Championship Thinking in Sports - Jim Meier

Championship Thinking in Sports – How Can I Best Coach an Athlete with ADHD?

billschiffler — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:15:06 +0000

How can I best coach an athlete with ADHD? In various ways this question has been asked of me by youth, HS and college coaches nationwide. That is, by A+ coaches with greater awareness and observation skills about their player’s behavior. Guest, Dr. Harry Croft*, M.D., with over 30 years in private practice, is board certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. In non-clinical, layman’s language, Dr. Croft shares information and tips about AHDH focused on the basics, causes, symptoms, prevalence, implications, and what a coach (and parent) can do. Do what? Assist an athlete manage ADHD so it does not interfere with his/her development and performance. You host, Jim Meier, also shares the checklist he uses with coaches to help them pin point an athlete behavior associated with ADHD. *Dr. ‘Harry’ as I know him, a national expert in PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), has diagnoses over 6,000 veterans since 1973 and has participated in the development of many of the psychiatric medications which are now in use for depression and anxiety disorders. The national acclaimed book, I Always Sit With My Back To The Wall, which he co-authored with Reverend Dr. Chrys Parker, J.D., with a step-by-step R.E C.O.V.E.R. plan, tells the PTSD story as it really is.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Remember American Gold Star Mothers: They lost a son or daughter in the service of our country

billschiffler — Mon, 14 May 2012 17:12:10 +0000

Sports in the United States and this Championship Thinking in Sports radio show wouldn’t exist if it were not for the service and sacrifice of the men and women in our military. This is why I periodically devote a show focused on our warriors and their families. Doing this show about American Gold Star Mothers the week of Mother’s Day seems appropriate. With enlightened voices and a deep love and passion for our country, guests, Norma Luther, President-American Gold Star Mothers (AGSM) and Pat Mracek, President-Nebraska Gold Star Mothers (NGSM) share: 1. A brief history and purpose of American Gold Star Mothers, 2. Information about their sons who fought and died for our country: Norma-Glen P. Adams, Jr. Captain, U.S. Army and Pat-Cory R. Mracek, SGT U.S. Army and 3. A few of the ASGM and NGSM many activities: A) Wreaths Across America, and B) examples of how they support veterans, active duty personnel the reserves, National Guard and families of the warriors. Norma and Pat also discuss the best way to engage and be respectful to Gold Star family members. This includes honoring the AGSM motto: Perpetuating the Noble principles for which they fought and died.

Championship Thinking in Sports – How Well Do You Use Your Four Gifts From birth?

billschiffler — Mon, 07 May 2012 15:43:11 +0000

You, me, everyone as human beings receive these four powerful, wonderful gifts from birth:
1.Self-Awareness=knowledge of our individuality as well as our past, present and days ahead,
2.Free Will=capability to make choices, 3.Conscience=the inner sense of what is right or wrong in both motives and action, and 4.Creative Imagination=ability to invent; to bring something new into existence (technical, social, economic, etc.). In my work with businesses, schools and sports organizations, I teach these four gifts in workshops, formal presentations and one-on-one advising/coaching. This is the core of Championship Thinking skill development. This show brings these gifts alive with two examples: 1.Guest Bob Oettinger*, president of the International Baseball Association (IBA) and vice president of its non-profit arm, International Baseball Academy of Central America (IBACA).shares how IBACA is promoting the growth of baseball throughout the world through the construction of baseball academies/schools facility in Nicaragua. Former major leaguers Reggie Smith, Dave Stewart, Brad Lesley, Frank White and Kelly Stinnett are involved with the organizations. 2.How a runner on 1st base uses his self-awareness, free will, conscience and creative imagination to decide to steal 2nd base, or not. *Bob has worked in corporate and non-profit management, fund raising, planning, public relations and promotions for more than 25 years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s in public relations from the University of Southern California.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Touch ‘em all! Mookie Wilson on the Finer Points of Base Running

billschiffler — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 04:01:37 +0000

Mookie’s back! Join New York Mets Hall of Famer, Mookie Wilson*, for this informative show on base running skills. Far too many games are won and lost because players are not fundamentally sound on the pads. With today’s bats performing like wood of old, less runs are scored. Thus, each run counts more and that requires upping base running IQ. Tune in to learn how to wisely work your way around the bases as Mookie teaches you how to touch them all. *Mookie played 10 years with the Mets, two with the BlueJays and was a Mets coach eight years. He is currently studying to be a minister and donates extensive hours to the growth and development of the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Radar in Sports: Tremendously Useful but Much Underused

billschiffler — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 20:17:22 +0000

As your show host, I regularly beat this drum: to be excellent in sports you need these five core components working for you hand-in-hand: Information, Motivation, Skills, Fitness and Equipment/Tools. This show zeroes in on one of the more powerful tools: RADAR. Guest Steve Goody*, founder and co-creator of Pocket Radar shares examples and stories about how radar has helped individuals and teams develop, improve and become champions. Steve also gives insights to how radar, as a device for measuring speed, provides many advantages in sports. These are: creating feel, improving control, greater consistency and added safety and health. Tune in to a) reinforce what you know about radar, and, b) learn how to take full advantage of this terrific measurement and assessment tool in sports. You’ll also learn about the defining features that make the Pocket Radar a tool that helps produce champions *Steve is Chief Officer and co-founder of Pocket Radar Inc., and a co-founder of Invention Planet, LLC. Pocket Radar manufactures the world’s first pocket-sized sports radar gun for use by coaches, players, and fans. Steve has spent many years as a hardware system architect and designer. He has held senior positions with Caymas Systems, Cerent Corp., Cisco, Next Level Communications and Hewlett Packard.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Do you know your golf personality?

billschiffler — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:36:41 +0000

Just as all people have personality differences, the same holds true for all people in their sport(s) of choices. However, few athletes truly know their sport personality including the strengths and hurdles that accompany it. This knowledge void keeps them from systematically notching up their performance. For this reason, I developed the Golf Personality Profile* with its 16 different types. Look, we all have strengths to capitalize upon and hurdles to overcome or minimize. What a shame to not know them! Guest Bob Miller**, who completed and scored the profile, and I talk through golf tendencies natural to him. We also discuss golf personality tendencies of Master Champion, Bubba Watson, runner up Louis Oosthuizen as well as Phil Mickelson and Jack Nicklaus. All who are different in their approach to the game. *Based on the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), most widely used theory on personality types, which originated in 1917. Jim Meier, MBTI certified in 1991, has extensive experience administering and interpreting the questionnaire one-on-one and to teams in sports, business, heath care, government, not-for-profits and the military. **Bob has 48 years of birdies, pars and bogies under his belt. An accomplished golfer, he won the 2011 Nebraska Senior Match Play Champion and was a spectator at the 2012 Masters.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Brett Reed, Head Basketball Coach-Lehigh U.-Lessons from the 2012 NCAA DI Tournament

billschiffler — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 23:48:33 +0000

I caught up with Brett Reed*, Head basketball Coach at Lehigh University two days following the NCAA DI basketball Championship game he attended. Brett’s team a #15 seed, defeated # 2 seed, Duke, in the opening round and gave perennially strong Xavier all they could handle in round two. Coach Reed’s teams each year have steadily moved to the top of the Patriot Leagues pack. So you might ask, “What is it about Brett’s coaching and leadership that brings about these sound results.” For answers, tune in for Brett’s answer and his thoughts about: 1. his coaching philosophy, 2. views on player development, 3. assisting young people grow, gain poise and be enthusiastic about life in and out of basketball, and, 4. the interplay between offense and defense. In his 10th year at Lehigh, 5th as head coach, Brett is only one of three DI basketball coaches who hold a doctorate degree. His academic work, with emphasis on how biology, sociology and psychology combine to create human well-being is applied daily as a basketball coach.

Championship Thinking in Sports – ABCA 2012 Best-In-Show (Part 2)

billschiffler — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 04:01:05 +0000

Tune in to learn about the final four of nine super baseball products selected as Best-in-Show at the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) 2012 convention. (The first five were featured in last week’s show). Each year, from over 300 vendors, 10-12 are chosen as having the Best-In Show products and services. Selections are made by John and Patrick Pinkman www.pinkmanbaseball.com and Lou Pavlovich, Jr., Editor-Collegiate Baseball www.baseballnews.com. To make their selections, John, Patrick and Lou visit vendor’s booth, ask questions, assess the products and services. Since every ABCA member cannot make the convention and even those that who are there cannot visit all the booths, I thought I’d bring Best-In Show information to you in this two part series. This shows remaining Best-in-Show line-up is: A) Jim Rickon (Owner/inventor) Product: The Bat Jack Baseball and softball bat grip training aid that develops the proper bat grip that improves the power and control within a player’s swing. Ensures a hitter’s fingers are properly aligned on the bat. See it here. www.thebatjack.com, info@thebatjack.com B) Dr. Stacy Fuchino and former major leaguer, Dave Leeper, Owners/Inventors. Product: Click and Swing. Helps train any batter to get into the strong hitting position. A “clicking” mechanism located in the glove allows for a perfect practice swing every time. No batteries, with or without a bat, simply hear the click for a consistently perfect-position swing. www.clickandswing.com 1-310-863-0816, C) Brad Barker (General Manager) Product: Lizard Skins. Dura Soft Polymer (DSP) baseball and softball bat grips that are slip resistant whether wet or dry, light weight and optimizes for feel and control. It comes in 1.1MM or 1.18 MM and multiple colors www.lizardskinsbaseball.com 1-801-229-9099 and D) Craig Pollard, Owner/Inventor Product: Tater Grip. Tater Grip is a single piece shrink-to-fit grip that fits over the handle of a baseball or softball bat, tennis racket, hockey stick, etc. Easy to apply and maintain and very durable. www.tatergrip.com 1-800-573-8033. Each product is used at the youth, HS, collegiate and professional level.

Championship Thinking in Sports – ABCA 2012 Best-In-Show (Part 1)

billschiffler — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 04:01:28 +0000

The American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) annual convention draws between 4-5 thousand college and high school coaches and over 300 vendors. I love attending for these reasons: 1. Three days of quality clinics 2. Opportunities to meet new people & catch-up with friends. 3. Experience what is new and refined in baseball products and services. Each year 10-12 vendors receive Best-In Show products and services honors. Selections are made by John Pinkman and Patrick Pinkman www.pinkmanbaseball.com and Lou Pavlovich, Jr., Editor of Collegiate Baseball www.baseballnews.com To make their selections, John, Patrick and Lou visit vendor’s booth, ask questions, assess the products and services. Since every ABCA member cannot make the convention and even those that who are there cannot visit all the booths, I thought I’d bring Best-In Show information to you in a two part series. This shows five Best-in-Show line-up are: 1. Dr. Tom Hanson, (Owner/Founder) Product: Play Big Books . An enjoyable and educational mental toughness story about teaching a young player how to Act Big, Breathe Big and Commit Big. www.PlayBigTraining.com 1-813-968-8863, 2. Sonny Cerneka (Owner/Founder) Product: Baseball Renewer and Dryer. Baseball cleaning and drying machines used by all major league teams and many college, HS and youth programs. www.baseballrenewer.wordpress.com 1-626-336-9586, 3. Brenton Sullivan (Owner/Founder) Product: Field Level Breakthrough digitized recruiting software for coaches seeking players, coaches seeking to place players& players themselves. Makes recruiting faster & more reliable at less cost. www.fieldlevel.com 1-888-816-8220, 4.Chaz Henry (Owner/Founder) Product: Power Chalk A no-software-required web based tool to analyze motion with video. 24/7, world-wide accessibility for player improvement. Uses interactive diagrams & split screen comparisons www.powerchalk.com 1-919-469-0180, 5.Ron Imbriale (Sr. VP U.S. Sales) Product: Datfish Motion and Video software that provides remote coaching player and game analysis. Fast capabilities to tag/index key situations and teaching points from an entire videod game. www.dartfish.com, info@dartfish.com

Championship Thinking in Sports – Creating a Championship Environment for Baseball and Life

billschiffler — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 04:01:24 +0000

Guest Greg Lauder*, 12 head baseball coach at Butler HS, Louisville KY, epitomizes the best in player development in baseball and life. To quote Bishop Desmond Tutu, “Live as if you’ll die tomorrow; learn as if you’ll live forever.” Greg, an avid reader and learner, applies and consistently imparts life lessons to himself and his players. Tune in to hear his successful methods for creating a championship sports environment: He focuses on; a) expectations, b) player/coach and parent/coach relationships, c) connection and responsibility to the community, and d) the important of having and maintaining a quality facility. Expect Greg to share lessons he’s learned from other Championship Thinking in Sports shows since he has listened to over 30 of them, some 3-4 times. *Greg has twice been names Kentucky HS baseball Coach of the Year. With a 63% winning record, his teams have earned 11 district championships, 1 regional championship and a state final appearance. Greg teaches both U.S. History and Sociology.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Mookie Wilson on Attitude, Baseball and Serving Disadvantage Youth

billschiffler — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 05:01:40 +0000

Join New York Mets Hall of Famer and Mr. Positive Attitude, Mookie Wilson*, for this informative, entertaining inside-the-park homerun show. With impressive speed and balance, Mookie touches all the bases: 1st =Attitude, 2nd=lessons from his coaches, 3rd=Giving back by serving disadvantaged youth and sliding safely at home with a three person wrap up, Mookie, Fred Plump, National Commissioner, Metropolitan Junior Baseball League and host, Jim Meier. Will he discuss game 6 of the 1986 World Series that has forever tied a knot around him and Red Sox 1st Baseman, Bill Buckner. Tune in to find out. Mookie played 10 years with the Mets and two with the BlueJays and was a Mets coach eight years.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Our Two Cents Worth on Moneyball

billschiffler — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 05:01:35 +0000

The book and movie, Moneyball is about how, in 2002, the Oakland A’s, under the leadership of its General Manager, Billy Beane, flipped the process for assembling baseball players on its head. That process: taking a much more analytical, evidence-based approach driven by the key measures of on-base percentage and slugging percentage vs. the more traditional qualities of speed and contact. (Web search-Sabermetrics). This risky, untested leadership decision has today, made a significant mark in professional baseball with many Major League teams using it or creating their own versions. Show guest Steve Baker*, and I share our assessment of Moneyball’s value, and there certainly is value, while also not discarding what remains four key player make-up factors: personality, psychology, intelligence and relatedness. Ultimately, Moneyball is about leadership. Steve is the Commissioner of the Mid-South Conference. Prior to this work he was President and CEO of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and Vice-President of Marketing and European Operations for Major League Baseball International. Following his baseball career he earned his MBA from the Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Jack and Rex: Affirming the ‘Act’ in Character

billschiffler — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 18:48:11 +0000

A major reason for this show is to provide guests recognized for significantly acting with character. On Feb 26, 2008 the Championship Thinking in Sports show was Courage Through Character with guest Jerry Kindall, former major leaguer and U. Arizona Head baseball coach from ’73-’96. The annual Fellowship of Christian Athletes Baseball award is titled the Jerry Kindall Character in Coaching Award.
This show’s guest, Rex Burkhead, is a shining example of an athlete who affirms and acts on his character with courage. On the football field Rex, a senior U. of Nebraska running back, performs at an elite level. His honors, awards and stats speak for themselves. So expect to hear a little about character in football but expect to hear much more about acting with character in life. Tuning in is your field box ticket for learning how life touchdowns are made.
You’ll hear the story of the deep and growing friendship between six year old Jack Hoffman and his hero, Rex. It’s about the love, support, care and strength Rex has given Jack who strives to make first downs and move the chains. You see, Jack suffers from a rare pediatric brain tumor called a low grade glioma. It’s about how Jack’s strength of character including not complaining has further awakened Rex to the power of the human spirit; a power that has spurred him on to dig deeper to go the extra mile.
Jack’s Caring Bridge web site is www.caringbridge.org/visit/jackhoffman

Championship Thinking in Sports – Closing the “I Taught It-Did They Get It” Gap

billschiffler — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:01:29 +0000

Coach, have you ever wanted more ways for players to more quickly and effectively understand and execute what you teach them? This show helps with that. Stan Luketich*, a 36 year outstanding high school baseball coach, shares his communication tips for closing that pesky teacher-coach/player-student learning and application gap. Included is an approach that: establishes trust, checks for understanding, breaks down the skill, uses visualizing language, provides a feel for the skill, obtains timely, specific feedback and gives demonstration.
*Stan currently teaches special education at Desert Vista HS, Phoenix, AZ. After college ball at Northern Arizona, he coached at Northern Colorado U. and with the Detroit Tiger organization. His HS teams have won three state championships. He is a member of AZ High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame and received the American Baseball Coaches Association 2012 Ethics Award in Coaching.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Growth of International Sports Benefits Global Relations

billschiffler — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 17:08:56 +0000

Guest Tony Dress, former college baseball head coach, has coached baseball and softball and coached at the youth, Jr HS and HS level internationally since 1993. Countries include New Zealand, Germany, the Czech Republic, Italy, Spain, Norway, Sweden and Slovakia. In this show, Tony’s passion and zest for developing players well as helping them open their minds and hearts is front and center. Through examples and stories he gives first hand insights about the immediate and lasting benefits-on and off the field-of traveling to play in foreign countries. As Tony shares the rapid growth of baseball and softball across the oceans, you’ll gain a sharp appreciation for why kids love to play abroad and where to go to learn more.

Championship Thinking in Sports – ABCA Update: 2012 Convention and NCAA Legislative Items

billschiffler — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:01:33 +0000

Dave Keilitz, 18 year Executive Director*, ABCA provides timely updates on four major topics improving and impacting amateur baseball: 1) The 5 pillars of the 67th Annual Convention scheduled Jan 5-8 in Anaheim, CA., 2) Review results of 2011 changes: Pitch clock and bat standards, 3) NCAA Baseball legislation topics under review: reducing games from 56 to 52, APR qualifications and scholarships, and 4) Major League Players Association shift from Aug 15 to July 13 for signing cut-off date. *Dave Keilitz: 1964 1st team All-American, 14 year head coach Central Michigan U. (69% winning %), 51 players advanced to pro ball, recipient of numerous baseball awards.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Why Hire a Veteran

billschiffler — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 18:35:33 +0000

We should thank, honor and salute all military personnel-active duty and veterans. We should also hire veterans. Sadly, in my work and travel, I hear stories where employers shy away from them. It doesn’t make sense. This show with guest, Jason Bousquet*, provides 10 core reasons to hire veterans with emphasis on these four: 1) Leadership, 2) Team player, 3) Performance under pressure, and 4) Discipline. These are also traits that separate athletes from being average, to good, to better, to superior. Yes, there are many solid links between developing military and athletic skills. Tune in to deepen your knowledge.

*Jason is a leader within the Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) team. The Center’s mission is to make all small businesses better. He oversees The NBDC Veterans Assistance and Services Program (VASP) which works with military personnel in starting and growing a business. Jason served on active duty in the U.S. Air Force for 11 years before transitioning to the Air Force Reserves where he is a major assigned to U.S. Strategic Command Global Strike.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Connecting Dots: College Baseball after Serving in Iraq and Afghanistan

billschiffler — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 14:12:55 +0000

Guest Joey Falcone, Staten Island College right fielder, is very appreciative & thankful to his coaches & teammates for their supportive relationship on & off the field. He told me their support is a key for making baseball fun. And it has paid off! This year Joey earned conference Rookie-of-the-Year honors & a spot on the All-Star team. Prior to this student-athlete chapter of his life, Joey served tours of duty in Kuwait, Iraq & Afghanistan including combat missions as a Marine Corps medic. The essence of his job: keep wounded soldiers alive. This show explores Joey’s unconventional path to college & back to the baseball diamond. Tune is for a lively interview about moving onward, upward and outward. Topics host, Jim Meier, discusses with Joey are:

1. Comparing baseball competition to serving in a war zone

2. Joey the HS player and Joey the college player…what’s the same? What’s different?

3. The decision to not re-up and instead return to civilian life, school and baseball

4. The value of military discipline and training

In the spirit of transparency, I have this bias. When military personnel return to civilian life, once properly guided and mentored, they make excellent employees and entrepreneurs.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Be an Animal

billschiffler — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:32:44 +0000

An athlete can highly improve his/her range of performance by leaning to mirror and adopt animal behaviors. In my sports psychology and sports hypnosis work, there are times teaching a player or coach to “becomes an animal” is a useful technique. Tune in to hear examples about how this is done and the results that followed. You’ll hear about: A) Paul, a 6’4”, 215 lb pitcher, turned wolverine, B) Megan, collegiate tennis standout, guarding and attacking the court like a cheetah, and C) Dan, the defensive back becoming a vigilant, laser-focused hawk in effortless glide. I love being in the presence of animals; observing and learning from them. I also love an animal’s ability to laser focus, release energy, channel strength and instinctively create opportunities. And, in my professional work, I love helping create the mental game edge in sports. There is no guest for this show. Like the eagle I fly solo.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Cures for Common Technical and Mental Putting Ailments

billschiffler — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 14:34:08 +0000

Among the finest aspects of golf is putting. You don’t need to hit the ball 300 yards or shape a 165 yard 7 iron shot out of the first cut. No, putting is the great equalizer because anyone who golfs can get a put to the hole and in it. That is, if you have and use a few good technical and mental game skills. And this show will cover. You host teams up with repeat guest, Jerry King*, Director Kapalua Resort’s golf instruction program since 1995 and key player in the creation and design of the Kapalua Golf Academy. Key topics are: 1) The most common technical putting mistakes most amateurs make, 2) Jerry’s mental game routine and, 3) the top 4 mental game putting tips from your host, Jim Meier

Jerry has contributed an extensive array of instructional articles to local and national publications, and has been featured eight (8) times on The Golf Channel’s “Golf Academy Live” in Orlando, Florida. Under his leadership, the Kapalua Golf Academy is recognized by GOLF Magazine in its “Top 25 Golf Schools in America”. Jerry is currently recognized as a GOLF Magazine “Top 100 Teacher.”

Championship Thinking in Sports – DI Baseball Coach of the Year Leads Team through Turbulence to Triumph

billschiffler — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:04:13 +0000

What do you do as a head baseball coach? It’s September 2010 UC-Berkeley. The fall semester and baseball practices have begun. Unexpectedly you’re told, for budgetary reasons, the baseball will be cut after the 2011 season. This show is the behind the scenes story of what Dave Esquer* 12th year UC Berkley Golden Bears head baseball coach did. This is a lesson in leadership! With clear recall and a matter-of- fact, candid voice, Dave walks through how and what he told his coaching staff and the team and from there what transpired through fall ball, the regular season, the regional and super-regional championships and trip to the College World Series. This is a story worth hearing loaded with insights you can use as a leader-coach. *2011 National Coach of the Year. As a player, Esquer was the starting shortstop on Stanford’s 1987 national championship squad. As an assistant coach, he helped produce six NCAA postseason teams and one World Series participant at Stanford and Pepperdine.

Championship Thinking in Sports – ‘Weather’ Well in Rain, Wind, Cold and Heat

billschiffler — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 16:12:19 +0000

Why do some golfers melt down or freeze up in bad weather conditions while others perform masterfully? This show gets to the heart of that question with 32 year golf professional, Don Germer* and your host, Jim Meier providing answers and remedies. Together Don and Jim give first-hand insights about physical, mental and technical ways to minimize the effects of playing golf in wicked weather. With these tools in your knowledge bag, you’ll be able to enjoy the thrill of hitting good shots whether it is 35 degrees, 105 degrees, in a driving rain or minor snow flurries. *Winner of Nebraska PGA section Match Play Championship and Nebraska PGA Senior Championship.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Heroes of the Diamond

billschiffler — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 04:05:02 +0000

Over the 6 years I’ve hosted Championship Thinking in Sports, I’ve directly included shows that link youth, sports and services of our military and first responders as well as referencing my involvement in events that ensure we honor and remember those who have and continue to serve us. In this show I am delighted to do so again with guests Naren Aryal, author, publisher, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Mascot Books and Terry “Crash” Allvord, combat veteran who founded Heroes of the Diamond and over fifty single service armed forces baseball teams in the modern era. The power of this show is its clear message simplicity of how families can combine being together, enjoying baseball and thanking those that protect our safety and freedoms. Terry tells the story behind his recent children’s book, Heroes of the Diamond and the historic Red, White and Blue cross-country tour with the Ground Zero Flag which will culminate 9-11-11 in New York City.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Priceless Insights from the U. Virginia-U. California-Irvine Super Regions

billschiffler — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:52:17 +0000

Mike ‘Roons’ Rooney* is a color analyst for ESPN college baseball broadcasts. John Pinkman** writes for Collegiate Baseball and has a long, impressive record of developing high school players into successful college performers. Both ‘Roons’ and John were live June 11-13 at the U. Virginia-U. California-Irvine Super Regions while I watched most of it in on TV. This show provides priceless insights from our observations. What will be discussed? A three games series loaded with significant ebbs & flows, contrasts in coaching, weather influences and raw display of toughness, smarts, integrity and most surely resiliency. This series was a rare technical, physical and mental game test. *Mike Rooney, 4 year player at the U. of Notre Dame, ’89-‘92 averaging 47 wins, has 15 years in coaching including 6 seasons as an assistant baseball coach at Arizona State University & 3 seasons as head Baseball coach at Phoenix College. He has coached 17 players who have reached the “Big Leagues”, including Dustin Pedroia-Red Sox & Andre Ethier-Dodgers. ** John is an author, adviser to athletic programs nationally, owner of Pinkman Baseball Academy and lead in selecting the ABCA DI college pitching coach of the year.

Championship Thinking in Sports – 2011 DI Baseball: CWS New Home and Results of New ’11 Rules

billschiffler — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 05:01:20 +0000

Tune in to hear from Dennis Poppe*, NCAA’s go-to guy for DI Baseball and Football. In this show Dennis gives his candid take on Omaha’s new home for the College World Series, TD Ameritrade Park, the pangs of leaving Rosenblatt, how the new bat specifications and pitch clock has served to protect the integrity of the game-there have been significant statistical difference in 2011- and considerations for future post-season baseball formats. *Now is his 37th year with the NCAA, Dennis is responsible for the oversight of all issues related to DI baseball and Football. Primary among these responsibilities are: coordination of playing rules, liaison with coaches associations, licensing, monitoring and coordination of legislative issues.

Championship Thinking in Sports – 11 Mental Game Points For Post-Season Play

billschiffler — Mon, 30 May 2011 05:01:06 +0000

A quick study of Sam Houston State U. head baseball coach, Mark Johnson*, tells you that the not only knows baseball but that he wins in post-season play. This includes consistent advancement in conference, regional, super-regional tournaments. In ’93 and ’99 coach Johnson took his Texas A&M teams to the pinnacle of college baseball-the College World Series. In this show, Mark gives his eleven simple and proven mental game points for highly increasing the odds of achieving post-season victories.

*Highlights: 41 years college coach, 26 as DI head coach head at Texas A&M & Sam Houston State, all-time top 15 in victories among active head coaches, recipient of the Jerry Kindall Character in Coaching award and ABCA Ethics in Coaching award among many others. From ’69-’71 Mark played professionally in the New York Mets organization

Championship Thinking in Sports – Excellence in Athletics Does Not Occur by Accident

billschiffler — Mon, 16 May 2011 05:01:16 +0000

Guest Dr. Frank Spaniol serves as a Professor of Sport Science in the Department of Kinesiology at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi where he teaches bio-mechanics, measurement and evaluation, research design, and directs the bio-mechanics and sport science research laboratories. His primary research interests include testing and evaluation of athletic performance, strength and conditioning for athletic performance, bio-mechanical analysis of human movement, and computer technology. Dr. Spaniol is an applied sport scientist and has conducted numerous research studies with amateur, collegiate, and professional athletes, including Major League Baseball Organizations. In this show Dr. Spaniol provides ways coaches and trainers can improve their athletic testing methods which leading to fewer injuries and eliminating waste-of-time training. Specific include testing for physiological skills, athleticism and mental game skills.

Championship Thinking in Sports – More Sports Organizations Supporting Military Warriors and Their Families

billschiffler — Mon, 09 May 2011 05:01:14 +0000

The need and therefore, the opportunity is growing for sports organizations in all communities, regardless of type or size to assist our military warriors and their families. It is communities that can take positive and powerful actions on behalf of military warriors and their families: helping them be and feel connected, know they are cared for and never forgotten. And more communities are! In this show, guest Colonel David W. Sutherland, Special Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff for Warrior and Family Support addresses this need and how he and his staff are engaging communities at grass root levels. Topics include a) Clarifying the need…what correspondent Bob Woodward reference to it as a “Growing Epidemic of Disconnect”, b) why communities are the backbone, the center of gravity-for leadership, empathy, training and maintaining relationships a) the sports-military link c) examples of local community actions including Boston, Phoenix, Omaha, golf organization, professional sports and the state of Virginia, d) striving for holistic balance-the ‘trinity’-education, employment and access to health care for life. Tune in to better understand what you personally can do as an athlete, coach, sports parent, etc. Remember, the ripple effect…even the smallest act can lead to extraordinary achievement.

Championship Thinking in Sports – I Still Hear the Echoes…More Lessons from the 2011 Masters

billschiffler — Mon, 02 May 2011 14:57:26 +0000

Nearly a month after the Masters professionals and amateurs still love talking about this year’s Masters; me too. This is especially true when the chat zeros in on the 15th Club-lessons from the mental game. Show guest James Kinney picks up where the April 18 show left off. James is a Class A PGA and three time Nebraska PGA Teacher of the year. Having been to the Masters, competed in Nation Wide Tour events and given over 7,500 golf lessons the past six years, James understands golf. As he shares his observations of the 2011 Masters, he provides a) tips on his own preparation for bigger events, b) his personal process for managing tension, stretching comfort zone, recovery from a mishit shot, bad hole or poor round, c) fundamental advice for amateurs when competing in leagues, tournaments even scrambles, and d) the value of taking technical and mental game lessons.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Develop Stronger, Healthy Pitchers: The Full Year Approach to Conditioning

billschiffler — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 14:37:08 +0000

Far too many pitchers at all levels experience unnecessary arm fatigue, soreness and recovery time as well as minor to severe injuries. It need not be that way. This show, with guest Patrick Pinkman* details the year long process for how to properly condition pitchers. Specific mind sets & methods will be discussed for all four seasons of the baseball year: winter, spring training, during games and post-season. Each phase has distinctly different aspects of conditioning to do and to avoid. Tune in to learn what they are. Patrick, his father, John and brother, Jeff operate Pinkman Baseball Academy in Reston, VA. Specializing in pitching and hitting, their customer base is world-wide and many of their ‘students’ of the game have successfully played at the collegiate level. He also writes for Collegiate Baseball. Patrick pitched for Virginia Tech from ’97-’02 where he earned Freshman of the Year honors, Atlantic 10 Rookie of the year and selection to the state of Virginia All Star team. He also was chosen as co-pitcher of the year in the Cape Cod League

Championship Thinking in Sports – AH! The 2011 Masters: Its Roars, Sounds of Silence & Priceless Lessons

billschiffler — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 05:01:53 +0000

It is fitting that Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus hit the opening ceremonial tee shots at the 2011 Masters given how it played out. Both have repeatedly experienced the roars, msounds of silence lessons the Masters doles out among the crowd and within themselves. Such roars and silence take us to the core of the mental game-the pressure, the nerves, the anxiety, fear of failure, self-doubt-and offers golf tips for getting better at dealing with these ‘demons’. In this how, PGA apprentice, Brett Lehr, and I zone in on the play and personality types of Rory McIlroy, champion Charl Schwartzel, Tiger Woods, K.J. Choi, Adam Scott, Jason Day and others to reveal some of these priceless tips. As individuals and collectively they presented us with the richest of lessons that we can use to improve our game and more deeply appreciate golf itself.

Championship Thinking in Sports – How Do You Develop Outstanding Umpires: Tune in and Make the Call!

billschiffler — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 05:01:40 +0000

It is a huge mistake to downplay the importance of the role, responsibility, skills and character of an umpire. In fact, the truly great ones often elevate baseball to higher levels through the exercise of superior judgment, feel for the game, impeccable integrity & remaining laser focused under pressure. This show details the 7 core principles that for becoming an outstanding umpire including ways to teach those principles with guest. Dick Runchey. Dick is Executive Director-Amateur Umpires Baseball Association (AUBA), Amateur Baseball Umpires Association, NCAA Regional Advisor Umpire Improvement Program and former Director of Umpires International Baseball Federation. Dick, who epitomizes greatness in umpiring, is perhaps the most respected amateur umpires world-wide. Earlier this month he was selected into the College Baseball Hall of Fame-the 1st umpire so chosen. Dick’s umpiring experience includes: minor leagues, over 20 seasons in college ball, 19 NCAA DI regional tournaments, College World Series five times with 4 championship games behind the plate. Dick, who has received numerous awards and has selected, taught and evaluated countless umpires.

Championship Thinking in Sports – My Toughest Pitcher Decisions and How I Make Them

billschiffler — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 05:01:05 +0000

Join guest Derek Johnson* for this rare opportunity to learn how one of the most successful DI college pitching coaches makes tough pitcher decisions. This includes off-season recruitment and development, rotations, roles and of course those ever critical in-game situations. You’ll learn how Derek factors in personality, mental smarts and toughness as well as physical skills and maturity. *Derek is in his 9th year at Vanderbilt University and has 18 years DI pitching coach experience. Last year he was promoted to Associate Head Coach. In ’04, he was chosen Collegiate Baseball’s National College Pitching Coach. Four of his last seven staffs led the Southeastern Conference in ERA and were ranked 15, 7, 17 and 13 nationally. Under his leadership, 22 pitchers have been drafted including 16 over the last five years.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Self-Belief vs. Self-Doubt: Battle of Mental Game Heavyweights

billschiffler — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 04:35:35 +0000

All successful coaches and athletes have developed the ability to create and sustain a strong sense of self-belief. It is a must. This show teaches how with host, Jim Meier, and guest Erik Kibler, 28 year head baseball coach at Horizon HS, Phoenix, AZ. Specific sports psychology methods coupled with examples and stories will be shared. Eric has consistently emphasized teaching belief and visioning skills in what is arguably among the top 5 HS baseball programs nationally. He is regarded by many as one of the finest teachers of the game; player development has always been a common thread of the Husky program. Horizon Baseball is one of the perennial top programs in Arizona, and has led them to five 5A State titles, repeated national recognition and a number one nation ranking one in 2007. Coach Kibler is a three time recipient of the Arizona Coach of the Year award and a three time recipient of the Western Region Coach of the Year. In 2005, he received the top honor when he was named the ABCA High School National Coach of the Year.

Championship Thinking in Sports – There is Such a Thing as Baseball IQ: Do You Know What Yours Is?

billschiffler — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 05:01:36 +0000

Dummies do not excel in baseball. Period! The game simply demands a wealth of knowledge and a plenty of mental smarts. Guest Dr. Dirk Baker*, Head Baseball Coach, Worcester State College, teams up with host, Jim Meier, to test your baseball IQ. Using the baseball IQ test developed by Dirk and Jim’s mental game of baseball workbook, plan to be tested and challenged. What’s the payoff? You will a) learn, relearn and unlearn about the game and yourself, b) be more motivated to notch up your performance and, c) strengthen your ability to be calmer and more confident when your comfort zone is being stretched. *Dirk, among the most successful D III coaches with over 300 wins, is a pure student of baseball, people and integrating the two. Few people, including coaches, have done the depth and breadth of research and study he has. (See his article in Collegiate Baseball Volume 3 No. 54)

Championship Thinking in Sports – Do You Know the Power of Questions and How to Ask Them?

billschiffler — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 16:25:03 +0000

Very successful people, coaches and players included, ask good questions. In fact, they ask better questions than others. Few people have truly been taught the art of asking powerful questions. The more useful and This show does that. Topics are: 1) the eight powers of questions, 2) Day to Day questions coaches should be asking, 3) example questions for specific situations plus reinforcing stories. Remember: Always the more beautiful answer to those asking the more beautiful question! Guest Paul Niggebrugge* and host Jim Meier are co-teachers in this fast moving content rich show. *Paul, a former player on the Temple Owls CWS team and with the Mets and Red Sox organizations, has coaches and instructed thousands of youth. He founded Be Your Best academy, has presented at national sports conventions, and is former AD and has coached HS sports 27 years.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Great Coaches Listen with the Head and Heart: Here’s How

billschiffler — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 05:01:44 +0000

Do you want to learn how to be a better listener? Tune in! Guest Rex Sanders* Executive Director, Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association, has agreed to be an active student-teacher for this show with host Jim Meier leading the ‘clinic’. No one argues that one attribute of great coaching is the ability to effectively listen with both the head and the heart. Nor, based on studies I’ve read and discussions I’ve had, have many coaches received listening training. “Listen Up” does not count! Jim has taught listening skills for 36 years. In this show he will a) explain why most people are poor listeners, b) teach the six step listening L.A.D.D.E.R. and c) differentiate between head listening and heart listening. Listening exercise and examples will be given *Rex will also give tips, methods and examples of how he learned to be a better listener and questioner based on 37 years as a HS history teacher and 34 years HS coaching-baseball and football.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Lessons from the book: Praying For Gil Hodges

billschiffler — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 05:01:08 +0000

In writing the masterpiece, Praying For Gil Hodges, guest Tom Oliphant* gave the world a unique gift. The gift? Valuable lessons in harsh reality & disappointment, resiliency, hope overcoming doubt, relentlessness and how the Dodgers, in the blue-collar New York borough, Brooklyn, subordinated 5 previous World Series losses to the Yankees to win in all in ’55. Tom, who with his parents, growing up in a two room apartment in lower Manhattan, lived this story and shares priceless nuggets of that time and experience. Tuning in you’ll come away wiser, refreshed and more equipped to coach and play. *Tom, Harvard University graduate and correspondent for the Boston Globe, has received numerous writing awards including a Pulitzer Prize in ’75 for his coverage of desegregation in Boston. He has been a frequent guest on television news programs, including Nightline on ABC-TV, The NewsHour with Jim Lehrer on PBS, Face The Nation, the Today show, Good Morning America and CBS This Morning.

Championship Thinking in Sports – What Scouts See and Teach…and Why You Should Care!

billschiffler — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 05:01:54 +0000

Bill Gentry*, Director of Baseball Operations and Head Coach for the St Louis Cardinal Scout Teams in Southern California has over 25 years scouting, professional playing and DI coaching experience. As a scout, he earns his success and dollars spotting, assessing, helping develop and recommending players he believes can compete professionally. This show tells you how Bill does it? Topics include observing for and working on mechanics, performing in the clutch, temperament, resiliency, handling adversity, baseball smarts, coach ability, drive and integrity. Bill will share stories of the good, the bad and the ugly he’s experienced in each of these areas. He also shares tools of the trade that change his profession. Bill also owns the Pro Player Academy of Baseball in California. www.proplayeracademy.com

Championship Thinking in Sports – Bridging the Gap in Player Development: Youth through Professional

billschiffler — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 05:01:54 +0000

Guest Jerry Weinstein* is extremely baseball smart and savvy with 50+ years in the game. Among his many baseball roles are: minor league manager, head of major league player development for several teams, college and professional coach & U.S. Olympic team coach. His successes are extensive in patiently and wisely honing baseball talented players into a full package. With stories & example, Jerry gives practical, specific advice on how to bridge the gap for developing excellent players. This includes: 1) doing this effectively at the youth, HS, collegiate and professional levels and, 2) development of the whole player: physically, technically, psychologically and spiritually. *Jerry is in his 5th year managing the Modesto Nuts. He has served in several roles for the Dodgers and Rockies and has managed minor leagues teams for the Cubs, Brewers and Expos.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Do You Have Mentor? Do You Choose Your Mentors Wisely?

billschiffler — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 20:26:52 +0000

Skilled and caring mentors open up the richness, value, depth and breadth of life to us on and off the field of play. Guest Victor ‘Bubba’ Cates*, 12 year head baseball at University of Tennessee at Martin continues to lives the values of those who mentored him. In his 21 years as a college baseball coach he has paid it forward by skillfully mentoring many players and fellow coaches. Among his many honors and awards, is the prestigious Jerry Kindell Character in Coaching which he received Jan 8, 2011 at the American Baseball Coaches Association convention. In this show Coach Cates and I team up to provide information and tips on these mentoring points: choose a mentor, how to mentor, and how to wisely use a mentor.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Insights and Answers to the Growing Concussion Problem in Sports

billschiffler — Mon, 17 Jan 2011 17:37:26 +0000

Dr. Jill Brooks* gets to the heart of the concussion problem in sports by addressing these and related questions; 1) just what is a concussion, 2) detection signs/symptoms for coaches & parents, 3) impact on athletics, academics & socially 4) the broader health risk, and 5) minimization/prevention…answers that make sense. Dr Brook, who sees 6-7 athletes a day for concussion related issues, is a clinical neuropsychologist and authority on concussions. She is a specialist in neurogenic speech and language disorders and head injury diagnosis and treatment. As a passionate advocate for concussions prevention, she has served as a consultant at the college & professional sports level and has implemented a State of New Jersey funded grant for research relating to concussions in high schools.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Defense Wins Baseball Games: Creighton U. Leads the Pack

billschiffler — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:46:14 +0000

Guest Ed Servais, 28 year college coach including 7 year as Creighton U., is a master at defense. The Bluejay team records are proof. In Ed’s 7 years as head coach Creighton accumulative record for scoring defense fewest errors (370) with a .976 field %-both DI #1 statistics. Through stories and examples coach Servais will share how he teaches and reinforces defense thinking and play in practices and game situations. Note: For me personally, going back as far as my HS playing days, I learned the critical role defense plays in winning games and emphasized that in my sports psychology work and coaching.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Vision Takes Root for Kids: The Story of Signature Park

billschiffler — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 05:01:22 +0000

Kids, parents, coaches and communities are hungry for youth ball fields that carry forth the pureness of sandlot ball with modern teaching concepts and technology. This show addresses these four core question: How do you 1) realistically stretch the envelop to combine the best of the old & new at a single facility for youth, their parents and coaches, 2) develop and integrate physical, athletic, mental & spiritual skills, 3) teach all ages to become good stewards of the environment, and, 4) make it enjoyable and fun for all? Through stories, examples and clear concepts, guest Chris Palomba* head of Signature Park’s Board of Directors, tells us what they are doing in Atlanta, GA to make this happen. *Chris is a successful business entrepreneur, former baseball player and father of four. His courage, sense of purpose, foresight, vision and ability to lead others has put Signature Park on the map. He is a great voice in action. See the Week 1101 show-Let Great Voices Speak!

Championship Thinking in Sports – Great Voices in History Inspire Excellence in Sports

billschiffler — Mon, 27 Dec 2010 22:10:24 +0000

Can luminaries of history inspire and teach coaches and players how to be more resilient, believe in self, gain courage, create self-vision, deal with harsh realities and learn to do the right thing? You be the judge. This show brings you messages from these great voices: Robert Kennedy, Helen Keller, Winston Churchill, Nelson Mandella, Margaret Mead, Thomas Edison, Norman Cousins, Mahatma Gandhi. Also, several sports icons will be “joining” us. Guest, Tom Gray, outstanding collegiate basketball player, corporate leader and 23 year college professor, shares his thoughts on these great voices based on his participation in my presentation titled, “Let Great Voices Speak!”

Championship Thinking in Sports – Athletic Leadership: How to Become a Student Leader

billschiffler — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 05:01:58 +0000

Guest John Pinkman* and your host, Jim Meier, teams up on the timely, critical topic of how a student athlete can and must take control of their own life in the context of the school where he or she plays and which sport(s). Both John and Jim have written a book and articles on this topic as well as numerous articles. Core topics covered include: Today’s athletic leadership problem/challenge, moving from industrial age leader to knowledge age leader, leadership building blocks and values. Stories and examples will be given. John is an author, adviser to athletic programs nationally & owner of Pinkman Baseball Academy.

Championship Thinking in Sports – The Big Five Genetic Traits That Influence Coach and Player Behavior

billschiffler — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 05:01:11 +0000

Psychologists generally agree on five genetic traits that clearly influence human behavior. These behaviors, referred to as the Big Five, are Openness, Agreeableness, Emotional stability, Conscientiousness & Extraversion. In sports, these big five play out daily among and between coaches and players. Using his four A model for improvement: Awareness, Analysis, Action & Achievement, show host, Jim Meier, talks you through all five of these traits & how to successfully work with them. Drawing from his expertise in sports psychology, leadership & team building, Jim gives examples of coaching, clinics and hands-on workshops he has done with college and HS teams across the country.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Crib Notes from an All-American and NFL Receiver

billschiffler — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 05:01:57 +0000

Guest Tinker Owens earned HS All-State honors, Sugar Bowl MVP as a freshman in ’72 and All-American honors in ’74-’75 as an Oklahoma Sooner wide receiver (’72-’75). He also played on two national championship teams and in the NFL from ’76-’81 for the New Orleans Saints. I asked Tinker to open up his “play book” of learning from those years. Topics from his ‘crib notes’ include: a) Comparing formations, the audible and role of the receiver…then and now, b) The peril in underestimating the small stature big spirit wide out c) ‘If only I could play college and pro football again’ d) Balancing brain and brawn on the gridiron e) What change I’d make to improve the game f) Defining football moments that opened my eyes g) Comparing the transition from HS to college and college to the pros.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Lessons in Softball Create Champions in Life

billschiffler — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 14:45:46 +0000

Life There is nothing ‘soft’ about good, solid, competitive softball. I know this truth first hand. The 30+ years I’ve played fast & slow pitch helped lay the foundation for better dealing with what at times is life’s harsh reality. With over 40 years of professional experience*, show guest, Ron Radigonda, Executive Director, Amateur Softball Association (ASA) since 1998, also knows the deep value softball brings to human growth and development. In this show Ron discusses these core aspects of softball, a) his leadership philosophy for advancing ASA as the national governing board of the sport, b) how societal changes are impacting softball, c) the ways softball develops mental smarts and mental toughness, d) why every person in a leadership role needs to be very good at partnering. *includes Executive Director, Sacramento Sports Commission & several key sports administration positions with the City of San Francisco.

Championship Thinking in Sports – Survey of Olympians Gives Top 10 Success factors and Obstacles

billschiffler — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:25:03 +0000

As a coach, athlete, parent and trainer would you like to know what actual Olympians did to reach that level of excellence? You will with this show. In 2000, to learn about the progression of young athletes to Olympians the U.S. Olympic Committee (USOC) conducted “The Olympian Survey,” in which 800+ Olympians responded. The survey produced two reports: Reflections on Success & The Pathway to Excellence. From start to finish, guest, Alicia McConnell, USOC Director of Athletes Services and Programs had a lead role with this extensive & highly informative survey. Alicia has extensive background as an elite athlete, coach and national USOC program development and management.