On my return from 23 games and two weeks in Australia; I am writing, while 40,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean.
This is my 25th year of International Baseball and 13th trip to Australia. One our Rays player has requested an interview at UCLA. We will help this player Brenton Allen to attend UCLA. John Savage is the Head Coach and played in our 1st Goodwill Series in 1983.
Brenton, a left handed hitting outfielder from Cerritos - Gahr HS in Southern California hit the "hardest" ball I have seen from any of our 7,000 players in 25 years. He used the SSK wood bat and the opposing Australian pitcher was a 22 year minor league pitcher. This baseball defected off the pitcher's glove into center field.
Our Rays and Cubs team were coached by pro scouts, who daily taught the players fundamental baseball.
The South Africa National teams and the Australian State teams provided the competition.
In summary, I have several suggestions for our
high school players who desire to improve.
1. On the baseball field concentrate and study.
2. Be consistent and learn from every situation.
3. Ask the question Why?
4. Learn how to"teach yourself"
5. Study leadership. Lead yourself first.
6. Shortstops do not "back hand" a ball in front of you. Field the ball with your left ear.
7. Pitchers throw "waist to knees". Focus
8. If you attend college camps or a "showcase", take a dairy and record everything you see and hear.
9. Talk with your parents about your future, prepare a budget. We are in difficult economic times.
10. "Have fun and enjoy this game"
Bob Williams [preparing for next year]
Goodwill Series XXVI
Original Post
