PRE-GAME ROUTINE

            We want to do a great job of presenting a unified front when we arrive at the ballpark. We want to gain every advantage we can. A well-disciplined team is an extremely focused and competitive team. If an opposing team sees that in us the moment we arrive at the ballpark we will have begun to start winning one of the many battles that take place between then and the last out.

 

TEAM TRANSPORTATION and ARRIVAL PROCEDURE

     

       We will travel to all away games as a team. Team transportation will be provided.

 

1. Once we are in the parking lot head straight to the field. If you see someone you know outside of your teammates and coaches, say hello and move on. Don’t linger.

 

2. All cell phones are to be turned off and put away before exiting the bus or van.

 

3. Once in the dugout put your bags in an orderly fashion so people aren’t tripping over them all game long.

 

TEAM STRETCH and INFIELD

     

        A championship team is more times than not the team that can maintain their focus and energy for the longest amount of time. Focus needs to begin once we head out to stretch. Have fun but be professional.

     

       After stretching has been completed find a partner and begin to get your arms loose. Take pride in this part of your warm up. Nothing looks less intimidating than a college level team chasing errant throws because players aren’t willing to have a purpose for each throw. It is the little things that will help us to win consistently. If we don’t have that laser focus and purpose before the game, we probably won’t perform well during it.

    

        Infield is another place we can start winning the battle. An energetic and precise infield will go a long way in sending a message to the opposing team. Firm accurate throws from the outfield through the cutoff men will cause opposing coaches to be less aggressive on the base paths with their players. That alone may save us a run which may well win us a game.

 

NATIONAL ANTHEM

     

    We want to properly honor all of those who have served and are currently serving our great country. We can do this by showing complete respect during the National Anthem.

 

1. At home all starting players will be on the field for the anthem. Outfielders together in centerfield, infielders together by the second base bag, the pitcher behind the mound and the catcher with the umpires at home plate or with the pitcher behind the mound..

 

2. Each players glove should be on the ground directly in front of him

 

3. You should hold your hat in your right hand over your heart

 

4. Your left hand should be behind your back

      

All non-starters and coaches will stand the same way (minus the glove) in a straight line in foul territory along the baseline.

 

It is expected that everyone stand at attention with limited movement and absolutely no talking unless you are singing along with the anthem.

 

*If any player has an issue with being present and standing for the National Anthem they must first meet with Coach Bottenfield and discuss why they feel they can’t. In any case there will be no protest on the field during the National Anthem or at any time immediately preceding, during or after a game. I certainly will protect and support your Constitutional right to free speech and to hold an opposing view but it is my personal opinion the field of competition is not the time or place for it.