Those of you who have been around BCBA for a while, and those of you who have been to our Indoor and Summer Camps/Clinics, know first-hand that we rarely talk about wins and losses – the coaching staff and instructors talk about playing the game the right way, playing with integrity and character, playing as gentlemen, and playing as a team. The “We Train Champions” adage is that we consider A Champion not necessarily to be those who win games, but those who take losses or challenges as opportunities to learn and grow. We consider A Champion to be one who never gives in even when he appears beaten. We see A Champion as a person who is resilient and continues to compete regardless of the situation. We see A Champions as one who plays as a teammate, with self-discipline, and selflessly…one who gives up personal success for team success. It is often difficult for payers to not be aware of personal stats since baseball is frequently discussed in numbers. It is not easy putting aside personal success for team success, but as a college coach and a high school head coach, players that comport themselves as such are the foundation of a successful program.
A Champion is one who plays with respect for his opponent, his teammates, his coaches, his parents, the umpire, and for himself. We see A Champion as one who takes responsibility for his own success and failure does not transfer blame to others such as the umpire, the other team, the mound, the dirt, the coach. Leaders and great coaches hold this philosophy as the base of their constitution and speak to their players and athletes about this frequently.
Baseball is a very difficult game, and there is a lot of failure. At times, honestly, the game is just unfair. It is important for the players to understand these concepts. It is necessary for coaches to talk with the team frequently about these items. Also, the reality is that very few ball players will play high school ball, even fewer play college, and the very talented and fortunate will have an opportunity to play professionally. BUT, we hope that each young player has a chance to grow into adulthood, with a career, and a companion (and maybe kids if he chooses). Hitting the ball the other way, staying down on a hard hit ground ball, or throwing a curve ball are little help then. But understanding self-discipline, being resilient, and just competing every day – these are skills that will help each ball player as a man. That’s what baseball coaches are really teaching – Being A Champion!
Good Stuff Dan