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Playmaker
It sounds like you still have the dream and desire to play ball. It also sounds like you may still have the skills to play at the college level. And at your age anything is still possible.
Your story is a difficult one that I don't think is best served by giving you advice here without more details of your situation. You definitely need some adult wisdom and guidance to explore your potential and options.
I hope that some of our New York friends here on the HSBBW take note of your post and by exchanging some contact information thru the HSBBW private message tool you can talk directly with someone that can possibly help you.
Maybe you have some baseball left in you, maybe not but you need to seek out someone that can evaluate your situation. If you don't hear from anybody I would suggest talking with a counselor at some of the nearby colleges in your area. Don't just talk to one college, stop by at least two or three. Your options may be different depending on the school counselors you talk with.
Best of luck.
It sounds like you still have the dream and desire to play ball. It also sounds like you may still have the skills to play at the college level. And at your age anything is still possible.
Your story is a difficult one that I don't think is best served by giving you advice here without more details of your situation. You definitely need some adult wisdom and guidance to explore your potential and options.
I hope that some of our New York friends here on the HSBBW take note of your post and by exchanging some contact information thru the HSBBW private message tool you can talk directly with someone that can possibly help you.
Maybe you have some baseball left in you, maybe not but you need to seek out someone that can evaluate your situation. If you don't hear from anybody I would suggest talking with a counselor at some of the nearby colleges in your area. Don't just talk to one college, stop by at least two or three. Your options may be different depending on the school counselors you talk with.
Best of luck.
Playmaker03:
Missouri-BB-Dad offers some very good advice to you. I would advise you to follow his advice...it's sound.
It is my opinion that confidence is the most valuable asset that a baseball player possesses...especially a pitcher. True confidence is earned and respected and thus is substantive and very valuable. It enables you to perform at a successful level...in baseball or elsewhere in life. It really is straightforward...low confidence results in low performance and conversely, high confidence results in high performance.
Cherish it and don't let it diminish. You must do everything in your power to maintain and build your confidence. You said you are an inactive pitcher. You have to change your status from inactive to active! You stated that in high school you were a "dominant confident" pitcher. You had the skills necessary to dominate and thus you earned your confidence...true confidence. You sensed you had a spark and others noticed also...your spark is reigniting. You have to re-establish your base of confidence. You had that base once...you can build it again.
Your layoff from baseball may have been a good thing...you drifted awhile, but now you are becoming focused once again on baseball. This would not have happened if baseball did not mean anything to you...be thankful that your passion for the game is still there ...it's going to be helpful to you.
I am impressed that you were able to acheive success in baseball without the support of either of your parents. You stated "parents being involved is essential". Guess what? You, through your success earned without their support, proved that statement wrong! Pat yourself on the back! Talk about earning your confidence!
At one time you earned the respect and attention of someone who obviously knows baseball...your Youthservice.org coach. That was very good. He had you on his watch and follow list. He was even commenting on your progress to others. Again, very good. He essentially told you what he was looking for. This knowledgable, influential coach recognized your potential, but he wanted you to show him more confidence. That's what you needed to do then and that's what you need to do now.
Is he still accessible to you? Can you consult with him? If so, then I would recommend you do that. As Missouri-BB-Dad advised earlier...you will benefit from the wisdom and guidance from a competent and knowledgable adult. Since this coach already knows you, I would think he would be most helpful to you.
For some reason you were nervous at critical times and did not show your best stuff...your confidence did not match the circumstance. Why? Perhaps it was at that stage that you could have used the support from either of your parents...but remember what you accomplished without that support. Perhaps the stakes were elevated in your mind and this led to the nervousness. True confidence will overcome being nervous.
As I said earlier, you have to re-establish your base of confidence and build it up so that it will enable you to compete successfully at the level that you desire or choose. Do not get ahead of yourself...your earned confidence must take you where you need to go...do not get ahead of your confidence. It will require hard work and a focused dedication...but the passion is there...go for it!
If I were your parent, I definitely would be urging you to roll up your sleeves and get started...believe in yourself and don't worry. Seek advice...be realistic in assessing your potential and then become active again!
I wish you all of the success you can handle, Playmaker03! You were smart to seek help here, so please be smart and keep us posted on your progress...lots of us are pulling for you!
Missouri-BB-Dad offers some very good advice to you. I would advise you to follow his advice...it's sound.
It is my opinion that confidence is the most valuable asset that a baseball player possesses...especially a pitcher. True confidence is earned and respected and thus is substantive and very valuable. It enables you to perform at a successful level...in baseball or elsewhere in life. It really is straightforward...low confidence results in low performance and conversely, high confidence results in high performance.
Cherish it and don't let it diminish. You must do everything in your power to maintain and build your confidence. You said you are an inactive pitcher. You have to change your status from inactive to active! You stated that in high school you were a "dominant confident" pitcher. You had the skills necessary to dominate and thus you earned your confidence...true confidence. You sensed you had a spark and others noticed also...your spark is reigniting. You have to re-establish your base of confidence. You had that base once...you can build it again.
Your layoff from baseball may have been a good thing...you drifted awhile, but now you are becoming focused once again on baseball. This would not have happened if baseball did not mean anything to you...be thankful that your passion for the game is still there ...it's going to be helpful to you.
I am impressed that you were able to acheive success in baseball without the support of either of your parents. You stated "parents being involved is essential". Guess what? You, through your success earned without their support, proved that statement wrong! Pat yourself on the back! Talk about earning your confidence!
At one time you earned the respect and attention of someone who obviously knows baseball...your Youthservice.org coach. That was very good. He had you on his watch and follow list. He was even commenting on your progress to others. Again, very good. He essentially told you what he was looking for. This knowledgable, influential coach recognized your potential, but he wanted you to show him more confidence. That's what you needed to do then and that's what you need to do now.
Is he still accessible to you? Can you consult with him? If so, then I would recommend you do that. As Missouri-BB-Dad advised earlier...you will benefit from the wisdom and guidance from a competent and knowledgable adult. Since this coach already knows you, I would think he would be most helpful to you.
For some reason you were nervous at critical times and did not show your best stuff...your confidence did not match the circumstance. Why? Perhaps it was at that stage that you could have used the support from either of your parents...but remember what you accomplished without that support. Perhaps the stakes were elevated in your mind and this led to the nervousness. True confidence will overcome being nervous.
As I said earlier, you have to re-establish your base of confidence and build it up so that it will enable you to compete successfully at the level that you desire or choose. Do not get ahead of yourself...your earned confidence must take you where you need to go...do not get ahead of your confidence. It will require hard work and a focused dedication...but the passion is there...go for it!
If I were your parent, I definitely would be urging you to roll up your sleeves and get started...believe in yourself and don't worry. Seek advice...be realistic in assessing your potential and then become active again!
I wish you all of the success you can handle, Playmaker03! You were smart to seek help here, so please be smart and keep us posted on your progress...lots of us are pulling for you!
playmaker3,
If you truely have a desire to get back into baseball, Go for it.
Go back to the Coach that showed interest in you, and tell him your desire to give baseball another try.
I'm sure that he will steer you in the right direction.
Find one of his Catchers and start throwing.
Take it easy at first not to overthrow. Longtoss, longtoss, longtoss. That will help build up your arm strength.
before you know it your arm will be in great shape.
Have you thought about Junior College, are NAIA.
JUCO is a great place for a Pitcher to Hone his skills.
If your in Baseball shape by next Fall, they usaully have open tryouts for the baseball team that goes on for a couple of weeks in the fall. You would have to be enrolled their, but your already going to school. Find a Juco Program that could use an arm and go for it.
As far as Confidence, Your older now. Able to handle the pressure. Your the one with the Ball, not the Batter.
Who cares if he gets a hit, your defense has your back.
The Coaches / Recruiters are looking at how (You) handle that pressure. Show No Emotion, Cover your Positions. IE 1st Base-
Behind home, Backing up third all the little things that will make you stand out. And you won't have time to get Nervous!
Good Luck to you, and keep the fire burning. The EH
If you truely have a desire to get back into baseball, Go for it.
Go back to the Coach that showed interest in you, and tell him your desire to give baseball another try.
I'm sure that he will steer you in the right direction.
Find one of his Catchers and start throwing.
Take it easy at first not to overthrow. Longtoss, longtoss, longtoss. That will help build up your arm strength.
before you know it your arm will be in great shape.
Have you thought about Junior College, are NAIA.
JUCO is a great place for a Pitcher to Hone his skills.
If your in Baseball shape by next Fall, they usaully have open tryouts for the baseball team that goes on for a couple of weeks in the fall. You would have to be enrolled their, but your already going to school. Find a Juco Program that could use an arm and go for it.
As far as Confidence, Your older now. Able to handle the pressure. Your the one with the Ball, not the Batter.
Who cares if he gets a hit, your defense has your back.
The Coaches / Recruiters are looking at how (You) handle that pressure. Show No Emotion, Cover your Positions. IE 1st Base-
Behind home, Backing up third all the little things that will make you stand out. And you won't have time to get Nervous!
Good Luck to you, and keep the fire burning. The EH
playmaker
there are two roads in life the right one, and the wrong one.and they are not marked.luckily they intersect often so its easy to change your direction.i was brought up by my mom like you.she busted tail to get it done,wasn't allways at the game etc.so you have to be a strong person emotionaly and it sounds like your moving that way.go see that coach, i wouldn't be at all surprised if he doesn't think about you from time to time.ask for help thats all it takes sometimes.look at the help one statement got you here.have a goal,work towards it.even the longest journey starts with a single step.and remember your NEVER alone.
there are two roads in life the right one, and the wrong one.and they are not marked.luckily they intersect often so its easy to change your direction.i was brought up by my mom like you.she busted tail to get it done,wasn't allways at the game etc.so you have to be a strong person emotionaly and it sounds like your moving that way.go see that coach, i wouldn't be at all surprised if he doesn't think about you from time to time.ask for help thats all it takes sometimes.look at the help one statement got you here.have a goal,work towards it.even the longest journey starts with a single step.and remember your NEVER alone.
playmaker - Missouri gave you some wonderful advice. I'd follow it exactly.
I'd also suggest that you start working out to get in shape. This is not only a wise thing for you in general (can help with depression and focus) but if you get that baseball chance, you'll have a chance to actually compete physically.
There comes a point in our lives where we and only we can assume responsibility for what happens to us. Many folks have a rough time as a child, don't have the parental support that they should have, didn't get the breaks that others got. I'm sorry that this sounds like the hand you were dealt. However, now, only you can take control of your destiny which requires you pick yourself up, determine your goals in life, talk with a counselor, talk with some baseball coaches, get in shape, and start working on your baseball skills if that's what you want to be a part of your life. Where your life journey takes you at this point is primarily in your hands. The best of luck to you young man!
I'd also suggest that you start working out to get in shape. This is not only a wise thing for you in general (can help with depression and focus) but if you get that baseball chance, you'll have a chance to actually compete physically.
There comes a point in our lives where we and only we can assume responsibility for what happens to us. Many folks have a rough time as a child, don't have the parental support that they should have, didn't get the breaks that others got. I'm sorry that this sounds like the hand you were dealt. However, now, only you can take control of your destiny which requires you pick yourself up, determine your goals in life, talk with a counselor, talk with some baseball coaches, get in shape, and start working on your baseball skills if that's what you want to be a part of your life. Where your life journey takes you at this point is primarily in your hands. The best of luck to you young man!
Wow!! You guy here are the best!! I think if i would of had encouragement like this i would of been at a D-1 or D-2 school by now....You guys are really really helpful...and i will do all the things that you are advising to do....you know what i'm going to read this post every day for inspiration....thanxx
And by the way i'm a little sensative, but only because i live in this crazy new york enviroment
And by the way i'm a little sensative, but only because i live in this crazy new york enviroment
Ask yourself this question. When Im 40 will I regret the fact that I did not do everything possible to follow my dream? If the answer is yes you have no choice. Go for it with everything you have. Live with no regrets. I wish you all the luck in the world and I want you to come back here and tell us where you are playing and how you are doing. Good Luck
Here is a site that contains JUCO's in the NYC area. I think that researching these and talking to the baseball coaches might be a good place for you to start.
http://newyork.zami.com/Junior_Colleges_&_Technical_Institutes
Good luck.
http://newyork.zami.com/Junior_Colleges_&_Technical_Institutes
Good luck.
playmaker
what HS did you graduate from?
some of our coaches may know who you are?
what HS did you graduate from?
some of our coaches may know who you are?
Playmaker03:
Crazy New York environment? Never heard of it kid!
I'm so happy to hear that you're encouraged! Keep us posted...we're pulling for you!
quote:And by the way i'm a little sensative, but only because i live in this crazy new york enviroment
Crazy New York environment? Never heard of it kid!
I'm so happy to hear that you're encouraged! Keep us posted...we're pulling for you!
TRhit:
I Graduated from Morris High school in the Bronx...And i did go to The college Select showcase here in the cyclone complex...I wasn't all physically ready tho'.. I was on the purple team and Even one of the coaches realize my Unconfident problem...I remember the first Innin i pitched i got smacked....Then Coach came to and spoke to me. Told me to settle down get rid of butter flys...and i came out and I k-out the side
I Graduated from Morris High school in the Bronx...And i did go to The college Select showcase here in the cyclone complex...I wasn't all physically ready tho'.. I was on the purple team and Even one of the coaches realize my Unconfident problem...I remember the first Innin i pitched i got smacked....Then Coach came to and spoke to me. Told me to settle down get rid of butter flys...and i came out and I k-out the side
Playmaker - I don't know where your faith is, but I didn't mention the power of prayer earlier. I was talking with my son this morning and asked him if he prays anymore (the days of tucking him in and listening to his prayers are long gone!). He replied "No, I'm sorry Mom, I guess I've figured you do enough for us both". LOL He's probably right in some aspects! However, it's amazing how some faith and prayer can help you along any life's journey. Just a suggestion and my own personal opinion. Good luck to you!
Very nice thoughts, lafmom.
playmaker
Give me a call if you wish and let us see what we can do for you
Tom Rizzi
Consulting Director
College Select Baseball
800-782-3672
Give me a call if you wish and let us see what we can do for you
Tom Rizzi
Consulting Director
College Select Baseball
800-782-3672
Fantastic TR!!
Let this be a lesson for all those other ballplayers that might have called it quits to early.
There are people that will help you try to achieve your goals.
And this goes not just for baseball either, But anything that you persue in life. There's people that will help, all you have to do is ask.
Give it your best shot Playmaker.
If it works out Great. Let us know your progress.
You want to go out with no Regrets!!
Good Luck The EH
There are people that will help you try to achieve your goals.
And this goes not just for baseball either, But anything that you persue in life. There's people that will help, all you have to do is ask.
Give it your best shot Playmaker.
If it works out Great. Let us know your progress.
You want to go out with no Regrets!!
Good Luck The EH
gotwood4sale:
quote:
______________________________________________
Crazy New York environment? Never heard of it kid!
_____________________________________________
I'm very Greatful for the advice, and your time..
Your from the suburbs and You might think you know, but you really dont know how it really is. I live in what people call the "Ghetto" and all these stupid people out here get there priorities all mixed up...And IF you knew New York city is a place where Comodity comes before anything....So imagen An Angel Trying to live in hell...I'm lucky to have been giving a good example from Good-hearted people coming up here....
Let me explain a little....just put it like this.. Cop's get killed out here every day
All people care about here is...Making money, Partying, promiscuousness....it's also hard to find good friends out here.., And yes this the example that we get. I have decided somehow to take a different route.. I dont know why...Only he knows up there... I've been trying very hard to find my nitch in this enviroment...And baseball has been my armor from all these things....There is no inspiration here... i had to build my own inspiration and im struggling trying to find it
You guys still wont understand....
quote:
______________________________________________
Crazy New York environment? Never heard of it kid!
_____________________________________________
I'm very Greatful for the advice, and your time..
Your from the suburbs and You might think you know, but you really dont know how it really is. I live in what people call the "Ghetto" and all these stupid people out here get there priorities all mixed up...And IF you knew New York city is a place where Comodity comes before anything....So imagen An Angel Trying to live in hell...I'm lucky to have been giving a good example from Good-hearted people coming up here....
Let me explain a little....just put it like this.. Cop's get killed out here every day
All people care about here is...Making money, Partying, promiscuousness....it's also hard to find good friends out here.., And yes this the example that we get. I have decided somehow to take a different route.. I dont know why...Only he knows up there... I've been trying very hard to find my nitch in this enviroment...And baseball has been my armor from all these things....There is no inspiration here... i had to build my own inspiration and im struggling trying to find it
You guys still wont understand....
Playmaker....
I think you missed the smiley face at the end of gotwoods reply........I believe he is very much aware of what it take to make it in one of the world toughest cities.....
Keep trying....we will be pulling for you
I think you missed the smiley face at the end of gotwoods reply........I believe he is very much aware of what it take to make it in one of the world toughest cities.....
Keep trying....we will be pulling for you
Playmaker03:
Actually, I do know about that crazy New York environment...I don't live too far from that same type of environment here in Chicago.
I worked in the type of neighborhood you described for a few years...it wasn't easy working there, and I really could not imagine living there. Who am I to tell you about tough living conditions?
Since you took the time to enlighten us a bit more about your circumstance, I have to tell you that I could not be more proud of you, kid...you are going to succeed.
Instead of succumbing to your harsh environment...you are using the tough lessons that you've learned and you are conquering that environment. You are inspiring to me.
Keep up the good work...stay positive...always go forward.
You're making great decisions...don't stop, Playmaker03!
Please keep us informed of your progress. Thank you.
Actually, I do know about that crazy New York environment...I don't live too far from that same type of environment here in Chicago.
I worked in the type of neighborhood you described for a few years...it wasn't easy working there, and I really could not imagine living there. Who am I to tell you about tough living conditions?
Since you took the time to enlighten us a bit more about your circumstance, I have to tell you that I could not be more proud of you, kid...you are going to succeed.
Instead of succumbing to your harsh environment...you are using the tough lessons that you've learned and you are conquering that environment. You are inspiring to me.
Keep up the good work...stay positive...always go forward.
You're making great decisions...don't stop, Playmaker03!
Please keep us informed of your progress. Thank you.
Playmaker03,
You've been given some great advice and a great offer from TRhit. I don't want to step on any toes, but if that doesn't pan out for you, I'd like for you to consider another offer. I am looking for a good role model here at the camp. You would get paid in exchange for duties, but you'd also get access to all training and facilities for two months, getting you back in playing shape and ready for college ball. Give it some thought and good luck to you. Keep the faith, kid.
You've been given some great advice and a great offer from TRhit. I don't want to step on any toes, but if that doesn't pan out for you, I'd like for you to consider another offer. I am looking for a good role model here at the camp. You would get paid in exchange for duties, but you'd also get access to all training and facilities for two months, getting you back in playing shape and ready for college ball. Give it some thought and good luck to you. Keep the faith, kid.
slugger419er :
Can u give me more detail about this.
Like where i'm going to be staying..
salary.. how is the facility....The idea sounds great.. I could use some time away from the city
Can u give me more detail about this.
Like where i'm going to be staying..
salary.. how is the facility....The idea sounds great.. I could use some time away from the city