Good afternoon. Last week I challenged players to set some goals for the next 60 days in preparation for the spring season. I have been encouraged by the feedback I have gotten from several players I have talked to. Once you have set these goals, tell someone (parent, teammate, friend, etc) so that you create accountability. Make sure your goals cover at least three areas:

• conditioning & core training (one of the biggest favors you can do your body is to start the spring season in top shape, ready for the work load). Make sure you are splitting time between running for distance and sprints. A cardio workout that combines the two is optimal.
• commitment to baseball skills development. Set goals for how often you are going to touch the ball, how often you are going to swing the bat, how often you are going to get fungo. Executing this goal may be the toughest because of the potential need for a partner. I encourage you not to fall victim to the excuse of "there was not anyone to play catch with, hit with, etc"....figure it out.
• mental skills. Start to journal some thoughts on where you feel your strengths and weaknesses are: at the plate, on defense, on the mound. Come up with some mental cues that will help you put adversity behind you and stay focused on the next play, the next pitch. I used to write a bible verse on an index card and fold it up and put inside my wristband. 
   

Christmas gift idea - gift cert to apply to participation fee's 

 A handful of families have asked about ABC gift certificates that can be purchased my family members or friends and applied to participation fee's. Please feel free to have a relative or friend interested in helping off set participation fee's contact us for info on how to purchase a gift certificate for your ball player.

Saturday 12/8 - field clinic

ABC is hosting a field clinic at Balcones. 9:00-10:00 OF's & C's; 10:00-11:00 INF's. Registration link is on the ABC fall home page or click here to register. 

Sunday 12/9 - ABC World Series game #4 (check website)

Reminder to review the schedule for this Sunday (12/9). Game #4 game schedule has been posted on the WS home page. Reminder, games will be played at two separate ball fields: Balcones Sports Complex and Bechtol Harper Field (located in front of downtown YMCA). Reminder to pay close attention to the specific color of pants your team is assigned to wear. Please let me know if you have any questions concerning directions.

*coaches notes from Game #3 are posted. Click here to review.

Monday 12/10 - ABC annual Christmas gathering

ABC summer, fall, and winter ball players and families are welcome for a time of fellowship on Monday evening at our annual Christmas fellowship. Special guests are John & Jordan Danks. Click here for more info and to RSVP.

ABC 2013 spring team and summer ball meetings

ABC is in the process of reaching out to current (and former) ABC families regarding their plans for spring ball (2017 grads) and summer ball (2013-2017 grads). Please take a minute to review the calendar posted on the ABC website listing dates and opportunities for your family to attend a meeting or conference call designed for returning families. Next scheduled meeting opportunity is this Sunday at both indoor academies. Click here for calendar.

 Develop impact varsity baseball players, through innovative training, weekly workshops and game day experience

Go Take on the game,

Coach Prater 

 @gotakeonthegame