Never forget, you are being watched...
I. Always play hard! Hustle, run everything out and always make the extra effort. I believe that the folks evaluating the players pay as much attention on how you go about your business as much as if you go 2 for 3 in the game. What kind of non verbal messages to you want to give them?
2. Look like a ball player. This is not the time to debut your own personal style. You want to stick out because of your great play not the way you look. Shirts tucked in, hats on straight and if you’re going to strut, do it back to the car after a great performance. (I truly have turned into my dad
)3. Never let them see you sweat; show that you can handle the mental side of the game, especially if things don’t go your way. I have heard more people tell my son that they really like his mound presence and how he handled a tough situation. This tells me that they are watching your “makeup” as well as how hard you can throw the ball or if you can knock it to the gaps.
4. Colleges know what happens in Ft. Myers. While there may not many schools in attendance, don't think they don't have eyes in the stands. You will see many high level travel team coaches in attendance. Not only are they looking for players that might fit into their teams, I believe they also provide feedback on players they like to some of the schools they work with. Also don’t forget, the ultimate college link is PG itself, if you show you’ve got skills the schools will know about it.
5. How do I stack up? This may be your first time seeing how big the baseball pool really is. The best part about our trip was finding out where my son fit into the underclass baseball landscape. Hopefully you will leave feeling good about where you stack up as well as finding out what you need to work on to become better.
6. This ones for all of us Mom and Dad’s out there. Try not to live and die with every swing, catch or pitch at the showcase. Don't read too much into how you think your son has done. I know from personal experience that sometimes when you aren’t sure they are at their best, (my son had what I thought was a so-so outing last year) the people evaluating the talent can see what they are looking for. The one thing I learned about a showcase format is that there is a different set of rules that don’t necessarily get measured by who wins or loses a game.
7. Most importantly, have a good time. It’s December, you’re in Florida and you’re getting to watch some really good baseball. What could be any better!
These are not necessarily original thoughts, just ones that might fit the occasion. Good luck to every HSWBB member going to Ft. Myers, I can’t wait to hear about your experiences when you return.
I wish we could be there with you.
