Breaking news in regard to the Raising A Hitter facility and the Raising A Man enterprise.
Scroll to the bottom for the latest and greatest.
Check back often, for updates.
October 27, 2011: Work continues inside the facility and the website is almost ready for public viewing.
October 30, 2011: New videos uploaded.
November 1, 2011: Raising A Hitter logo finalized.
November 2, 2011: Received the last of 4 hand-made, custom-crafted pitching mounds from Marinelli Mounds (contact Raising A Hitter for pricing and ordering).
November 3, 2011: http://raisingahitter.com goes live.
November 3, 2011: Facebook fan page, coming soon. In the interim, check out http://facebook.com/pages/Raising-a-Man/109899705733039
November 3, 2011: Exciting wood bat news, coming next week.
November 4, 2011: Raising A Hitter agrees to be a Westerville host of Old Skool Sports programs, beginning with Youth Indoor MLB T-Ball in January 2012. Visit http://oldskoolsports.com for info and registration.
November 5, 2011: Marketer extraordinaire Lee Connors, owner of BSM Nation, has built and will administrate a Facebook fan page. Visit http://www.facebook.com/pages/Raising-A-Hitter/301866036492642 for news and more.
November 7, 2011: Raising A Hitter reaches agreement to become a distributor of Phoenix Wood Bats. Their bats and apparel will be available in our pro shop area, plus you can test their bats in our hitting tunnels.
November 8, 2011: Election Day - get out and vote!
November 9, 2011: Any teacher and coach affected by the Westerville Levy decision, please contact Raising A Hitter to discuss your opportunity to become a member of our training staff.
November 10, 2011: New Blog entries.
November 10, 2011: Happy Birthday to the United States Marine Corps. Semper Fi!
November 11, 2011: Say "Thank you" to everyone who served. Today, on Veteran's Day, and every day.
November 21, 2011: Iron Mike pitching machine received. This model is capable of hurling a baseball at speeds ranging from 25 to 85 mph, a fast-pitch softball from 25 to 85 mph, and a slow-pitch softball, too.
November 23, 2011: It may be necessary to transfer the video platform on this website to a specific YouTube site, due to uploading challenges attributable to both an aged computer and balky Chrome capability.
November 24, 2011: Happy Thanksgiving!
December 13, 2011: Marketer, businessman, charity fundraiser and most important, good friend Lee Connors dies at age 44. He will always be remembered.
December 25, 2011: Merry Christmas!
December 28, 2011: It appears that the good City of Westerville is ready to release our "Conditional Occupancy" permit. At long last, Raising A Hitter is poised to open.
December 29, 2011: New usage options announced: it is now possible to rent, at a significant discount and for exclusive use, 1) any two 70-foot tunnels; 2) both (two) 35-foot tunnels; 3) 1/2 of the entire facility. Convenience, affordability and adaptability are foremost in our offerings.
January 1, 2012: Happy New Year!
March 15, 2012: After 1 year and 2 weeks of negotiations and wrangling, the City of Westerville decrees that Raising A Hitter has fulfilled all construction, renovation, fire protection and internal handicap-accessibility obligations.
March 23, 2012: This afternoon, Westerville Schools begin their spring break. Raising A Hitter announces selected opportunities for unlimited, full facility access at a $5 per day rate. See "Spring Break" drop-down menu under the "Specials" tab for full detail.
March 24, 2012: Announcing the "Wall of Fame" hitting contest: test your skill with the ultimate precision hand-eye batting feat. Four young men (2 baseball players from Westerville North; a 14-year-old Westerville Warhawk; and a 12-year-old Westerville A) have achieved distinction; one of whom smashed the old record (which was his to begin with!). Who's next!
March 25, 2012: Three young men (2 baseball players from Westerville Central; and an 11-year-old Westerville Red Leg) and one young lady (a DeSales Stallions softball player) made the Wall of Fame today. Step up to the plate to see how you compare.
March 25, 2012: If you're on Spring Break, stop in from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Monday through Friday and take advantage of our $5 unlimited access basketball/baseball/softball deal. Are you going to sit around and play video games, or are you going to get serious and get better at your sport? Make the right choice.
March 26, 2012: New blog post, Get Hooked on M.E.T.H. Don't be fooled by the title; this entry is safe and legal and gives a new twist to a tried-and-true line of thought. Read, learn, and benefit.
March 26, 2012: Two Westerville South baseball players made the Wall of Fame today. They wonder if their Wildcats teammates are up to the challenge. There's only one way to find that answer. Come and get some beans.
March 27, 2012: Three young baseball players, each on the Westerville A's, made the Wall of Fame today, including the youngest player at age 8! Tune in tomorrow for the announcement of a new hitting challenge.
March 28, 2012: Another 8-year-old (another Westerville A) makes the Wall of Fame, as does another Westerville South baseball player. Still working out the details; thanks to Josh Tischler and Vince Murdock (both from Westerville South; both Wall of Famers) for testing various new protocols and standards on a Total Control Ball Power Hitting Challenge. Tees were broken and bottles smashed; walls were pounded and heavy baseballs were bashed in an impressive and educational hitting display. What did you do to get better, today?
March 28, 2012: 'Tis almost the season: WYBSL players were in, pounding the baseball and improving their skills in anticipation of the upcoming season. Don't get left behind - come in today and get primed for the spring/summer season. Check out the "Specials" tab for a WYBSL-specific bargain during the month of April.
March 29, 2012: Change to WYBSL special: due to a new agreement with the Columbus Men's Senior Baseball League, the specially-priced WYBSL access on Sundays during April is shifted to a noon to 2 p.m. slot.
March 29, 2012: There is now a Level Two on the Precision Hitting Wall of Fame. The new challenge: hit 6 consecutive beans with the 3/4" diameter thin bat. Tough; yet possible. In fact, the new standard has been achieved! A 12-year-old Westerville A's player hit Level 2 today. Who will reach the mark, tomorrow?
March 30, 2012: A few youngsters came close, but did not {yet} achieve Wall of Fame Level One status. That shortfall is temporary. They approached the difficult challenge with resolve and confidence and belief, and when things did not go as planned they remained positive and upbeat. It was a very impressive display of fortitude from 3 Walnut Springs students. With that attitude, each has already achieved success, and the Wall of Fame will follow.
March 31, 2012: A Columbus Sharks U11 player made the Wall of Fame Level One, and then moved into 2nd place in the Level Two challenge. He fell just short of that qualifying mark, but he's poised to achieve it the next time! As is his brother, who made several close runs at Level One and fell just shy. Next time, guaranteed.
April 1, 2012: First visit by a Columbus Senior Men's Baseball League team. It was an impressive display of prowess by the Barons, who start their season in about 6 weeks. Adulthood does not relegate one to beer-league softball and a sedentary life, as these men demonstrate. Thanks for your patronage. And congratulations on winning the title last season. They look ready to defend their crown.
April 1, 2012: No fooling. The Precision Hitting Wall of Fame Level One record-book was assaulted by 2 high-school freshman today. A Westerville Central hitting machine moved into overall 2nd place, while his Olentangy Orange counterpart moved into a comfortable 3rd. The Westerville Central player became the first contestant to achieve Wall of Fame status on his initial attempt. Next: Level Two, for each of these young men.
April 2, 2012: Announcing 2 new hitting challenges: the Line Drive Power Bomb, Levels One and Two.
Level One, hit a baseball or softball (depending on your sport) off a tee, in a tunnel, 55 feet so that it strikes a 4' x 5' hitting mat without touching any netting. Three (3) out of 10 meets the Wall of Fame standard.
Level Two, hit a Total Control Heavy Ball off a tee into an approximate 4' x 8' wall target square, from a distance of 45 feet. Four (4) out of 10 meets the Wall of Fame standard.
April 2, 2012: Coming soon: Two Basketball Accuracy Shooting Challenges, with Wall of Fame standards.
April 3, 2012: Check out our Quotation Corner, featuring famous to obscure quotes about sports, life, and success. If you don't like to read books, at least read our wall.
April 4, 2012: A Westerville Wildcat 13-year-old made the Wall of Fame Level One tonight. And, another Westerville A's batter made the Wall, too. Congratulations to both for an outstanding accomplishment!
April 4, 2012: New Blog entry on pitching machines. One type provides many batters with a false and unrealistic sense of skill; the other provides a tougher challenge that makes a batter better in a game, where it counts.
April 5, 2012: The Westerville WarHawks conducted a 45 minute chalk-talk brain session tonight before getting down to the nitty-gritty of practice. Utilize one of our meeting rooms replete with dry-erase boards, or our film room, and take your team's mental game to the next level. It was great to see the young ballplayers engaged and learning more about the intricacies of their sport.
April 5, 2012: Someone dented a softball the other day. Can you hit the ball hard enough to put a dent in it? Try it!
April 6, 2012: A determined 13-year-old who is not playing baseball this season picked up a bat for the first time in a long time and became the first to achieve the Line Drive Power Hitting Wall of Fame Level One. He hit until blisters bled and never wavered until he succeeded! Congratulations!
April 6, 2012: Two DeSales freshman baseball players achieved the Precision Hitting Wall of Fame Level One. And, one of the young men became only the second player to meet the Level Two standard. His will to succeed was evident and he was able to hit 6 consecutive beans with the 3/4" diameter bat. Incredible!
April 7, 2012: The MudCats of the Columbus Senior Men's Baseball League made an appearance today.
April 8, 2012: Happy Easter! The facility is closed in honor of the resurrection celebration.
April 9, 2012: The week dawns colder and rainy. No need to cancel practice; call now to reserve an indoor time and keep your team on track for a great season.
April 9, 2012: Shifting the contents and article archives from http://raisingahitter.wordpress.com to this site so all information is available at one location. Read; experiment; adapt; grow.
April 9, 2012: Ninety-two (92) entries posted to the blog, packed with practical tips for developing the mindset of a hitter.
April 10, 2012: Mass migration of contents and article archives from http://raising-a-man.tumblr.com to this site. These blog posts deal with attaining excellence in life, and the subject matter runs the gamut from history to sports to philosophy to book reviews to great words to great quotes and beyond.
April 10, 2012: Check out the fabulous photos taken by Raising A Hitter Head Instructor (Baseball and Football) Tom "T.D." Denney, at the front desk. These are pictures from the Cincinnati Reds game on Saturday, April 7th, and they show vivid, real-time examples of big league ball-players 1) taking the knob of the bat to the ball, 2) keeping the hands back and inside, 3) pivoting around the front hip via a straightened front leg, 4) bringing the back-side around without the misguided 'squishing the bug' technique, 5) extending the follow-through way, way long through the ball (look at the Joey Votto home run pic for an amazing example), 6) hitting the ball without the ill-advised 'roll the top hand over' technique, and plenty more. Forget conjecture and see reality. This is how the the top pros in the game hit the ball, and you should do the same!
April 10, 2012: The Westerville Wildcats eschewed the cold outside weather and came inside for a bullpen/hitting session. The young men were focused and are primed for another great season!
April 11, 2012: Eighty (80) entries posted to the blog. Wide-ranging subject matter = everything is related. Read, and find the connection. Connect the dots, yourself, and begin to analyze, synthesize and coalesce.
April 12, 2010: Ninety (90) entries posted to the blog. Pictures and illustrations are coming, soon, also! Start searching the archives and get great!
April 12, 2012: Great idea for infielders in order to practice digging out/scooping low throws, and for catchers working on blocking pitches in the dirt: use the Iron Mike pitching machine to throw the short-hops. The pitching machine is not just for hitting! Get better at the entire game of baseball, using a pitching machine.
April 13, 2012: Thirteen (13) blog entries today complete the migration. If you can't find something of interest in the blog archives, you may not have a pulse.
April 14, 2012: Pictures and illustrations being added to blog. Also, an index arrives soon, to make the archive search easier.
April 14, 2012: Rain outside did not deter many dedicated individuals from coming inside to work on pitching and hitting. Improvise, adapt and overcome the inconveniences provided by unpredictable central Ohio weather and get great!
April 15, 2012: About a dozen WYBSL youngsters were in, working specifically on their hitting skills. The young men were sponges, soaking up the advice and applying the coaching offered. In several weeks, when the season gets underway, these young men will be primed, ready and ripping the cover off the baseball.
April 16, 2012: During the short, furious, and fast high school baseball season, practice time may be limited, and players may need to put in extra work on their own. This is especially true for a player who is struggling. For instance, if a hitter struggles to hit fast pitching, he needs to see plenty of fast pitches and acclimate himself to that speed. An effective way: use our Iron Mike pitching machine. One specific way that yields results - from a distance of 46 feet, dial the Iron Mike to at least 70 m.p.h. and work on your reaction time. Several hundred baseballs per night and you'll see the ball better and react much faster during a game, when it counts.
April 17, 2012: If you care about being your best, you'll find a way to get better. Here's a shining example: on game day, a diligent high school baseball player drives to the facility as soon as school ends, hits 35 to 50 baseballs off the Iron Mike throwing at 72 to 74 m.p.h. from 46 feet, and is back at his school within 15 minutes. Is it any wonder he's a sophomore and starting for the varsity?
April 18, 2012: During a non-tournament time, a pitcher on a team deep with pitchers may go a week or more without pitching in a game or practice, due to scheduling or weather. This pitcher needs to keep sharp, and an effective way is to come indoors and use one of our custom-built mounds and pitching tunnels. No excuses; be at your best when you get the call to pitch in a game!
April 19, 2012: A Westerville South sophomore attained Legend status tonight at the Precision Hitting Wall of Fame Level One challenge. This determined young man set out to challenge the all-time record, and he attacked every bean with extreme focus. He blasted past the previous record of 54, and didn't stop until he achieved a new, amazing record of 65! It is important to note that, about 5 weeks ago when he first tried the challenge, this same player struggled to hit more than 4 in a row. His stunning, quantum leap of performance is due to his bulldog attitude and propensity to practice with a purpose. This was an astounding triumph of will - you could see in his eyes that he would not be denied. Congratulations to the new Hit King!
April 20, 2012: The new Precision Hitting Wall of Fame Level One record stood for 24 hours, and was bested in a prodigious performance. Ever see the movie Caddyshack? Recall the wondrous round of golf by the priest, who made miraculous shot after miraculous shot in the round of his life? This feat was reminiscent. For almost 15 straight minutes, this young man hit every pitch. No foul tips, no foul pop-ups, just line drive after line drive. No matter what, the bean was hit! The old record was eclipsed, the century mark surpassed, and all previous records obliterated in a maximum display of concentration and endurance. The new record is now an incredible 168!
April 21, 2012: Cold, wet weather brought the second-generation Ohio Merchants into the facility. The youngsters were excited and eager and worked hard on their swings and got in some bullpen work. Throw out the won-lost record; these boys are dedicated to become great and it is a sight to behold.
April 22, 2012: A freshman DeSales baseball player came into the facility for the first time and put on an impressive display of hitting. His younger bother, age 5, knows how to rake too. It's a proven fact, as judged at least by the anecdotal evidence at Raising a Hitter: younger brothers learn an incredible amount by witnessing their older brothers. And, if they love the game enough to practice, in time, they inevitably eclipse their role model's exploits. Learn from the best and gain success!
April 23, 2012: Major League Baseball is in full swing now and every game has so much to offer. Watch how big league and college players approach game situations; then apply it to your own experiences. Great players love the game and extract helpful nuggets of wisdom from everything they see.
April 24, 2012: Bat speed is an extremely important component of a successful swing. Take heed of the timeless mantra: "short (fast) to the ball; long through the ball."
April 25, 2012: The respective high school baseball and softball seasons' are down to the final weeks and the dedicated, devoted players are preparing for their summer travel seasons. If you need help with any facet of your game, be it fielding (infield or outfield or catching) or base-running or pitching or throwing or hitting, or even the necessary mental approach and game savvy required to be a great player, inquire about a private session with one of our experienced, qualified instructors.
April 26, 2012: Great players are not limited by the vagaries of outside weather. They improvise, adapt and overcome nasty April evenings by getting inside and attacking their weaknesses and enhancing their strengths. In this evening: teams and individuals representing the Wildcats Red, Westerville South, Cobras, Westerville North, A's (two generations), Redlegs, Olentangy, DeSales, Westerville Central, and the Merchants. What a fantastic assortment of excellence.
April 26, 2012: Peter Patton's Pure Form basketball debuted at the facility. Taking full advantage of the 75 foot by 50 foot basketball space, Peter put his students through the paces. First, some St. Paul young ladies really listened, worked hard and had fun doing a variety of drills. Then, a St. Charles student played one-on-one with Peter, among other challenging drills, and learned much about the game and about how to practice with intensity, purpose, and pace.
April 27, 2012: It is encouraging to see WYBSL, Blendon, and Olentangy recreation league players in the facility. These players love the game and are willing to put in the time to improve. If you love the game, you must practice with a purpose, in order to get better.
April 28, 2012: There is no better sight than a parent and child throwing a baseball to each other. This act, alone, makes baseball the American pastime. And softball is synonymous with baseball, in this case. No matter the level of play, be it Little League to Major League Baseball, the bond between a father and mother and son and daughter is enhanced by playing the game together. The game is great; the memories and feelings associated with the quality time spent with a loved one is greater. Cherish each moment together, on the field and off.
April 29, 2012: Participants in the Columbus Men's Senior Baseball League are gearing up in anticipation of their upcoming season. It's like riding a bike. Some "older" men have not played competitive ball in years, yet when they pick up the glove and swing the bat they are transformed into the youngster who first fell in love with the game. Baseball is timeless and once its skills are learned, they are embedded in the DNA and become a permanent part of the person. Play baseball and re-discover your inner child, and stay young at heart in the process.
April 30, 2012: Unlearning a long-term habit is a brutal and difficult undertaking. Consider a very accomplished high school freshman who learned to swing using the old-school concept of 'squishing the bug.' His swing has been grooved by thousands of repetitions and honed in hundreds of games. It is comfortable, is second nature and thus automatic and unconscious, and has yielded very good results thus far. However, in order to ascend to a higher lever of play, he must unlearn this habit and learn, instead, the concept of firing his back hip and pivoting, hard, around the axis of his front hip whilst ignoring the ingrained technique of using his back foot as a fulcrom. Sometimes it is necessary to take the proverbial 1 step back in order to get 2 steps ahead. Only the willingness to do whatever is necessary will allow this transformation to occur. Unlearn; learn anew; succeed at a superior level.
May 1, 2012: The difference between a great player and a lesser player lies in commitment. The great player commits himself to a move or an action or a play and holds nothing back. A lesser player always holds back, keeping something in reserve because of a particular fear. Don't hold back!
May 2, 2012: Workhouse Fastpitch Instructor Jack Jenkins is bringing his softball teaching talents to Raising A Hitter beginning the weekend of May 12 and May 13.
May 3, 2012: Basketball leagues and other opportunities, coming soon.
May 4, 2012: It's not the bat, it's the batter.
May 5, 2012: Visit Brian Laffey's annual Battle in the Ville youth baseball tournament at Highlands Park in Westerville today and tomorrow and witness a fantastic collection of talented baseball teams. This is a well-run event, regardless of weather, and features top-notch local and state-wide talent.
May 6, 2012: It may be necessary for some youth pitcher's to throw a bullpen of sorts almost every day, in order to "grease the groove" and solidify proper mechanics. Even a short throwing session of 18 to 24 pitches may be sufficient to reinforce great habits and maintain a solid comfort level. Trevor Bauer, a recent Diamondbacks' top draft pick, throws every day and he's one of the best young pitchers in the game. Try it and see if it works for you.
May 7, 2012: The Golden Flyers were in for an initial visit tonight and accomplished much. It's often tough to get enough swings in during an outdoor practice because so much time is spent retrieving baseballs and shuffling personnel. Indoors, the tunnels reduce down time and nearby multiple stations can be overseen by a diligent coach.
May 8, 2012: The WYBSL Royals came inside due to wet field conditions and got at least 100 swings per player in less than an hour. It's amazing how much a player improves when he puts forth the effort.
May 9, 2012: It's interesting how a great player, with the help and support of his family, finds a way to make it into the facility 4 or 5 or more times per week, when most of his peers claim they are "too busy." Each gets 24 hours in a day, so it all comes down to priorities. If it's important, find time.
May 10, 2012: Head Instructor Tom Denney is formulating final plans for a series of "Fielding Camps" this summer. T.D. was an exemplary infielder on the perennial powerhouse Westerville North teams of several decades ago and learned more during his time as an infielder at Eastern Michigan. A Raising A Hitter guarantee: there is no finer teacher of precise infielder skills than T.D. Stay tuned for further information.
May 11, 2012: The Sharks were in last night for an intensive session of hitting and pitching. This team is off to a fantastic start this season, but they are never satisfied and came in to work on several, particular items. They left tired and sweaty and improved.
May 12, 2012: Workouse Fastpitch Softball Instructor Jack Jenkins welcomed clients from all parts of central Ohio: London, Powell, New Albany, Ashville, and Chillicothe. The young women prepared themselves for future greatness and had fun during the process!
May 13, 2012: Happy Mother's Day! Being a mother is the most important responsibility in the world and should never be taken for granted. Without a mother and the birth of her child, the human race would eventually cease to exist. So, thank every mother you see, on this day and every day.
May 14, 2012: A WYBSL Coach Pitch player was in for a Personal Training session. He listened; he learned; he worked hard; and he is well prepared for his first game this Friday. Like him, make this your best season by training with our knowledgeable and capable staff.
May 15, 2012: New Blog post, "Hit King's Keys to the Kingdom."
May 16, 2012: New Blog post, "It's Not Only the Grip."
May 16, 2012: New Blog post, " 'I Get Paid to Practice.' "
May 16, 2012: New Blog post, "Go Forward."
May 17, 2012: Peter Patton's Pure Form basketball continues to create young hoops stars who attack their goals on the court and off. It is inspiring to see his youngsters listen, apply, adapt and grow!
May 18, 2012: Several WYBSL players stopped in on their night off. These youngsters love the game and are willing to work very hard in order to improve their skills. They already have wonderful attitudes and an abundance of effort!
May 19, 2012: Many softball players, most in the middle school to young high school age group, visited this morning and afternoon. The reaction time, and swiftness, of these young ladies' swings is breathtaking to see and a wonder to witness. Whether for baseball or for softball, an effective swing appears, and is, the same.
May 20, 2012: Each individual player is slightly different and takes a different path toward success. For instance, one young pitcher needs constant practice and reinforcement of his most effective technique and throws 24 to 30 pitches in a daily bullpen session or his mechanics go haywire. Another young pitcher throws 12 to 15 pitches during a once weekly bullpen session and is remarkably consistent in his mechanics and his performance. The curious fact about these 2 pitchers? They are the same youngster, from 1 year ago, and now. Times change; people change; training methods and frequencies may also require periodic adjustments. Adapt to what is needed now.
May 21, 2012: The intent to swing fast is just as important as the technique(s) necessary to swing fast. Let the mind be master over the body.
May 22, 2012: Despise any weakness you have in your game, or in your life, and work without mercy to diminish, minimize and eliminate it. You are stronger than your weakest link. Go forth and prove it!
May 23, 2012: Softball pitching coach extraordinaire Ron Marstiller stopped by today. He is making plans to soon begin offering his invaluable instruction and a half century of expertise to the Raising a Hitter clientele.
May 24, 2012: Westerville City Schools begin Summer Break! Summer is a time to bask in the nice weather and to revel in the freedom of a brief respite from the rigors of school. It is also an opportune time to devote yourself to a particular task or pursuit or hobby. After all, there is plenty of time during the summer to fit fun, work, and play into the longest days of the year. Enjoy this summer, and also take time to do something significant with your game. Take yourself to the next level. Work hard; play hard; and graduate to the next level.
May 25, 2012: Several high school players were in to prepare for travel ball, now that most teams have concluded their school season. No matter how well you played during the high school schedule, now is the time to prepare for greater success next year. Games are wonderful and fun and refreshing, while practice is (most times) difficult and tiresome and 'boring.' However, focused, attentive practice allows you to shine and display your best performance during a game and is a necessary component in every great player's schedule. If your team does not have time to practice during and amongst the condensed and crammed summer travel schedule, you must care enough to carve time into your day to practice. It is important!
May 26, 2012: It is refreshing to see a college student, who just finished a fantastic freshman softball season at a Division I Big Ten school, come back to her hometown and work with middle school and high school players. Imparting her wisdom helps others, and it helps her game, too. If you want to take your skills to a higher level, help teach a younger player. The benefits to the both of you are extraordinary!
May 27, 2012: Raising A Hitter is housed in a warehouse that was built in 1971. There is no modern air conditioning. When it is hot and humid outside, it is equally brutal inside, in spite of the open air circulation provided by the two open garage doors and the multiple high volume floor fans. The weak and unconditioned and unmotivated athlete may use the uncomfortable conditions as an excuse to slack and curtail their activity and intensity. The great and strong athlete uses the conditions as another facet of training, and realizes that the difficult conditions train the body and the mind to persevere during tough times and to overcome prodigious obstacles. The great athlete drinks plenty of fluids before, during and after practice and battles through the heat and the dripping sweat in order to fulfill his potential. Stay hot; stay great.
May 28, 2012: Memorial Day. A solemn day of remembrance for the fallen warriors who sacrificed all so that we survivors retain the freedoms that our Founding Fathers defined essential. General George S. Patton said it well: "It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather, we should thank God that such men lived." Give thanks, today and every day, for the brave heroes who gave their lives to a greater cause. Thank a veteran; praise their fallen comrades; use the freedom the deceased defended to live a great life. Always remember their gift!
May 29, 2012: Raising a Hitter is committed to a lifetime of continual learning. A wonderful baseball and training website with plenty of thought-provoking articles, videos and original research is http://www.drivelinebaseball.com
May 30, 2012: Another link to a baseball website, this time a new blog off to a promising start mixed with some interesting current blogs: http://www.prepbaseballreport.com/pbr-blog
May 31, 2012: When in doubt, swing harder. Use a heavy, stand-up punching bag and train yourself to explode into the ball at impact. If you think you swing hard, check yourself ... then swing harder.
June 1, 2012: The softball world seems more open to new ideas and innovative training tools and techniques then baseball, in many ways. For instance, a renowned softball coach developed a remarkable training aid, the Zip Ball, in order to enhance hand-eye coordination with the use of a realistic, albeit smaller circumference, training ball. The Zip Ball has the same construction and same feel as a normal softball but is about 50% the circumference. It is a fantastic training tool for hitting, fielding and pitching, and the skills it imparts transfer well to the game of baseball, too.
June 2, 2012: It is encouraging to see WYBSL rec ball players working hard at hitting, pitching and fielding. The realization that hard work is a necessary component of success is often the first step on the path to greatness.
June 3, 2012: The Kroger stock of Navy Beans is close to being sold out. If you're not certain of the advantages this small white bean offers, stop in to Raising A Hitter and find out why this useful legume tops the list of favorite food items and is not just for eating.
June 4, 2012: Two MLB rookies approaching or at all-time levels of excellence are Mike Trout of the Anaheim Angels and Bryce Harper of the Washington Nationals. Do yourself a favor and watch these two fantastic, amazing athletes play the game they love. Their passion for the sport is visible, palpable, and contagious.
June 5, 2012: Many young pitchers and fielders aim "to" the mitt instead of aiming "through" the mitt. Try this: during practice, lengthen the required distance of a pitch or a throw by 5 to 10 feet and focus on throwing the ball, fast, on a line past the intended target. Never settle for a dying quail that fades toward the target. Insist upon a speeding bullet that accelerates as it reaches its target.
June 6, 2012: D-Day. Another chance (and there are never too many opportunities) to remember the brave warriors who sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom. Even if you don't like to read, you owe it to yourself and to the memories of these fabulous men: read The Longest Day by Cornelius Ryan to discover the amazing sacrifices and unbelievable guts of the D-Day soldiers. If you ever feel sorry for yourself and wish to beg for sympathy, read about what these men endured and get a cold, hard look at the harsh reality of what they achieved, at a significant cost. Always remember.
June 7, 2012: Raising A Hitter and infield expert Tom Denney present the first in a series of fielding clinics. This is a 3-day, intensive hands-on skills clinic aimed at the aspiring infielder who wants to maximize his fielding prowess. See / under the "Specials" tab for more detail, or view the document itself at /uploads/6/8/0/6/6806170/infield_clinic.doc
June 8, 2012: A baseball hitting site loaded with info, some applicable and some to take with a grain of salt. Read; experiment; discover. If it works, use it. If not, move on: http://www.swing-smarter-baseball-hitting-drills.com/
June 9, 2012: An interesting overall site that features a page which converts various pitching speeds into a common, equivalent barometer: http://www.efastball.com/baseball/pitching/equivalent-baseball-pitch-speeds-conversion-chart/ Use it with discretion!
June 10, 2012: Hall of Fame baseball manager Sparky Anderson said, "I've got my faults. But living in the past isn't one of them. There's no future in it."
June 11, 2012: If you play on a team, you have to care about your performance at least as much as your coach or your parents, otherwise you are doomed to mediocrity.
June 13, 2012: Thought-provoking baseball web site with plenty of radical ideas and unique ways of presenting info: http://baseballhittingrebellion.com/
June 14, 2012: An essential component of hitting success is having a routine as you step into the batter's box. Too many times, especially during practice, a player has no set routine or fails to establish a repeatable pattern. This dooms the batter to failure, most times. Do the same thing for every swing, whether in practice or in a game. Set your the same, gauge your distance from the plate the same, load the same, breathe the same, and so on. You must have a routine that is unconscious and replicable under any conditions and in any situation.
June 15, 2012: The First Annual Westerville Wood Bat Shootout for 13U teams commenced.
June 16, 2012: Using a wood bat teaches the hitter to be precise and hit the ball on the sweet spot of the barrel. Hitting the ball anywhere else yields poor results, and a possible broken bat. Phoenix Bats, made in Ohio, offer thicker handles and a balanced bat that holds up well in game conditions, even when used by inexperienced and novice youngsters.
June 17, 2012: The Westerville Wood Bat Shootout champions took home their well-earned trophy, a stunning and decorative black engraved bat that resides with pride in the lobby of Raising A Hitter.
June 18, 2012: The Mid-Ohio Bullets were in last night for their season-ending celebration. What a great group of parents, players and siblings. They played plenty of pick-up basketball, swung at pitches off the Iron Mike, and in general had loads of fun and ate plenty of great food. Their blend of camaraderie, friendship and competitiveness promises a great future for these fine young men and their families.
June 19, 2012: An informative site that provides videos, interviews, tips, drills and discussions, all with rising or established high level baseball players: http://www.nextlevelballplayer.com/
June 20, 2012: This is a fantastic resource for parents, coaches and players. This site, and Joe Ehrmann's two fantastic books, really nails the true essence of sports as being a pathway toward greatness in life. Ehrmann's is a voice of experience and his viewpoints are reasoned, mature and much needed amidst the hype and overblown importance on winning at any cost. http://www.coachforamerica.com/
June 21, 2012: This is an interesting basketball site with tons of free resources and articles: http://www.basketballshootingcoach.com/ highlights the mental preparation necessary to develop into a fantastic basketball player, and specifically a great shooter. There are many ways to develop a great shot, and this site offers a certain method to anchor the fundamental thought processes and subsequent physical patterns that enable consistent success.
June 22, 2012: Even the best hitters endure bouts of frustration and sub-par results. The key is to work both harder and smarter until you discover/re-discover the solution that returns you to brilliance.
June 23, 2012: Steven Pressfield is an accomplished and respected writer who came to initial fame for most with his book The Legend of Bagger Vance, later a film starring Will Smith and Matt Damon. His site http://www.stevenpressfield.com/ is ostensibly about writing but you'll be amazed at the stories, anecdotes and advice that are equally applicable to any and all aspects of life including sports.
June 24, 2012: http://www.pitching.com/blog/ is a controversial blog by pitching coach Dick Mills, whose thoughts and practices regarding so-called "momentum pitching" are scoffed at by some and revered by devotees. If nothing else, read his often eccentric and confrontational theories, extract what is appropriate for you, implement in a practice, and if it works you have another tool at your disposal.
June 25, 2012: http://chirontraining.blogspot.com/ is an incredible resource for any teacher, coach, student or player. Rory Miller is a leading expert on violence and self defense and his thoughtful, detailed examinations of techniques, training and practices are transferable to the acquisition of any new knowledge, skill or behavior. Read between the lines and apply these lessons to your chosen sport.
June 26, 2012: http://thetalentcode.com/ is author Dan Coyle's incredible blog about learning and the development of skill. According to Coyle and the research he cites, talent is not necessarily just a finite something you are born with; it is rather a dynamic and expandable capability that is best developed through particular ways of practicing and learning. If you read this blog, you are guaranteed to have many "eureka" moments and you will feel more positive about your possibility of becoming more talented.
June 27, 2012: http://www.baseballfit.com/baseball-instruction-reports.htm is the brainchild of baseball instructor and strength coach Steve Zawrotny. He's another charismatic teacher who engenders respect, admiration, incredulity and controversy with his different takes on strength and conditioning, pitching, hitting, and mental approach.
June 28, 2012: Dave Holt offers many fine teaching tips and principles at his website http://www.coachandplaybaseball.com/ that examines his version of "proper coaching." Features plenty of thought-provoking resources, articles and stories.
June 29, 2012: http://www.gymscience.com/index.cfm is an interesting site featuring the scientific theories on injury prevention and peak pitching performance of female sports kinesiologist Angel Borrelli. Go to the "free-for-all-articles" section for some fascinating thoughts on maximizing pitching skills.
June 30, 2012: http://www.girls-softball.com/ is an interesting guide to the world of fast-pitch softball written from the perspective of a father who coaches. The site is no longer updated but its teaching points and principles are in many cases timeless and essential.
July 4, 2012: Happy 236th Birthday to the greatest country in the world, the United States of America!
July 5, 2012: A very happy 7-year-old became the youngest member of the Precision Hitting Wall of Fame yesterday. After his amazing accomplishment, his smile was brighter than any of the fireworks he saw later that night. He's not only the youngest, he's the first WYBSL player to achieve the remarkable feat, and he moved into lofty AA status with an incredible 22 consecutive hits. Congratulations!
July 8, 2012: Rick Jacobs and his fine staff of Westerville Warhawks coaches, parents and players hosted their outstanding 13U Westerville Invitational Tournament for the second time this weekend. In spite of the stifling hot temperatures, the 6 teams involved persevered and played incredible baseball. The competition was fierce; the umpires did an excellent job; and the great game of baseball earned its distinction. Thank you, Coach Jacobs.
July 28, 2012: Ernest King brought his fabulous The Sports Connection company in for a pitching, hitting and catcher's clinic, with Special Guest Instructor Shawn Jeter, former MLB player for the White Sox and Indians. Almost 20 central Ohio high school baseball players attended, and almost everyone stayed for a full 5 hours. http://www.thesportsconnection.org tells the story of a new business that connects young athletes with college coaches, scouts and opportunities. Ernest and his staff are driven to help young athletes make a name for themselves and use athletics as a pathway to higher learning. If you're an athlete who wants help in getting an education and needs to increase your exposure to colleges and universities and scouts, The Sports Connection knows that you exist and will find a way to connect you with the people that can make a difference in your life. Look for more collaborative efforts, soon.
July 29, 2012: Presenting a wonderful and unique opportunity to learn how the best Major League hitters actually hit: Jake Epstein, son of the renowned hitting instructor Mike Epstein, is venturing east to Raising A Hitter in January 2013 to present a unique two day seminar on the concepts of hitting as taught to the elder Epstein by the one and only Ted Williams. See "Specials" tab, above, and visit http://www.mikeepsteinhitting.com/# for additional information. Space is limited so act now!
July 30, 2012: Coming soon to Raising A Hitter: Rotational Hitting instructors Robert Campbell and Bruce Lunsford offer individual and small-group lessons and instruction in the art of acquiring a major-league caliber swing using the philosophy of the Epstein School of Rotational Hitting. Robert and Bruce are the only such certified instructors in central Ohio and have years of experience in teaching this type of swing, utilizing extensive and instant video feedback in all their lessons.
July 31, 2012: Many years ago, a 7-year-old ventured into the big boy world of WYBSL Green Hat kid pitch baseball. At his initial Fall Ball practice, he heard words of wisdom from his incredible coaches Chris Marshall and Jason McClanahan that became a guidepost for that season, and for every season thereafter. The life-changing "Three Rules" are simple and amazing and applicable to everything. Rule One: Pay Attention. Rule Two: Hustle. Rule Three: Attack! Thank you, coaches!
August 4, 2012: A Westerville South senior stopped in after football conditioning to work on his hitting. He was introduced to the Wall of Fame Level One bean-hitting challenge and attacked the task. At first, the results were dismal. Two in row up to 7 in a row was the best he could do. Then, something clicked. He stepped away for a moment, grabbed a different bat, and returned with a new vengeance and an unstoppable attitude. The consecutive hits piled up. Past the minimum requirement of 1 dozen, his confidence and determination increased with every swing, all the way to 37 consecutive hits. Congratulations to our new third-place achiever!
August 7, 2012: Raising A Hitter agrees to assist WYBSL with the upcoming Fall Baseball Clinic this Sunday.
August 10, 2012: Raising A Hitter pitching instructor and all-around baseball teacher Kevin Becker agrees to step up with very short notice and assist with the WYBSL clinic on Sunday. Kevin's love for the game is significant and whenever there is an opportunity to help young men get better at the great game of baseball, he responds with enthusiasm and commitment.
August 11, 2012: Hitting Instructor Randy Bryant is also helping with the WYBSL clinic on Sunday. Randy has studied, in great detail, the true qualities of a successful major league swing as embodied by greats such as Pujols, Bonds, Hamilton and Ortiz, among many others. He is adept at transferring his knowledge to students who are willing to invest considerable time, effort and energy in order to achieve a high level swing.
August 12, 2012: The WYBSL Fall Baseball Clinic was attended by approximately 75 youngsters. These dedicated young men and women showed their love of the game by enduring a 3 hour whirlwind of information and new and improved ways of playing the game. Difficult things were demanded of them and they rose to the challenge on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. It was a joy and an honor to instruct them in the art of the game.
August 13, 2012: Peter Patton and his Pure Form Basketball are in during the next several weeks in the morning and afternoon. Visit the website http://www.pureformbasketball.com/ and contact Peter. He is an intense and dedicated teacher who possesses an abundance of passion for playing the game of basketball the right way. If you are dedicated to becoming a better basketball player and also want to learn about the character traits he emphasizes, and the hard work that success in any facet of life requires, please contact Peter. If you want to be your absolute best, you need someone like Peter in your life. Never settle for less than your best. Peter won't!
