more normal than you think…in Normal, Illinois

The team is on a 4 week trip playing a combination of professional, international, and all-star teams. We
have had some close and not so close games within the last week. I know everyone thinks that we are
winning and just rolling over the competition, but we are all working on something at every moment
whether it is our speed, leads off the bases, fielding, new pitches or hitting. The last being the most
difficult…according to me:) Defense has been my strong point ever since I was young, but I work hard to
be consistent on my offense. Hitting as so many players know comes and goes. If you get out 4 of 10 at bats
then you are considered a great hitter. But on the flip side you “failed” 6 times!!! It can drive you crazy.
Take it from me I know better than anyone, you have your good days and your bad days. Sometimes I feel
like I’ve never swung a bat before in my life and other days it is as natural breathing. The goal is to
minimize the bad days. Don’t over analyze and harp over every aspect of your swing. I have been there too.
Maybe it’s my hands, maybe it’s my timing, maybe I should pre stride or not, or maybe I need to change
my swing all together. Work on things in practice if you are struggling, but in the games you gotta zone out
and just see the ball hit the ball. Keep working hard and don’t let your mind get in the way:)Have
confidence and remember when you show up to the field: ”Your perfect swing is the best one you can make
today. It can be improved later through more learning and practice, but right now it’s the best one you’ve
got. It’s the one you brought with you…” ( Zen Golf- Dr. Joseph Parent). So no worries and let it happen.
Buy in to your plan and jump in with both feet. So for now good luck and remember even olympians
struggle too. The difference between the good and the great is how quick you bounce back.