If your young player's got his sights set on high school ball, you’re in for a ride because it’s not just about the swings and strikes; it’s about the whole experience. We’re serving up some solid strategies—from evaluating skill levels and finding the right coaching to keeping a balanced diet and managing expectations. Plus, we’ll sprinkle in some dad wisdom about making those travel tournaments not just a grind, but a chance for unforgettable family memories. So, grab your glove and settle in—we’re all about making this journey as enriching and enjoyable as possible!

Podcast Partner Bios

Ethan Dungan - Owner of Glovehound Baseball Glove Repair Shop. Ethan played for several teams during his career including Midland and Fairfield High School. He now operates Glovehound from his shop in Fairfield, OH.

Rick Finley - Founder of MD&I Academy Baseball Training Facility in Fairfield, OH. Rick has successfully coached and trained hundreds of players at the Select, Travel, and College levels in both baseball and softball.

George Foster - Major League Player with the Giants, Reds, & Mets. NL MVP 1977, 5-Time All-Star, Silver Slugger and member of the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame. Founder of George Foster Baseball where he offers private baseball instruction.

Timestamps:

• 00:10 - Introduction to the Guests
• 03:28 - The Parents Guide to Advanced Baseball
• 30:40 - Load Management and Youth Sports
• 39:54 - Support and Perspective in Youth Sports
• 59:04 - The Importance of Balancing Sports and Academics
• 01:08:29 - The Cost of Commitment: Balancing Travel, Time, and Team Dynamics
• 01:26:45 - Supporting Young Athletes: The Parent's Role

Key Takeaways:

• Make sure to get an honest evaluation of your child's baseball skills before diving into higher level play.
• It's crucial for parents to support their kids' academic performance while pursuing baseball ambitions.
• Establishing a positive home environment can significantly impact a young athlete's performance and mindset.
• Developing a solid plan for managing time and finances is key to supporting your child's baseball journey.

Links:

• glovehound.com
• mdaiacademy.com
• georgefosterbaseball.com
• twocreativedigital.com

Teaser:

Next week we talk about how to watch a baseball game. From our favorite stadium food to the little details that George, Rick, and Ethan look for during a trip to the ballpark, we'll share it all. Plus an epic trivia showdown to wrap the first half of season 1. Don't miss it!

Companies mentioned:

• Glovehound
• MDI Baseball Academy
• George Foster Baseball