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Reply to "Main purpose of fall hs games?"

 

Passion, three of your last four topics posted in the past month ask almost the same questions.  Either you are becoming forgetful like the rest of us old farts or you are having some serious struggles with the whole fall ball thing.  I'm already bald, by the way.

 

 While developing a winning culture is important, it is certainly not the primary objective of off-season ball.  I think you will find that as you develop your program, even though you are working on specific off-season stuff and playing multiple players at different positions, your team will still compete and often "win".  You will become more wise with funneling your competitive nature into useful coaching functions such as getting the most out of each player.  Create an atmosphere where each player is competing to be the best they can be for the team and competing for that starting spot.  Create goals for improvement and reward them.  Fall ball is opportunity.  For you and for each player that is able to be a part of it.  More teaching.  More learning.  More gelling.  More experience.  Sure, some key players may be playing football.  Some may be burned out just coming off of summer club.  But you probably know what you have with those players.  Who is going to round out your club or be your nucleus a year or two from now?  Who is going to step in or slide over when the inevitable injury or ineligible player issue comes up?

 

Regarding pitchers, each presents a different set of circumstances.  Your proven vet may be working on a new pitch, better movement or better locating (or just need to rest his arm).  Your new kid may just need to face more live batters and compete to the best of his abilities.  And, of course, you never want to put a kid on the bump if his arm isn't in pitching-ready condition, no matter how good he is or how much you can use another good arm to get through the week.

 

Fall Ball.  Develop.  Teach.  Observe.  Inspire.  Provide opportunity.  Set expectations.

 

Now, you did mention previously that fall ball ends with a tourney. Depending on the situation, this may be the time to crank things up a bit.  Perhaps take a step toward what they can expect come spring.

Last edited by cabbagedad
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