Keys for All Levels

Break-Out #2 Scott Stricklin Catching 101

The Mental Game: Break-Out #3 Bob Tewksbury An Interactive Question & Answer Session Extra Innings DEMO: Activities to Get Your Pitchers' Throwing Harder & Jamie Evans Batting Cage Healthier Eric Campbell and Dominic Setting Your High School Players Up For Success ON and OFF 3:15 pm - 4:00 pm Break-Out #1 Leone with John Iovino The Field After Graduation Home To Home: Coaching The Bases -- Drills and Strategies Break-Out #2 Torey Lovullo That Will Produce More Runs

Break-Out #3 Steve Trimper Team Defensive Drills to Maximize Practice Time

Extra Innings Steve Sutton EASTON PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage How to Throw the Curve Ball, Master the Change-up & Make 4:15 pm - 5:15 pm Break-Out #1 Bruce Hurst Your Fastball Your Best Pitch

Break-Out #2 John Szefc Developing a Professional Hitting Approach with Drills

Break-Out #3 Mike Leonard Your Team Captains: Team Leadership Matters

Extra Innings DEMO: Identifying and Addressing the Most Common Physical Eric Cressey Batting Cage Limitations in Throwers

5:15 pm - 5:45 pm EXHIBITOR TIME

Extra Innings ShopExtraInnings ZEPP PRODUCT DEMO Batting Cage

TALKING BASEBALL featuring Jack Morris, Bruce Hurst, Kevin 5:45 pm - 7:00 pm Break-Out #1 TALKING BASEBALL Seitzer, Torey Lovullo, Eric Campbell, Dominic Leone and moderated by Ed Randall

Outlines for certain sessions may not be included in this package. Program, topics and presenters are subject to change. Attendees must wear their event credentials at all times to access the event.

No videotaping of event sessions is allowed.

Carry the World Baseball Coaches' Convention with you at all times! Our new app has everything you'll need to enhance your convention experience including a full schedule, floor plan, presenter bios and more!

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

WORLD BASEBALL EVENT SCHEDULE

Saturday, January 17, 2015:

Session Times Room 2015 Speaker 2015 Topic

GENERAL EVENT REGISTRATION 7:45 am – 9:30 am Convention Center Pre-Function Area Nehantic/Pequot/ 8:30 am - 9:15 am John Szefc Developing the Modern Infielder with Drills Paugusset Rooms

Abenaki Room Steve Trimper Black Bear Offensive Drills to Increase Run Production

Building a Youth Pitcher: Shinnecock/Nipmuc Mike Church (YCC Session) Mechanics and Drills that Produce Results! Nehantic/Pequot/ 9:30 am - 10:15 am Jamie Evans Increasing Your Pitcher's Velocity Paugusset Rooms Advanced Catching: Abenaki Room Nick Derba Being the Quarterback on the Field Greg DiCenzo (YCC Developing Aggressive Baserunners to Increase Offensive Shinnecock/Nipmuc Session) Pressure

Schaghticoke Room

Nehantic/Pequot/ Scott Stricklin (YCC Session 10:30 am - 11:15 am Hitting Activities for Players at All Levels Paugusset Rooms Option)

Abenaki Room Mike Leonard Preparation is the Key to a Successful Practice

Steve Trimper (YCC Session Outfield Play: Techniques & Drills to Develop Your Last Line of Shinnecock/Nipmuc Option) Defense

Schaghticoke Room

Nehantic/Pequot/ 11:30 am - 12:15 pm Bruce Hurst How to Develop the Proper Pitcher's Mindset Paugusset Rooms The Art of Being Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable (Drills Abenaki Room Phil Orbe that provide stressful game-like situations) Catching Fundamentals: Shinnecock/Nipmuc Mike Church (YCC Session)) Drills/Techniques/Preparation

Outlines for certain sessions may not be included in this package. Program, topics and presenters are subject to change. Attendees must wear their event credentials at all times to access the event. No videotaping of event sessions is allowed.

The event would like to recognize Jaypro Sports for providing the bleachers for the Extra Innings Batting Cage sessions. Visit Jaypro’s booth to learn more about all their baseball and softball product offerings.

SAVE 15% AT GENO’S FASTBREAK RESTAURANT: Hungry? Geno’s Fastbreak is offering 15% off all food & beverage purchases for baseball clinic attendees wearing

their credentials. Geno’s is located just outside the Convention Center on the 1st floor.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

2015 Mohegan Sun World Baseball Coaches' Convention Exhibitor Booth Locations

Company/Exhibitor Name Exhibitor Booth # Company/Exhibitor Name (cont.) Exhibitor Booth #

3D Hitting Guru 309 & 408 Jaypro Sports 91 Air Structures American Technologies 506 Keith's II Sports 307 AllBallPro by Sportworx 919 Lee County Sports Development 904 Anaconda Sports/LIDS Team Sports 209 & 308 Louisville Slugger 301 & 400 Anthem Sports 910 Marucci Sports 92 Ball-Bandit 404 Mercury Sports 702 Bangerz Sportz Eye Protection 402 Mizuno 609 & 708 Baseball America 207 New Balance Baseball 100 Baseball Heaven Sports Complex 108 New Britain Rock Cats T5 Batting Cages USA 915 New England Collegiate Baseball League 205 Beam Clay/Partac Peat Corporation 503 OC Sports 507 Beaver Bat Company 302 On Deck Sports 101 BIG Vision Sports Complex 504 Planet Fastpitch 203 - 207 Bownet Sports 911 & 913 Play In School 208 Brent's Uniform Factory 90 PLDGIT.com 502 BSN Sports 914 Rawlings 900 & 901 Connecticut American Legion Baseball 902 Rawlings Stars and Stripes 87 Connecticut Sportsplex 405 Ripken Baseball 702A Connecticut Tigers T7 Rob Monte Art 712 Cooperstown Bat Company 605 Schutt Sports 201 & 300 DC Sports 916 Showcase Trading Cards 406

Diamond Nation 702B SkillScore 98 Diamond Sports 401 Spalding 601 & 700 Disney Baseball & Softball 907 Sports at the Beach 94 & 95 Dream Bat Company 403 Sports Team Hotels 305 E.L.umber Co. 505 Sports Tutor 509 & 608 Easton Sports 905 & 906 Stadium System 602 Extra Innings Pre-Function Strike Out Strippz 501 & 600 Fastpitch Nation/CT USSSA Fastpitch Swingaway 89

Fastpitch on Line Showcase 96 Swivel Vision 603 Frank Herzog Photography 97 & 97A The Leadership Doc 606 Frank's Sport Shop 611 Tucci Lumber 86 GameChanger 903 Turface Athletics 409 & 508 GamePlan by Everysport.net 99 TYRUS Baseball Products 93 GloveWhisperer 304 USA Elite Training 94 & 95 Goose Grease Creams 407 VarsityGirl.Net 86 & 91 HeavySwing 613 Wilson/DeMarini/ATEC 206 Historic Dodgertown 306 Worth Stars and Stripes 88 Holloway Sportswear 500 X-Grain Sportswear 607 Hot Dot 604 Zephyr Hats 303 HUMANeX Ventures 107

We thank you in advance for supporting our clinic exhibitors and encourage you to patronize them throughout the year. You can find a 2015 exhibitor listing on our website at www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com (on the Exhibitor Page) which includes their website address.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 9:15AM – 10:00AM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Batting Practices that Deliver Game Results PRESENTER: Steve Trimper, Head Coach, University of Maine

 HITTING POINTS OF EMPHASIS  Balance stance  Grip  Bat, head and hand position  Utilize the top hand  Swing Plane  Weight transfer  Finish

 HAVE A PHILOSPHY  Gap to gap  2 strike hitting: put pressure on defense  Keeping the ball out of the air  Play with the weather conditions  Use scouting info, charts, pitcher/catcher tendencies

 CAGE DRILLS  Top hand drill o Works extension o Swing plane o Balance o Overall strength drill o “Finish and hold” the drill

 Wide Base, 2 hand drill o Same as top hand, but using both hands o Works contact point, yet same finish needs to be accomplished  High tee/BP drill o Helps with top hand extension o Reinforces staying in base o Works hands above the baseball

 ON FIELD BATTING PRACTICE  Around the World drill: ROUNDS o 2 strike approach: oppo middle hole o Oppo gap with the right pitch o Pull side gap o Let it Eat! Note*: Ball should be getting higher as you work to pull side  Hits Round Batting Practice o Competition days o Outstanding for your defense o Teaches bat control for hitter to look for defensive “holes” o Forces hitters to focus quickly

 BLACK BEAR BP o Works game like situations for both offense and defense o Huge base running drill o Covers run downs and relays/cuts 1. 2 runners at 3rd, 2 runners at 1st , 1 out situation 2. Hitter: score the run! Get to 2nd! 3. 3rd base runner: react to ball and defense 4. 1st base runner: always going to 3rd, pick up coach

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 6:15PM – 7:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Building a Successful Program -- High School, AAU, Legion & Summer League PRESENTER: Phil Orbe, Head Coach, NECBL Mystic Schooners & Montville High School

I. Absolutes a. Surround yourself with good people b. Outwork everyone else c. Commit to your players and their development – FFAB

II. Calendar of Events (high school season) a. June – December: Pick up the pieces, lay the foundation and set the tone 1. Exit meetings 6. Off Season Conditioning 2. Inventory 7. Orders 3. Go watch your guys 8. Staff 4. College visits 9. Player Preseason Meeting 5. Academic schedules 10. Get Better

b. January - Mid March: 1. Off Season conditioning 6. Conditioning Competition 2. Preseason Sit Downs 7. Field Clean Up 3. Coaching Clinics 8. Youth Clinics 4. Early Roster Decisions 9. Pitchers and Catchers Week 5. Coaches Meeting 10. Preseason Parent Meeting

c. End of March: Preseason Practice 1. Organized Schedule 4. Video 2. Conditioning Goals 5. Scrimmages 3. Program’s Philosophies 6. Checklist

d. April and May – The Season 1. Games – MANAGE and coach 2. Practices – COACH and manage

e. Late May and June Postseasons

1. Conference Tournament vs. State Tournament

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 6:15PM – 7:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: Defending the Backstop: A How-To on Catching PRESENTER: Nick Derba, Assistant Coach, University of Maine

5 ESSENTIALS TO BEING A CATCHER THE FUNDAMENTALS

 Receiving  Blocking  Blocking o Body position  Controlling the staff and flow of game . Leg placement,  Throwing shoulder move, chin  Offensive o Be a pillow . Three schools of thought THE STANCE  Gain ground, straight down, lose ground  Different types of stances (Posada/Molina) o Drills  Flexibility . Roll drill  Target Presentation . Fungo drill o Thumb to 1 o’clock and glove relaxation . Rapid fires o Where to set up . Oh no’s  Sign giving o Glove placement o Knee direction o Upper body posture  Throwing o Awareness of surroundings (hitter, o Incorporating receiving into the throw baserunners, fielders) o Dealing with the hitter and throwing o Transfer keys  No one on base . Pocket to shoulder o Athletic base o Footwork to second o Comfort o Footwork to first o Mind set o Footwork to third o Shoulder, foot placement o Drills  Runners on . Quick toss o Athletic base/foot placement . Pick and throw o Shoulders and head placement . Roll drill o Mind set . Fungo drill  Super blocking stance . Double batter drill o Foot placement

o Mind set

o Pros/Cons

 Super throw stance  Fielding the bunt o The rock o Working to gain vision through the bunt and o Pros/Cons making the right call

o Bunt to third base, throwing to first, second and THE FUNDAMENTALS third

o Bunt to pitcher, throwing to first, second and third  Receiving o Bunt to first, throwing to first, second and third o Glove, hand, eye o Drills

. Bare hand . Rapid fire . Tri-fecta drill  Fielding the blocked/dropped third strike . Receiving off of machines

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 7:15PM – 8:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Techniques and Drills To Make Every Infield Play Look Routine PRESENTER: Nick Ahmed, Current MLB Shortstop, Arizona Diamondbacks Chris Podeszwa, Assistant Coach, University of Connecticut

I. Ready Position A. Mental – (focus / be in tune!) 1. Understand the situation 2. Expect it / Want it! B. Physical 1. Pre-pitch movement 2. Feet (on your toes) 3. Knees (slightly bent / too low = too slow) 4. Chest up / Head up 5. Eyes (focus on hitting area = catchers mitt)

II. Fielding Game Plan (Move Feet – Play Thru The Ball – Attack) A. Quick Feet (Around and Through the ball) B. Glove & Glove side foot to the ball (Why?) C. Solid Base (Stay low through the ball) D. Momentum towards target (More accurate throws / More on it!) E. Under control (Make the routines / Rhythm)

III. Drills A. SHORT HOP DRILL (Middle players together, Corner players together) 1. Soft hands

2. Step to the ball (Turn in between hops into short hops) 3. Backhands & Crossover Step B. WALL DRILL 1. Crossover (explode & attack) 2. Around & Through (Smother w/ glove side shoulder) 3. Figure eight (Quickness & Endurance) C. FIGURE EIGHT (Double Plays) 1. Receiving a. Get to the bag (Athletic position) b. Hands @ 9 & 3 (Square up to feeder) c. Always anticipate a bad feed d. Load, balance, direction e. Get out of baseline f. Short stride. (Get feet down, get rid of it) 2. Feeds a. Low to high b. Clear glove c. Glove side shoulder high d. Communication

IV. Things to think about A. Pre-pitch movement/ 1st step Jab or crossover/ Double Play Flips - Underhand or backhand?./ Covering the base on steal attempt – verbals / B. Pick off signs / Run downs – Rotation / 1st & 3rd defense/ Bunt coverage/ C. Relays & cuts / Double cut & Trailer / communication / slow rollers – ground ball priority 3B or pitcher / depth / play the line/ know the pitch / location / D. Speed of runners / Wind / sun / etc.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 7:15PM – 8:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Pitcher U! It's a Mentality! PRESENTER: Justin Blood, Head Coach, University of Hartford

What is Pitcher U?

 An identity  What we do and how we do it o Energy and effort with direction / Taking in information o Live it, breathe it, believe it

Toughness vs. Confidence

 Subtle differences  Confidence level giveth and taketh away  Expose fears o Little voice and warm gut  Player examples

Build in to Routines

 Player Control o Throwing programs – Demand focus! o Strength and Conditioning o PFP’s o Arm Care o Baseball IQ

In Game

 Body Language  Controlling Tempo  Attacking Strike Zone o Use your last pitch  Controlling running game o Game before the game

“Blue collar” vs. Good Arm

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 7:15PM – 8:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: Develop Major League Leadership: Strategies to Lead Your Team from Joe Maddon, Davey Johnson, John Farrell and Other Baseball Greats PRESENTER: Dr. Howard Fero, Leadership Expert, Author, Professor, and Consultant

1. Find Your Passion - Be passionate about your cause and let others see your excitement.

2. Lead by Example - Set the tone for your organization and work with your team to throw the right pitch.

3. Earn Respect - For yourself, for those around you, and for the organization you are a part of. If you want others to follow your lead then you need to show them you can be trusted.

4. Know Your People - Learn the different ways each of your teammates is inspired and under what conditions they work best. Once you know this you can help them to succeed.

5. Cultivate Relationships - Get to know those around you on a deeper level so that they will want to work their hardest for you and your organization.

6. Support Your People - Let those around you know that you are loyal to them and will go to bat for them whenever necessary.

7. Communicate Effectively - Be clear with your message and listen closely when spoken to.

8. Know Your Game - Know your business, whatever it is. Become an expert in your domain.

9. Foster Teamwork - Teams which work together are stronger than individuals working alone. Create an environment where people will follow your lead and all exhibit the bases we have identified...when you do that the team will work together.

10. Create a Winning Culture - Keep a focus on the short term, day to day goals, but always be mindful of the end goal, winning the season, the big contract, and being a leader in your industry.

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 8:15PM – 9:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Fundamentally Sound Hitting Mechanics PRESENTER: Kevin Seitzer, Current MLB Hitting Coach, Atlanta Braves

SETUP 1. Bat size-whip action but not too heavy; Plate coverage-able to reach outside corner in set up position. 2. Stance- feet parallel/even with home plate and at shoulder width (base stealing/defensive position) 3. Weight on balls of feet; Knees slightly bent. 4. Back knee position, stays slightly bent, never straightens or bends all the way through swing. 5. Head/eyes- head is upright, eyes follow ball to bat, don’t turn head at contact. 6. Shoulders stay parallel to ground all the way through swing; Bat wrap/angle, not passed head toward the pitcher. 7. Grip- loose, knuckles may line up but not necessary if still able to whip bat and swing down and through the ball. 8. Back elbow up or down doesn’t matter unless elbow is too far up and causes a dip or lack of whipping action. 9. Hand position is back or near launch position outside armpit at shoulder height. 10. Tension free from waist up, tight stomach/loose hands all the way through swing, this keeps bat head in the zone longer and increases power, should attack at 90 % effort, this helps keep tension from entering into swing. 11. Weight distribution- perfect balance at start and finish of every swing – STRONG LEGS. 12. Load, weight shift/stride, head on same plane, bug squish, don’t talk about hips unless it’s “be aggressive with the back hip” as you swing; Heel position on bug squish is always up at finish, not down---crucial.

SWING 1. Begin swing by loading: slightly gliding back with your hips by picking the front foot up and putting it down as hands go back slightly or gliding back with your back hip sliding slightly toward the catcher. MUST KEEP SHOULDERS LEVEL...not too big, not too small...not twisting at the waist. 2. Make sure the “hands going back” starts load by “the hands pull the body back” (hands should not move after load). 3. Hand load is short, not big, so the hands need to be back outside the armpit. 4. Front shoulder closed-staying on pitcher; Body starts to “weight shift” back to balanced position w/ hands starting the swing. 5. Swing and bug squish/ back hip come at exactly the same time on every swing. 6. Swing takes front shoulder out- hands coming forward must start the swing, not the front shoulder. 7. Swing path, down and through the ball...”NOT LEVEL” (a level swing is an upper cut), inside the ball, hands/knob of the bat travel between the body and line of the ball with hands loose past the back armpit to stay short (this will feel like a “push” to start). Drive the knob inside and let the bat head come through...DON’T EMPHASIZE “Get the head out, throw the hands, throw the head, etc”...this causes “jam shots” and dribblers off the end of the bat. 8. Stay inside the ball...RH hitters’ approach should be to aim for area between the pitcher and second baseman...LH hitters aim for area between the pitcher and shortstop...”MAKE THE BALL GO THERE” is your thinking. Point of contact will dictate where the ball goes. (Sometimes they will be early. Sometimes they will be late) 9. Contact deeper in zone- the reason we do the above is to teach hitters to make contact deeper in the zone which is the only way to be a good breaking ball and off speed hitter. 10. The whole key to hitting off speed pitches is “staying closed” with the front shoulder, letting the ball break and get deeper in the strike zone, then trying to make the ball go through the middle or opposite field. 11. Extension, can happen after contact or on contact, both arms may be bent at contact. ( talk about staying through the ball). 12. Shoulders stay parallel to the ground at all times, don’t let back shoulder dip under the ball, stay above the ball at all times with back shoulder- don’t let it collapse. “If you’re late, let yourself be late” and hit the ball foul...don’t panic to catch up! 13. Don’t bend at the waist reaching for a pitch away, stand tall, sometimes have to break this rule on tough pitches down and away in order “to stay on it, stay through it, and don’t leave it” all the way through the swing. 14. Finish with a good bug squish- heel up high with weight on balls of feet not the toe and back lined up with the pitcher. 15. EMPHASIZE HOLDING ON WITH 2 HANDS on the finish to stay short to the ball BUT they need to finish with both elbows bent/hands behind the neck to stay loose through the swing...(hitters may release on pitches away and pitches they are fooled on)

FINISH 1. Don’t jump; don’t rush...DON’T BE LATE ON YOUR FASTBALL to make it go through the middle. 2. Better to start too soon and wait than start late and have to muscle to catch up. (Don’t talk about “get the front foot down sooner”...start load sooner/start weight shift sooner/start the swing sooner/just don’t be late! 3. Let it all happen- don’t force the swing; Don’t panic, let the ball go foul if you start late, no “911” emergency swings. 4. Know the strike zone, but never ever yell at a kid for swinging at a bad pitch, encourage him to swing at a better pitch next time. If you yell, you will take his aggressiveness away. 5. Remember- perfect balance every swing on the finish...STRONG BASE. www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 8:15PM – 9:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: The Art of Being Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable (Drills that provide stressful game-like situations) PRESENTER: Phil Orbe, Head Coach, NECBL Mystic Schooners & Montville High School

I. Philosophy a. Practices > Game i. Structure your practices to simulate game situations/drills ii. Coaching vs. managing iii. “If you can dodge a wrench, you can dodge a ball” - Patches O’Houlihan

b. Intensity breeds Confidence i. It is not fair to treat everyone the same – expectations must differ ii. Young people are resilient – challenge them iii. Confidence comes from outworking people

II. Drills a. Offensive Focus Drills i. Base Running Drill ii. Hit Run / Bunt Drill

b. Defensive Focus Drills i. Circle - infielders ii. Out and In iii. Swirl – PUP iv. Lay Out – I/O v. Repetition, Repetition, Repetition

c. Pitching – Bullpens i. Power pens ii. Zone Busters

d. Team Drills i. Batting Practice – not pregame ii. Small Ball (infielders only) iii. Hit Game www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 8:15PM – 9:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: Scouting Evaluation Techniques To Determine Roles For Your Players PRESENTER: Shaun McNamara, Current MLB Scout, New York Mets

The Importance of Knowing Your Own Players

1. POSITION PLAYERS

 Can he hit?! If player can hit he will find a position  Balance, swing path, bat speed, set up  Feel for hitting  Power  Speed  Strength and development  Basic set-up adjustments  Pitch recognition

 Finding a Position

Infield:  Body type, hands agility/range, body control, transfer/arm strength, instincts/game clock

Outfield:  Routes, jumps, speed to cover, arm strength, baseball intelligence

Catcher:  Hands/receiving, agility, feet, quickness, transfer, arm strength, leadership qualities

 Discuss importance of repetitions at positions, instincts

 Value of Versatility  What positions are interchangeable/where else on field can you develop a player

2. PITCHERS

 Pitching evaluation absolutes  Arm action: Clean, smooth, loose, good extension; wrist wrap, stab, cuts off, full of effort

 Delivery: Repeatable over time, in line, use of lower half, loose, easy; full of effort, off-line, thrower/slinger

 Repertoire: Out-pitch, fastball (arm strength); Secondary arsenal – how many does a SP/RP own?

 Command/control - and how they differentiate

 Pitchability: Feel for pitching, knows who he is, game manager

 Importance of establishing roles – in-game and in-practice preparation  Staying healthy; preparing the correct way

 Moderate delivery tweaks, pitches/grips

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 9:15PM – 10:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Pitching Mechanics Video Session: Town-Hall Style - Get Your Questions Answered PRESENTER: Justin Blood, Head Coach, University of Hartford

Video Pros/Cons

 Simplify  What sense is more important?  What to do with the information

Focal Points

 What to look for? o Load o Hand Separation o Maintaining Load o Release

Open Analysis

 Kyle Gauthier  Jake Mellin  Tyler Mitchell  Jake Regula

Problem Identified – Now Fix It

 Drills o Rhythm and Load o Rhythm/Load/Stride  Playing Catch

Video Apps

 Tools you can use

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 9:15PM – 10:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Preparing Your Player for the Next Level by Winning at This Level: An Interactive Discussion on the College Recruiting Process PRESENTER: Tracy Woodson, Head Coach, University of Richmond Jim Penders, Head Coach, University of Connecticut

 This Level vs. Next Level o This Level

o Next Level

 Definition of Winning o WIN – What’s Important Now

o Why Does Winning Matter to Decision Makers at the Next Level?

o Let the Decision Makers Make the Decision

 There is a Level for You at the Next Level in Baseball

 Why is the “Orphan” a Good Recruit?

 Be Invested

 On Campus Camps and Clinics

 All-Star Games vs. Showcases/Pro Tryouts

 How Do I Choose a School/Program?

o Questions for the Coach

o Questions Asked to High School Players

o Weeding Through the Nonsense

o The Full Ride (aka The Unicorn) . So Much Misinformation About Baseball Scholarships

. Financial Aid (Academic/Need-Based)

. Recruited Non-Scholarship Player

. Walk-On

 College or Pro Ball?

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 8:15AM – 9:00AM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Creating A Championship Culture PRESENTER: Scott Stricklin, Head Coach, University of Georgia

It Starts at the Top!

“They won’t care until they know you do.”

Have a Plan!

“A goal without a plan is just a wish.”

Attention to Detail!

“Tiny details imperceptible to us decide everything.”

Do Your Job!

“My job depends on you doing your job… and vice versa.”

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Thursday, January 15, 2015, 9:15AM – 10:00AM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Make the Defense Stop You! Run the Bases Like Every Hit is an Inside-the-Park Home Run PRESENTER: Jim Penders, Head Coach, University of Connecticut

 Practice Makes Perfect

 Philosophy

 Home to First Base

 First Base Coach

 Third Base Coach & Runner at First

 First to Second

 First Base Coach With Runner at Second Base

 Third Base Coach With Runner at Second Base

 Second to Third

 Third Base Coach With Runner at Third

 Third to Home

 3 Lefts + A Couple of Coaches That Aren’t Flashing Yellows = 1 Run

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 10:15AM – 11:00AM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Identifying and Addressing the Most Common Physical Limitations in Throwers PRESENTER: Eric Cressey, Baseball Strength & Conditioning Expert, Cressey Performance Founder

 Baseball Training Culture

 Opportunity #1: Appreciating Joint Hypermobility

 Why does one feel “tight?”

 Laxity Considerations

 Programming Considerations: Strength Training

 Opportunity #2: Gain active control of external rotation.

 “Fake” Lay-Back

 Opportunity #3: Individualize the management of scapular control.

 One thing we do know…

o Takeaways:

 Opportunity #4: Establish core control during arm care.

 Action Items

 Assess, don’t assume!

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 10:15AM – 11:00AM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Pitching and Hitting the Target vs. Consequences of the Target PRESENTER: Bruce Hurst, Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame Pitcher & Pitching Coach for China's World Baseball Classic Team

• What is the Target?

• What are the Consequences?

• What we See when we Pitch?

• Developing a Good Pre-Pitch Routine

• Hitting Target Not Missing Bats

• A Little About Confidence

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 10:15AM – 11:00AM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: The Metrics of Quality At Bats: Scoring Runs in the Dead Bat Era PRESENTER: Jim Penders, Head Coach, University of Connecticut

I. 1973 – 2014 Division I College Baseball Statistical Trends a. 1973 (last year of wood) b. 2014 – similar numbers II. UConn Huskies Trends a. 2010 b. 2014 III. The Definition of Insanity IV. What is Different a. Personnel b. Pay to Play Influence c. Showcase Phenomenon d. Average Fastball Climb e. Defense f. Coaches game calling g. Pitching Depth h. Fear factor V. Blending Philosophy With Personnel a. Hard contact b. QAB c. Free 90’s d. Charting systems VI. Pay to Play a. Individualistic practice and play b. Less mental training, cross-sport training, team “buy in”, meaningful games c. Marketing>Winning d. Praise what we preach as coaches e. Empowering your offensive player VII. Showcase Phenomenon a. Altering the important measurements b. WIN VIII. Average Fastball Climb a. Pitch ID, patterns, and anticipation are at premium b. Video, charting, advantage counts, zone awareness practice, drilling, communication IX. Pitching Depth a. UF-UConn illustration b. The art of adjustments in the box – one pitch at a time X. Coaches Game Calling a. Thinking in box (is it an advantage or disadvantage) b. Reports, charts, video are more pitcher-centric than hitter-centric c. What is “Smart Aggressive” XI. Fear Factor a. Confidence begets more confidence and vice versa b. More strikes, decrease of exit velocity XII. Conclusion

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 11:15AM – 12:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Mental Side of Hitting -- Situational & Adjustments PRESENTER: Kevin Seitzer, Current MLB Hitting Coach, Atlanta Braves

1. Look for fastball middle in to away till you have a strike (0-0, 1-0, 2-0, 3-1 counts) to hit through the middle or right center. Don’t be LATE!

2. After one strike, look to hit the same fastball and any off speed pitch for a strike through the middle (0-1, 1-1, 2-1).

3. After two strikes, stay with the same plan and battle covering the whole plate thinking more opposite field.

4. Stay aggressive, but under control, stay within yourself...think base hit, not TOO MUCH

5. Know the strike zone, learn the strike zone, discipline yourself to swing at good pitches to drive but don’t be late on your fastball- aggressive. ALL GOOD HITTERS GET JAMMED & SWING AT BAD PITCHES SOMETIMES.

6. Don’t swing at the pitcher’s pitch til 2 strikes- STAY AGGRESSIVE

7. Don’t panic, DON’T WORRY, DON’T DOUBT, and HAVE FUN! The game is FUN! ALWAYS...win or lose...there is ALWAYS TOMORROW! It’s NOT WORTH IT to be miserable.

8. Don’t be afraid to hit with 2 strikes or with men in scoring position...EVER!

9. Be confident- the pitcher is scared, you’re the man! It’s easy to be confident when you’re hot...always know you can hit...today you might get 5 hits!

10. Don’t be afraid to fail...don’t be afraid to be embarrassed.

ALWAYS REMEMBER...THE GAME IS HARD

11. Have fun competing.

12. If you’re not having fun...find another sport.

More Hitting Thoughts:

Situational Hitting:

Bunting:

Hitting Drills:

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 11:15AM – 12:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Get Your Pitcher to Throw Harder & Healthier PRESENTER: Jamie Evans, Velocity Specialist & Toronto Blue Jays Consultant

The entire body works together #VeloCity focuses on 1 piece: The Throwing Arm

A. Overload/Underload a. Heavy strength

b. Lite speed

B. Accelerator/Decelerator a. Front side is gas pedal

b. Backside Brakes

C. Accommodation and Adaptation

D. Long Toss vs. #VeloCity a. Definition of Insanity

b. Intent

c. Ground Force Production

E. Big Whip and Little Whip

F. Drills a. Knee

b. Weight Transfer

c. Get-After-It

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 11:15AM – 12:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: The Four Fundamentals of Spider Defense (Cut-offs & Relays, Bunt Defense, Rundowns & PFP) PRESENTER: Tracy Woodson, Head Coach, University of Richmond

1. Cut-Offs & Relays

a. “SURE Doubles” a. What is a sure double? b. Read the Outfielders i. In ii. Crossover iii. Drop step b. Infielders Location a. Where do they go? c. Receiving throw a. Hit me Relay Drill d. Where to Relay a. COMMUNICATION is Key

2. Bunt Defense

a. 3 Bunt Defense Plays b. Most Important Part of Bunt Defenses…Pitcher Throw a strike c. Get an Out a. 1 of 27 they are giving you d. Play Catch and Don’t Rush! a. COMMUNICATE

3. Rundowns

a. Must Get Out b. Player with Ball Initiates Throwing Lane…Stay in that Lane!! c. Keep Ball in Hand and Sprint to Runner (Need Runner to Commit) d. Communicate e. Want Runner going to Previous Base if Possible. No Close Plays at Home Plate.

4. PFP - Pitcher’s Fielding Practice

a. Pitchers Get Over…No Hesitation b. Communication Between Pitcher and 1st Baseman c. Drills a. Repetition and Full Speed d. Get an Out

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 1:15PM – 2:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: The Mental Game PRESENTER: Bob Tewksbury, Mental Skills Coach, Boston Red Sox

 Self-Talk o The voice in our heads- “Don’t” , “Can’t”, “Gotta”, “Should”

o Creating awareness

o Trigger words- reframing

o Activity: Journaling

 Imagery o Body doesn’t know difference

o We learn by seeing

o Activity: Write script, practice

 Concentration o Broad external (flashlight) to narrow internal (laser beam)

o Infielders- 4 second game; circle.

o Outfielders- take off glove, move around

o Regaining concentration

o Activity: 100 square grids

 Relaxation o Awareness

o Proper breathing technique

o Implementing into practice

. Hitters- before BP, during BP, hole, on deck, at bat

. Pitchers- bullpen, before 1st pitch of inning, 2-0

o Activity: use in practice and games

Suggested Reading: Harvey Dorfman, Terry Orlick – In Pursuit of Excellence. Ken Ravizza – Heads Up Baseball. Tim Gallowey – Inner Game of Tennis. www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 1:15PM – 2:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Coaching the "Little Things" in Your Daily Practice PRESENTER: John Szefc, Head Coach, University of Maryland

1. Introduction into the ‘importance of the little things’

2. Well documented practice schedule with tasks and timeline

3. Efficiency BP/bunting setup-- three Hack Attack machines, ropes, cones

4. BP plan with rounds (all situations, 2-strike approach, FB/CB machines)

5. Bunting instruction (sacs, safety, squeeze, soft drags/pushes, hard pushes)

6. Base running drills: a. SB techniques off of 1B (versus RHP/LHP-peak point read)--with and without a catcher

b. SB techniques off of 2B with verbal’s from third base coach—with and without a catcher

7. All base reads drill

8. Reads off of third base drill

9. Five crucial characteristics you need to successfully operate within the program: a. Good person

b. Tough person

c. How much do you complain?

d. Get rid of your ego

e. PATIENCE

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 2:15PM – 3:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: Game Management Keys for All Levels PRESENTER: Torey Lovullo, Bench Coach, Boston Red Sox

1. Understanding your audience and who you are teaching a. All concepts change at every age at every level…..Be prepared

b. Keep meetings brief

c. Make learning fun and keep rotations short

i. Practicing with a purpose should require focus and effort

ii. Scouting reports and advance meetings

d. Don’t be afraid to ask for help---It’s ok if you don’t know an answer

i. Relying on coaches

e. Manage the Parents/Agents/Scouts too

2. In game management and strategies a. Play with the talent you have-Avoid the forcing mentality

i. What are your personal preferences---Speed, defense, power bats, power arms

b. Let the “players play”

c. Stay positive----Using the word limitation

3. Know Your in Game Challenges a. Learn your opponent by understanding their habit, strengths and weaknesses

b. Scouting reports should be used as a reference and not a crutch - Helps the team deliver “Body Blows”

c. Embrace the moment and remember to not let the pressure exceed the idea of having fun. This will enable peak performance

d. Post Game evaluation can be done in a group or individually

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 2:15PM – 3:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Catching 101 PRESENTER: Scott Stricklin, Head Coach, University of Georgia

The Set Up Throwing Signal Calling Stance Ball Transfer

Footwork Primary Stance

One Knee

Secondary Stance Transfer Drill

Receiving/Framing Dry Runs 4 Aspects of Framing

In Between Innings

Face Off Blocking Ideal Blocking Position

3 Ball Rapid Fire

Hands Down

Wall Drill Block and Stop

Block and Recover

Bull Pen Cheat Drill

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 3:15PM – 4:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Home To Home: Coaching The Bases -- Drills and Strategies That Will Produce More Runs PRESENTER: Torey Lovullo, Bench Coach, Boston Red Sox

SUCCESSFUL BASERUNNING KEYS

- Correct mindset once you reach base safely-Trying to make a difference

- Putting pressure on the defense by having a High Baserunning IQ. 1. Scouting reports/Pre game meetings

2. Overall field awareness

- Using “Buzz” words to get immediate focus. - - Picking up 3rd base coach for sign and getting correct lead with confidence of at least 9 feet. - - Aggressive secondary lead with athletic stance-Anticipation of ball being put into play. - - Run with your head up and make sure the ball stops you while always practicing good habits

GAMES AND INCENTIVES

- Have players buy into making a difference by creating a contest and providing rewards

1. Advancing 2 bases

2. Balls in the dirt

SUCCESSFUL BASE STEALING KEYS

- Finding a way to get to the next base if you are a basestealer 1. Locate the pitchers hot spot and be aware of it before you get on base by watching video or paying attention from the dugout during the game

2. Catchers “pop time” and accuracy while throwing to bases

3. Understand good running counts and good situations to make attempt

4. Know your limitations and be aware if you are a green, yellow, red runner

- “Stealing” signs to your advantage 1. Peeking in at catcher

2. Opposing coaches signs

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 3:15PM – 4:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: Team Defensive Drills to Maximize Practice Time PRESENTER: Steve Trimper, Head Coach, University of Maine

PRACTICE IDEAS AND DRILLS FOR ALL SEASONS TEAM DRILLS  Great practices revolve around Energy, Organization,  “LIVE LOOK DRILL” and a Vision o Incorporates infielders,  Be a leader, find a leader pitchers, and catchers  Practice like you want the team to play- What is your Work on the goal time of 3.3 seconds combined coaching vision? o Allows base runners to work on SB’s  Deal with Adversity…good teams “peak” because they learn, adapt and grow

UTILIZE YOUR ASSETS:  SEQUENCES o Involves entire team  Facilities: Be creative…Your players will appreciate o Involves many aspects of the live game: tags, relays, your effort and energy cuts, DP’s, GB’s, throws, Communication, etc.  Assistant coaches: develop them o Game speed….players need to concentrate  Video/visual learning

TWO TYPES OF PRACTICES:  Skills and drills – transition from drill to drill at right  DOUBLE PLAY SEQUENCE time and avoid the boredom factor 1. 5-4-3 DP 4. 3-6-1 DP (PITCHER #2)  Game speed and simulation 2. 1-6-3 DP (PITCHER #1) 5. 4-6-3 DP 3. 6-4-3 DP 6. 1-2-3 DP (PITCHER #3) Finish with RF throw to 3b/plate INFIELD: USE THEIR ATHLETIC ABILITY  Look to improve 3 skills: FEET, HANDS, ARM

 Good footwork improves hands

 Work on hand/eye coordination  BUNT SEQUENCE  Throwing: the easiest part of the game to teach st nd 1. Bunt to 3B side with runners on 1 and 2 , double down LF line DRILLS: 2. Bunt to 1B side with runner on 1st, double down RF line - Throwing progression 3. Bunt in front of plate for catcher, throw to plate from CF - Ladder Drills- for middle infielders for DP’s and Tag 4. Squeeze to plate and tag plays around the horn plays - Ladder Drills- for 1st basemen tag plays and picks - 4 corner box drill: four different ways to practice throwing  RUNDOWNS - Square Drills for infielders and outfielders st o No fakes - 1 basemen throws for lefty first moves o Establish a lane - Fungo picks at 1B o Speed pressure - Mini DP’s: GET THE FIRST OUT! o Receiver runs the play…”BALL” call - Plays at the plate  Rundown drill from 1B to 2B, and missed

squeeze play USES OF THE “PITCHING MACHINE” Saves time with team drills  Fly ball priority  Relays and cutoffs  BASE RUNNING CIRCUIT  OF communication/gap drill o Time efficient and with a purpose  Blind drill  Singles circuit - Inf. Single from plate, steal from 1B, steal from 2B, Tag at 3B PITCHERS DRILLS: MAKE IT GAME SPEED  Doubles circuit  Pitchers PFP 3 prong drill - Double from box, H & R at 1B, single to CF  Pitchers Diamond Defense drill from 2B, squeeze at 3B

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 4:15PM – 5:00PM: Breakout #1 TOPIC: How to Throw the Curve Ball, Master the Change-up & Make Your Fastball Your Best Pitch PRESENTER: Bruce Hurst, Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame Pitcher & Pitching Coach for China's World Baseball Classic Team

• Best Tips on How to Throw a Curve

• Best Tips on How to Throw a Change-Up

• Fast Ball… Best Pitch in the Game

• Absolutes

• Two Book Titles: Science of Hitting. The Art of Pitching

• Feel

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 4:15PM – 5:00PM: Breakout #2 TOPIC: Developing a Professional Hitting Approach with Drills PRESENTER: John Szefc, Head Coach, University of Maryland

What is our Approach at the Plate?  Mechanics vs. Approach o In college, most hitters have a swing that is mechanically good enough to compete o Big issue—lack of plan, aggression, competitiveness o Don’t need to be swing guru o Must have an approach/plan/2-strike strategy

. Pretty swing mechanics + bad approach = .250 . Average swing mechanics + great approach = .330

 Our approach is built around three concepts 1. Hunt the fastball away - More pitches are thrown away than in — put the odds in your favor 2. Back up the baseball — see it as long as you can - Good hitters are not afraid to get jammed - Pitch recognition will improve as you see the pitch deeper/longer 3. Swing hard to the middle and let the ball go where it wants - Drive the ball to the middle/oppo gap

 Our 2-strike approach—choke up, on the plate, look away--BATTLE

 Mature Hitter vs. Immature Hitter - Mature: - Looks for the FB away with a middle of the field mindset - Hunts the inside part of the baseball with an aggressive short swing - Stays behind the ball and sees it to the zone with deep connected contact - Immature: - Tries to create power by looking for the FB in and is pre-set to pull - Hooks the ball with a long swing—cheats to pull side - Goes out to get the pitch in front of the plate with arms extended at contact

 Communication – Lingo (create terms that work for you) - Most important thing is getting hitter to FEEL what you are saying - ‘Drive the ball in your oppo gap’ - ‘Work off the inner half of the ball’ - ‘One hopper mode’ - ‘Proper BP rounds’ - ‘Proper pitch recognition—FB efficient, early movement to be on time, hands loaded by release-NOT foot down, see the pitch up or down out of hand’

How We Enforce our Approach  Short Bat Flips  Angle Hack  Two-Headed Monster

Competitions (use mostly situational rounds)  Why we compete  How we compete

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Friday, January 16, 2015, 4:15PM – 5:00PM: Breakout #3 TOPIC: Your Team Captains: Team Leadership Matters PRESENTER: Mike Leonard, Head Coach, Bates College

1. What is your leadership style? a. Authoritarian b. Balance of Power, Associate Head Coach or Assistant c. Democratic Head Coach i. Beware of the “inmates running the asylum”

2. Knowing who you are as a coach a. Coaching Philosophy b. How do you communicate with players? i. Open door ii. What are the limitations for your players?

3. Purpose of team captains/leaders a. Liaison between players and coach b. Model team values c. Set the standard on the field d. Motivator e. Represent the school in campus and community events f. Communicate and organize team events g. Foster team unity

4. Selecting Team Captains a. Players Vote b. Coaches Choose c. Combination

5. How many team captains/leaders? a. Single team captain i. Harvard football b. Dual or Tri Captains c. Captains Council i. One representative from each class

6. Knowing your captains strengths a. Not all leaders are good at everything b. Four categories of team leaders i. Motivator ii. On Field Leader – clutch performer, best player iii. Off Field Moral Standard Setter – A student, respected by school, and community iv. Hardest Worker c. Not every team has all four or needs them

Know yourself as a head coach, know your captains’ strengths, and work together to give the team what it needs to be successful. www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 8:30AM – 9:15AM: Nehantic/Pequot/Paugusset TOPIC: Developing the Modern Infielder with Drills PRESENTER: John Szefc, Head Coach, University of Maryland

1. Develop the Hands, Feet, and Athleticism of the Modern Infielder - Infield throwing program

- Hands drills

- Double play feeds

- Circle catch

- Fungo tags

- Playing clean catch

- V-cut, backhand, forehand fungos

- Double fungo infield in plays at the plate

- Double fungo infield in plays at first base

- All backhands

- Drop ball

- All dives

- 4-hole, 6-hole tweeners

- Slow rollers (two hands together, barehand)

- Single shuffle, double shuffle

- Double plays—every different feed

2. Other Important Infield Points: - Two feet down on time

- MIF relaying signs to corner infielders and OF

- Late movement by pitch

- Protecting the middle and the 4/6 holes

- Taking bad ABs out on defense

- Running the game

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 8:30AM – 9:15AM: Abenaki TOPIC: Black Bear Offensive Drills to Increase Run Production PRESENTER: Steve Trimper, Head Coach, University of Maine

MAJOR PHILOSPHY: Put pressure on defense: Don’t be afraid to fail

BASE RUNNING: One of the most under taught aspects of BUNTING: the game - Three Reasons why you would - Practice during batting practice for live looks bunt: - Utilize BP screens 1. To move a runner into scoring position. (Sacrifice) 2. To get on base. (Drag, Push) 1. Out of the Box Rule 3. To score a run. (Squeeze) - Fly balls get to 2nd base - Grip… Bottom hand middle of tape, top hand at label - Ground balls get to OF grass - Don’t drop the barrel… Use knees to get low pitch - Timing is only thing different for sac, base hit or squeeze 2. First Base:  Sac: Pitcher movement - Primary leads: 3 ½ steps……off set feet like a  Base hit: Separation of hands “sprinter” - Secondary leads: 2 shuffles before action  Squeeze: Point of no return - Keep ball away from pitcher 3. Stealing second base: “7.2 runners can steal 20 bases” - Left handed batter- left foot on ground stepping at - Clear hips with elbow, stay low like an airplane pitcher on contact taking off - Look for tendencies in pitcher SLASH: - Draw out good moves…One way leads - Automatic on crash defenses - Run on off speed counts - Early Square around - Look for lazy catcher with signs - Pitcher point of no return to load - First move on LHP and RH right handed first - Weight on front foot basemen (watch for flip move) - Grip to middle of the tape

4. Stealing third base: COACHING THE BASES: - Walking leads - 1st base coach helps on pick offs - Utilize 3rd base coach- Verbal cues  When trying to see a “LAZY CATCHER” - See grip of pitcher for running pitch  Back door picks from 1st baseman

5. Hit and Run: An aggressive sacrifice (PLAYING FOR - 3rd base coach: A BIG INNING)  Simple, but hidden signs - Coaches…..hitter’s counts…need a strike….NOT  Give signs with runners on the bag WITH 2 OUTS!!!!  Have runner show number of outs - One way lead….do not get picked off  Help runners steal 3rd base - In, out, over  Only help runners with 1st to 3rd and ball to RF - Do not get fooled on INF deke play  Scoring with ball in OF - Pop-up slide OTHER DRILLS: 6. Other base running points: - Tee hit games - Delay steal- extra shuffle step in secondary lead - Ground ball scrimmage - Run and Hit- 3-1 and 3-2 counts… steal the base - Hits games - Fake bunt and Run(Squeeze situation) - Base running circuits: - 2-2-2 running count  Time efficient and with a purpose  Singles circuit SLIDING: - Inf. Single from plate, steal from 1B, steal from - Why we slide 2B, Tag at 3B  Avoid tag, Slow down, Avoid injury  Doubles circuit - Bent leg slide… ”Figure 4” Pop-up slide… Great - Double from box, H & R at 1B, single to CF vision and fastest to move on from 2B, squeeze at 3B - On deck hitters help at home plate - Back door slides - Live reads during batting practice

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 8:30AM – 9:15AM: Shinnecock/Nipmuc TOPIC: Building a Youth Pitcher: Mechanics and Drills that Produce Results! PRESENTER: Mike Church, Diamond Kings Founder & Youth Baseball Instructor

 Keep it simple  Throwing and playing catch from a tiny hill  Go to 20 coaches and you’ll get 20 different philosophies  Manage the process and you’ll get results  Be smart, limit innings and pitches thrown  Make your whole team Pitchers

Step 1 – Rocker Step Step 4 – The Landing/Launch Position  Rocker step only prepares the  Thumbs away back foot to square up against the  Foot lands slightly closed rubber or “hole”  80 percent  Thumbs together, heart high  Hips, shoulders, knees, ankles  Head still lined up with plate  Hips loaded  Looking over shoulder Step 2 – The Pivot  Equal and opposite  Square up the back foot  Start to rotate from the ground up  Against the rubber, hole or mound  Head still Step 5 – Throw and Finish

 Wait for something to happen Step 3 – Leg Lift  Get strong late  Lift with the hip  Between 1 and 2 o’clock  Knee toward second base  Elbow leads the hand  Keep heel close to in-line with  Keep good direction/head still the back leg  Where the head goes the ball  Up, Down, Slide – The “L” goes  Shoulders slightly closed  Wrist action  Head still as possible  Throw into a firm front side  Hands stay heart height  Dynamic balance  Lead with the heel to step 4

DRILLS/NOTES  Duct tape, line in dirt  Rapid fire  Mirror Drills  Rock and go  Socks/Straps  Leg lift balance toss and go  Metronome App  Warmup Target Throwing  Deep Breath  Wrong foot throwing  Visualize  Softball Throws Simon Says  Hold the Weight  Pitches and Grips  Eyes closed  Count to 5

www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 9:30AM – 10:15AM: Nehantic/Pequot/Paugusset TOPIC: Increasing Your Pitcher's Velocity PRESENTER: Jamie Evans, Velocity Specialist & Toronto Blue Jays Consultant

Long-term Pitcher Development program: Set your players up for future success

A. Is Throwing Unnatural?

B. Injuries a. Fatigue

b. Recovery

c. Pitch Smart Guidelines

C. Biological vs. Chronological

D. Long-term vs. Short Term a. Winning vs. Development

i. Little League

ii. High School

iii. College

b. Windows of Training Speed

i. Pre-school

ii. Elementary

iii. High School

iv. Man

E. Genetics vs. 10,000-hour rule

F. Arm speed or Arm Strength

G. Biological vs. Chronological

H. Dominican Republic the Outliers

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SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 9:30AM – 10:15AM: Abenaki TOPIC: Advanced Catching: Being the Quarterback on the Field PRESENTER: Nick Derba, Assistant Coach, University of Maine

What does this mean? Priority: “Make a pitcher believe he has his A stuff when he has his C- stuff.”

Secondary: “Reminding fielders of situation”

Tertiary: “Relaying from bench.”

Making the pitcher believe 1. It starts in the bullpen - Positive body language, verbal cues

2. Working between innings with the pitcher - Understanding the personality, press the right buttons

- Knowing his strengths and weaknesses

Pitching to the situation 1. Setting up - Early in count

- Late in count

- Giving the target

2. Making the pitch call - Reading hitters

- Winning the outer half

- Not Making Adjustment for hitters

- H and R counts

- When to work chase

- Late game pitch calling - Losing oppo gap

- Understanding what the role of each pitcher is, but understanding who they are Eg. Might be a closer, but doesn’t throw hard

Making field aware of situation - LHH, pitcher gets over

- No doubles!!

- Top of the lineup

- Action times

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SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 9:30AM – 10:15AM: Shinnecock/Nipmuc TOPIC: Developing Aggressive Baserunners to Increase Offensive Pressure PRESENTER: Greg DiCenzo, Head Coach, College of the Holy Cross

I. Laying the Foundation Within Your Clubhouse A. Mindset…allowing educated risks on the base-paths

B. Anticipatory vs. Reactionary

C. Recognizing/Valuing the importance of 90 feet

D. Personnel Attributes vs. Team Standards/Goals

II. Opposition Rolodex…understanding the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses A. Arm-strength on the field…watch I/O, opponent’s BP

B. Pitcher-Catcher tendencies

C. Team tendencies (pickoff/rundown efficiency, bunt defense, etc.)

D. Pitcher cues/hot-spots

III. Venue of Game A. Base-paths…grass vs. dirt vs. turf

B. Cut on bases

C. Perimeter measurements

D. OF/IF content

IV. Running the Bases…BID importance at each base A. Home to First

B. Leads at 1B

C. Leads at 2B…aggressive at 2B…not worried about making 1st or 3rd out at 3B

D. Leads at 3B

V. Collaborative Drills for Baserunning Pressure

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SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 10:30AM – 11:15AM: Nehantic/Pequot/Paugusset TOPIC: Hitting Activities for Players at All Levels PRESENTER: Scott Stricklin, Head Coach, University of Georgia

 Setup and Stance

 Tee Work

 One Knee

 Top Hand/Bottom Hand

 Soft Toss

 Behind Toss

 Angle Toss

 Front Toss

 Situational BP

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SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 10:30AM – 11:15AM: Abenaki TOPIC: Preparation is the Key to a Successful Practice PRESENTER: Mike Leonard, Head Coach, Bates College

1. Philosophy  Who are you as a coach and what are you expectations for your team?  Standards and Expectations for team (uniform, language, on time, effort level)  Drills and fundamentals? Game situations or competitions? Teacher of the game?  Communication Style  Motivation Style  Role of Assistants Write a Coaching Philosophy

2. Curriculum  Set a general foundation for what needs to be covered over the course of the season o Hitting philosophy o Pitching o Position specific defense o Team Defense o Team Offense o Strength and Conditioning o Mental Skills

What are your mechanical teaching points for each area? What drills will you use to improve your players for each area?

The amount of time you have in your season will dictate the depth of each piece. o Professional level, D1 and D2, D3, high school, youth teams

3. Daily Lesson Plan  Post daily before practice  Communicate new drills, changes ahead of time. At start of practice or in team meeting  Change week to week or day to day o Opponent you are playing o Things your team needs to work on o Pulse of your team (exams, bad weather, long practices, lots of games)

4. Individual Player Plans  Create plan for long term development not just short term performance  Coach the entire player, skill development, physical development, mental development, and personal maturation

Know who you are as a coach, define the areas that are important to your team’s success, then develop and implement the plan to get them to achieve www.BaseballCoachesClinic.com

SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 11:30AM – 12:15PM: Nehantic/Pequot/Paugusset TOPIC: How to Develop the Proper Pitcher's Mindset PRESENTER: Bruce Hurst, Boston Red Sox Hall of Fame Pitcher & Pitching Coach for China's World Baseball Classic Team

• Confidence

• Attitude

• Poise

• Between Innings

• One Pitch Away From Greatness and One Pitch Away From Humility

• Putting Hitters Away

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SESSION: Saturday, January 17, 2015, 11:30AM – 12:15PM: Shinnecock/Nipmuc TOPIC: Catching Fundamentals: Drills/Techniques/Preparation PRESENTER: Mike Church, Diamond Kings Founder & Youth Baseball Instructor

 What is a catcher’s job?

 Who is a good candidate for your backstop?

 Properly fitting equipment

THROWING LIKE A CATCHER RECEIVING  Catch, Feet, Throw  Quarter Turn, Drop to receive  Progression--Catch, heart, right,  Catch Glove Flat left throw  Inside Pitch

 Arm action  Outside Pitch

 High Transfer  Low Pitch

 Pull the elbow back  High Pitch  Framing?

THROWING TO BASES BLOCKING  No faking pickoffs Different pitches call for different styles  Catch the ball deep 1. Fall forward Footwork 2. Replace the feet  Pop  Middle  Two step  Inside  Drop step  Outside

 Roll the knee!!

Throws to 3rd base and 1st base POP UPS

 Footwork  Cleat the umpire

 Back to infield – P, 1st, 3rd  Hang on to mask FIELDING BUNTS  See ball in front of your face at Footwork 11 o’clock  1st base  Receive above head  2nd Base o Thumbs together  3rd base  Find the next play

DRILLS/NOTES

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