Best Fastpitch Podcasts (2025)

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College coaches are judged with a short attention span / Include hitting even in short practices / Managing feedback / Practices and training are preparation for "Test Day" 58:53

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19h ago58:53

58:53

Welcome to this week's edition of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep with Coach Tory and Coach Don. The episode covers various segments, including highlights like 'Did You Know?', which discusses the rapid changes in collegiate sports, specifically pointing out the firing of Penn State's James Franklin. The 'City of the Week' is Kansas City, …

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Coffee Talk E8 | Support: Seeing the Person Behind the Performance 8:27

11h ago8:27

8:27

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson brings the final chapter of the mental health series to a heartfelt close, reminding us that true coaching begins when we see the human before the athlete. He shares a personal story that changed his approach forever and offers practical ways to recognize emotional red flags, build trust, and create environ…

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Episode 34: Nick French 1:03:03

2h ago1:03:03

1:03:03

Rutgers University pitching coach Nick French joins Jay and Ken to talk about how he got started as a pitching coach by coaching his high school classmates when he was 14, the importance of data and analytics in developing pitchers, what it was like coaching the USA Softball Men's 23U team in international play, and some of his takeaways after coac…

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108: Behind the Scenes of Professional Baseball with Hana DeGuzman, CMPC 42:31

1d ago42:31

42:31

On this week's episode, I sat down with our former Community Manager and Mental Performance Consultant, Hana DeGuzman. We go down memory lane on her path from college softball to working with the MLB across the Minnesota Twins organization as a Mental Performance Coach. She shares the practical tools she uses to help athletes reset under pressure i…

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Episode 194 - Nicole May 1:10:52

3d ago1:10:52

1:10:52

Outside The Chute sat down and chatted with 2023 All-Big 12 First Team selection, 2021 Big 12 All-Freshman Team selection and the only pitcher in NCAA history to capture 4 National Titles, Oklahoma Sooners alum, the one and only, Nicole May. This was such a fun chat with Nicole. We talk about how she got her start in the game, her travel ball time,…

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Episode 33: Jay and Ken on Coaching Young Players v College, Plyo Balls, Multi-Sport Athletes, Trusting the Process 50:21

7d ago50:21

50:21

Jay and Ken talk about the similarities and differences between coaching youth players v college players, including expectations. They then touch on the use of plyo balls (good and bad), and the challenges of coaching as well as being a multi-sport athlete. They finish with a general discussion about the need to trust the process rather than expect…

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Financial landscape of women's sports / Post-game/practice stretching / Lower-tier pitcher on a top-tier team / Bunting - Confidence Matters 59:41

8d ago59:41

59:41

In this week's edition of 'Everything Fast Pitch' by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Tory and Coach Don cover a variety of compelling topics. The episode opens with updates on the Milwaukee Brewers' playoff status, delving into the legacy of Bob Uecker. Pittsburgh, PA is highlighted as the city of the week, and the Fort Worth Cats are celebrated as the team…

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107: 5 Things That are Wrecking Your Athlete's Ability to Perform 40:07

8d ago40:07

40:07

In today's episode, I dive into five essential, recurring issues that are wrecking youth athletes' performance and potential. This episode is a must-listen for both parents and athletes struggling with that "invisible block" between practice excellence and game-day performance. Episode Highlights: • Negative effects of not getting enough sleep • At…

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Coffee Talk E7 | Climate: What Kind of Environment Are You Creating? 8:32

8d ago8:32

8:32

☕ In this episode of Coffee Talk, BJ dives into the power of climate, the culture and energy surrounding our athletes, and why it can make or break their love for the game. Whether you're a coach setting the tone at practice or a parent shaping the ride home, today's conversation challenges every adult in youth sports to take inventory of the envir…

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Episode 193 - Jimmy Moore 1:05:39

10d ago1:05:39

1:05:39

Outside The Chute were lucky enough to sit down with one of the best pitchers to ever play our game, its ASA, ISC and USA Softball Hall of Famer, the one and only, Jimmy Moore. In the words of Doug Roberts, Jimmy could “hit the dick off a hummingbird”, no word of a lie, he said that in his episode with us! That just shows you how accurate and deadl…

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Re-Release: Jon Gwizdala 1:02:27

15d ago1:02:27

1:02:27

Jay and Ken talk to Jon Gwizdala, former pitcher with USA Softball's Men's team, former head coach at Jackson College, and current assistant coach at Davenport University, about his playing days, his coaching journey and philosophy, and what he looks for when recruiting players.

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Coffee Talk E6 | Burnout: Protecting Athletes’ Joy in the Game 8:40

15d ago8:40

8:40

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson digs into burnout in youth sports, and why even the most dedicated athletes can hit a wall when the joy fades. You’ll learn how to spot the early signs of burnout, why balance matters more than endless reps, and how parents and coaches can protect athletes’ love for the game. From rest counts to joy checks,…

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Balancing Multi-Sport Athletes / Measuring Player Development / Coaching to win vs coaching not to lose 31:15

15d ago31:15

31:15

In this week's edition of 'Everything Fast Pitch' by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Tory flies solo as he records episode 390. The episode covers several segments: a warmup discussing the upcoming Mary Nutter Classic featuring the Japanese Olympic team, highlights Houston, Texas as the City of the Week, and celebrates a Player of the Week for her dedicatio…

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106: How Faith Powers Performance with Laurèn Schiek 33:21

16d ago33:21

33:21

This week, we are re-airing our May mentorship call with Laurèn Schiek, retired softball player and podcast host. She explains how maintaining her identity in Christ rather than in softball outcomes allowed her to play fearlessly and persevere through injuries, coaching changes, and a life-changing diagnosis. Episode Highlights: • Emphasizes having…

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Episode 192 - Natalie Wideman 1:15:55

19d ago1:15:55

1:15:55

This week, Outside The Chute was excited to sit down with Olympian, World Championship medalist, and longtime member of the Canadian Women’s National Softball Team, the one and only, Natalie Wideman. Nat has had an incredible career in the game, representing Canada on the biggest stages, including the 2020 Tokyo Olympics where she helped capture br…

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Post practice & game cool down / Nurturing a new catcher / Teaching stubborn players / Relying on only stats is a bad idea 1:00:21

22d ago1:00:21

1:00:21

In this episode of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Tory and Coach Don discuss various topics, starting with a historical segment about renowned softball pitcher Eddie Feigner. The episode highlights Duluth, Minnesota as the City of the Week and celebrates a Player of the Week for her dedication to improving her skills. An equipment …

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105: How I Became a Full-Time Mental Performance Coach - Wins, Mistakes, Lessons Along the Way 51:29

23d ago51:29

51:29

In today's episode, I share my unfiltered journey from softball coach to full-time mental performance coach, revealing the struggles, mistakes, and pivotal moments that shaped my business success. Joining me are fellow mental performance coaches to ask questions and create a transparent discussion about the realities of building a mental performanc…

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Coffee Talk E5 | The Mental Game: Turning Nerves Into Confidence 7:03

23d ago7:03

7:03

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson begins a 4-part series on mental health in youth sports with the challenge every parent and coach knows too well: pressure. From practice standouts who freeze in games to athletes who overthink when the lights are on, BJ breaks down why nerves aren’t weakness, they’re biology! You’ll walk away with practica…

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Episode 191 - Summer Recap 56:58

26d ago56:58

56:58

Yes sir, we’re back and this one was a fun one for us. We do a summer recap covering the ISC’s, Senior Nats, U17 Nats, Canada Games, our Shooter’s League and so much more. We’re happy to be back doing our weekly episodes, so buckle up and get ready for a wicked lineup going forward!By outsidethechute

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Hand Injuries / Gentle Sports Parents / Document Achievements / Proactive Practice 44:03

29d ago44:03

44:03

In this week's edition of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Don and Coach Tory record episode 388. The show covers various segments, including 'Did You Know,' 'City of the Week,' 'Player of the Week,' 'Equipment Tip of the Week,' and a 'Listener Question.' Key topics discussed are strategies for handling adversity inspired by Amanda S…

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104: Parents: How to Help Your Athlete Create Routines to Stay Self-Motivated 42:07

30d ago42:07

42:07

We're taking you back to 2023 with a parent workshop on: The Power of Routines and Accountability. I dive into the importance of building consistent habits that emphasize self-reflection and ownership to create resilient competitors who can bounce back from mistakes. Episode Highlights: • Mental skills work best when treated consistently, regardles…

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Coffee Talk E4 | Righties vs. Lefties: A Lesson in Leadership 4:17

30d ago4:17

4:17

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson uses a powerful softball analogy to highlight a lesson that goes far beyond the diamond: leadership isn’t about dividing, it’s about uniting. By comparing right-handed and left-handed hitters, BJ shows why diversity, balance, and respect for different perspectives create true strength, in sports, in familie…

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Episode 32: Jay and Ken on Changeup, Offspeed, Sept 1, Transitioning to College 1:00:26

1M ago1:00:26

1:00:26

This week Jay and Ken dig deep in the value and strategies for the changeup, what pitchers need to do to maximize its effectiveness, some things to avoid when developing the pitch, and how to determine if a pitcher's changeup is where it should be. They also talk about September 1 and what it does - and doesn't - mean to players looking to play in …

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Utility of Various Hitting Tools / Tournament Schedules / College Games as a Learning Tool 44:41

1M ago44:41

44:41

In episode 387 of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Tori and Coach Don cover a wide range of topics including player highlights, equipment tips, and listener questions. They start with the 'Did You Know' segment featuring Megan Wiggins, a former Georgia softball star now playing for the Savannah Bananas' opponent team, the Tailgaters.…

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103: How the 4 B's got Courtney Wyche to the Pros 29:50

1M ago29:50

29:50

This week, we are sharing our April mentorship call with Courtney Wyche, a professional softball pitcher for the New York Rise. She shares her journey from self-taught pitcher to professional athlete competing internationally with insights on mental toughness and developing your personal brand. Episode Highlights: • The Four B's: Breathe, Be in the…

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Coffee Talk E3 | Fall Ball: Building Players vs. Chasing Trophies 7:07

1M ago7:07

7:07

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson tackles the hot topic of fall ball and what it’s really for. Is it about chasing medals, or is it about building players for the long run? BJ shares why fall tournaments should be treated as evaluation season, how coaches can use this time to experiment and build depth, and why athletes and parents need to …

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Episode 31: Emma Lemley 57:15

1M ago57:15

57:15

Virginia Tech standout pitcher and AUSL star Emma Lemley joins Jay and Ken to talk about her early career as a four-sport athlete, her journey to and time at Virginia Tech, how she worked with Josh Johnson, and what she learned from her first season in the women's professional league. Emma also gets specific on pitching, talking about the importanc…

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C Flap vs Cage / Finding a Tournament / Tough Lineup Decisions / Mental and Physical Aspects of Hitting 51:46

1M ago51:46

51:46

In episode 386 of 'Everything Fast Pitch' by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Don and Coach Tory discuss various segments including 'Did You Know,' featuring a debate on regional terminology for skin abrasions. The City of the Week is Jacksonville, Florida, and the Player of the Week is recognized for her resilience. Equipment Tip of the Week highlights Squa…

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102: How Nutrition Impacts Mindset with Amber Brueseke 44:47

1M ago44:47

44:47

On today's episode, Amber Brueseke, founder and owner of Biceps After Babies and mom of 4, shares how she helped thousands of women use macro counting to build nutrition plans that are both effective and enjoyable. We explore how focusing on nutrition awareness—not restriction—can dramatically improve athletic performance while building a healthier…

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Coffee Talk E2 | Daddy Ball: The Truth About Parent Coaches in Youth Sports 7:29

1M ago7:29

7:29

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson takes on one of the most debated topics in youth sports: Daddy Ball. Whether you’ve rolled your eyes at the term or lived through it, there’s no denying that parent coaches are the backbone of baseball, fastpitch, and slowpitch. This conversation dives into why parent coaches matter, the sacrifices they mak…

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Episode 30: Katie McKay Phillips 1:01:42

2M ago1:01:42

1:01:42

Join Jay and Ken as they speak with former D1 player and former Johnsburg (IL) High School head coach Katie McKay Phillips about her recruiting journey, her record-setting playing days at Charleston Southern University, and her transition to coaching travel and high school softball. Katie also talks about the challenges of balancing coaching, holdi…

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New NCAA Seeding / Building a new high school program / First Aid Emphasis / Strength Training / Raspberry or Strawberry 1:05:25

2M ago1:05:25

1:05:25

In this episode of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Don and Coach Tory discuss various topics related to softball, including new NCAA rules for seeding the top 32 teams starting in 2026 and recognizing Clearwater, Florida as the City of the Week. They highlight the Fast Pitch Prep player of the week and the importance of strength tra…

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101: The Power of Knowing Your Why with Ashley Trierweiler 27:27

2M ago27:27

27:27

Today, we are airing our February mentorship call with Ashley Trierweiler, a professional softball player with the New York Rise. Coach Kara and our Warriors interviewed her about her softball journey, revealing how faith helped her overcome mental challenges and position changes to succeed at the highest level. Episode Highlights: • Her faith in C…

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Coffee Talk E1 | September 1st: The Truth About College Softball Recruiting 5:52

2M ago5:52

5:52

☕ In this Coffee Talk episode, BJ Johnson dives into the truth about September 1st, one of the most anticipated and misunderstood dates in softball recruiting. Whether your phone is blowing up or sitting silent, this day doesn’t define your future. Learn why September 1st matters, why it doesn’t, and how athletes, parents, and coaches can use the w…

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Jorge Araujo: From Player to Program Builder | CAUGHT UP W/ Randy Kaye 055 1:07:26

2M ago1:07:26

1:07:26

Send us a text Jorge Araujo has built a reputation as both a passionate coach and a culture-builder, guiding athletes to reach their potential not just on the field, but in life. From his own playing days to leading programs at the highest level, Jorge’s journey is a story of perseverance, faith, and purpose. He opens up about the lessons learned f…

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Episode 29: Jay and Ken on Perspective, Keeping It Fun, College Rules Scholarship Changes 55:11

2M ago55:11

55:11

Jay and Ken offer advice to parents, especially parents of younger travel ball players, on keeping games and tournaments in perspective, and thoughts to coaches on keeping the game fun for their players. They also talk about the trial of the orange safety base in college, the loss of scholarships and even entire college programs, the effect of NLI …

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Little League Softball Viewership / Junior Colleges and Recruiting / Bring in Experts 52:24

2M ago52:24

52:24

This episode of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep with Coach Tory and Coach Don discussing various topics related to fast-pitch softball. This week's warmup segments include 'Did You Know,' City of the Week, Player of the Week, and the Equipment Tip of the Week. Highlighted topics include the rising popularity of softball as evidenced by the…

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100: 100th Episode and Where are We Headed?! 33:04

2M ago33:04

33:04

We are celebrating 2 years of the podcast and our 100th episode!!! This week, Team Fearless sits down to discuss what we've learned over the years and where we're headed. This special episode reveals the passion, purpose, and people behind the mission to bring mental performance coaching to athletes across the country. Episode Highlights: • Discove…

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Episode 28: Jay and Ken Talk Rest, Goals, Pitching Drills 52:09

2M ago52:09

52:09

In this episode Jay and Ken talk about the importance of rest/taking time off after the season for both physical and mental rejuvenation. They also talk about the importance of setting goals for coaches as well as for players, and get into some of their favorite pitching drills among other topics. It's a great way to put a wrap on the 2025 season a…

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Turf Fields / Playing on a weaker high school team / Energy for situational drills / Top tier teams stockpiling pitchers / Infield Fly highlight 1:06:20

2M ago1:06:20

1:06:20

In episode 383 of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coach Don and Coach Tory discuss various ways to enhance softball practices, including how to make situational drills more efficient and game-like using tools like the 'two ball drill.' They explore the phenomenon of top-tier teams collecting talented pitchers and the implications for play…

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099: How the Psychology of Money is Affecting Your Family with Rachel Coons 34:09

2M ago34:09

34:09

We have a special treat for you this week. I sat down with Rachel Coons, founder of Money Mom Club. We explore how money mindset impacts youth athletes, revealing practical strategies for supporting athletic journeys without transferring financial stress onto your kids. Episode Highlights: • Having conversations with children about the value of inv…

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Episode 27: Helen Pena 1:17:34

2M ago1:17:34

1:17:34

Helen Pena joins Jay and Ken to talk about her journey from D1 pitcher to Head Coach at Ball State University and how this Californian ended up in the Midwest. She describes the qualities she looks for in players (and prospective student athletes), her program's Six Pillars of Success, how she established a strong culture at Ball State, and the val…

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Count and hitter's advantage / Input from different coaches / Benchwarmer on Varsity vs playing on JV / Practice better with outfielders 55:05

2M ago55:05

55:05

In episode 382 of Everything Fastpitch by Fastpitch Prep, Coach Don and Coach Tory discuss various topics pertinent to fastpitch softball. They highlight the end of the inaugural AUSL team season, featuring the Talons as champions, and debate the unconventional naming of these teams. Albuquerque, New Mexico, is celebrated as the City of the Week, a…

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098: [RE-RELEASE] How Jordy Bahl Uses Mental Skills 40:04

2M ago40:04

40:04

This week, we're going down memory lane from our LIVE in-person Guest Speaker Event with Jordy Bahl from our Fearless Warrior Retreat a few years ago. I am re-releasing this most popular episode because of Jordy's authenticity on and off the diamond. If you already listened once or twice, it's worth another listen! Episode Highlights: The importanc…

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Youth softball on TV is great / NIL Distribution / Handling didn't make the team / Player's role in development 50:55

2M ago50:55

50:55

In this week's edition of Everything Fast Pitch by Fast Pitch Prep, Coaches Tory and Don as hosts. This episode promises a fun and informative lineup, including a 'Did You Know' segment on Little League Softball TV coverage, recognition for Irvine, California as 'City of the Week', and Payton Harris from Mediapolis, Iowa as 'Player of the Week'. Th…

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Episode 190 - Dawn Bodrug 54:26

2M ago54:26

54:26

Outside The Chute sat down with one of the rising stars of Canadian softball, 2024 WBSC World Cup Bronze Medalist, Stoney Brook University alum and current member of the Canadian Women’s National Team, the one and only—Dawn Bodrug. Dawn grew up in Georgetown, Ontario, where her passion for the game was sparked at an early age. Her journey took her …

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Re-Release: Shawnee Harle 59:53

3M ago59:53

59:53

Lots of things can happen through a long season to shake a player's (or a coach's) confidence. And once you're in that hole it's hard to dig your way back out. But with the season now either over or almost over it's a good time to look at improving the mental game, and mental toughness specifically. In this re-release, mental toughness coach (and t…

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097: The Four Absolutes of Development with Danielle Gallagher 34:52

3M ago34:52

34:52

On today's episode, I interviewed Danielle Gallagher, also known as Coach D. She shares her innovative approach to athlete development through the "Four Absolutes" framework, helping female athletes unlock their full potential by addressing mental performance, nutrition, movement, and hormonal awareness. Episode Highlights: • Post-performance logs …

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Episode 189 - WBSC Men's World Cup Recap/ISC Preview Show 52:56

3M ago52:56

52:56

Outside The Chute have Blair and Kyle back again, as we recap the WBSC Men's World Cup that took place in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and then we take a dive into the ISC's as we preview the World Tournament coming to us from Mankato, Minnesota.By outsidethechute

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Episode 26: Jay and Ken Talk Tryouts 1:01:16

3M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

We are back with a brand new episode! In this one, Jay and Ken talk all things tryouts. They offer their thoughts on questions players and parents should ask, what to look for in a team, how to determine the right level to play (including why sometimes for younger players taking a step down to increase their playing time might be the best option), …