by Stacey Atkinson
Archive for admin
Product Review- Kids Hydrospex Goggles
Category: Misc. |
Tags: Swim Goggles
Sports Tip Of The Week – Hit the Cut Off
This is one of my favorite scenes from League Of Their Own. Why is she getting yelled at? Because she forgot to hit the Cut Off Man/Woman! If you want your son or daughter to avoid this same scene then see below for a few cut off basics.
Once the ball is hit into the outfield the fielder will have different options depending who is on base, the number of outs, and how far the ball is hit. One of these options will be hitting the Cut Off Man which is typically the second baseman, shortstop, or pitcher. Most outfielders (especially kids) are unable to throw from the outfield all the way to home, therefore the Cut Off was created. Instead of throwing a long ball to home plate the outfielder will make a shorter throw to the second baseman (shortstop or pitcher) and that player will then throw it home.
Simple right? Hitting the cut off can actually be very tricky. First of all, both outfielder and second baseman (or shortstop) have to remember they are going to complete a cut off. If someone does not remember or communicate then you will have a scenario of the ball flying all over the place. The outfielder also has to let go of his/her ego and realize they cannot make it to home plate on their own. Many things can go wrong with the cut off scenario, so if you see the ball going every which way and people are yelling HIT THE CUT OFF, you can be assured that someone has missed the cutoff.
by Stacey Atkinson
Category: Misc. |
Tags: Cut off man
How To Get On The Jumbotron
The Jumbotron is fast becoming the most important side show at major sporting 
events around the world. Admit it, sometimes you find yourself watching the Jumbotron more then the game itself. If it is your dream (or your kids dream) to see yourself on a 33 feet tall by 110 feet wide display follow these five tips.
1. DANCE– Pumping your fists in the air, or doing a little side to side shuffle won’t cut it. You need to be out of your chair and in full dancing mode. The crazier, the better. Try the running man, or better yet the sprinkler, old time dance moves are also popular. Be careful not to spill your neighbors popcorn when attempting these moves.
2. SIGNS – Making a sign is very traditional but it still works. Get the card board out, think of a great saying, and put your sign up! The more funny the better, but remember, inappropriate comments will most likely not make it on the Jumbotron.
3. COSTUMES – Wearing a costume is a sure way to get maximum exposure on the Jumbotron. Dress up like a duck or a bear and you are golden! If a costume is a little too much for you than just wear a funny hat. I once saw a guy wear a Luigi hat to a game and he was on at least 15 times!
4. KISS – No, this is not the acronym for Keep It Simple Stupid, you are actually going to have to Kiss. The Kiss Cam is still popular at most sporting events so bring your partner and don’t be afraid of a little PDA (Public Display of Affection).
5. DON’T PAY ATTENTION – The Jumbotron wizards sometimes like to focus on the person or couple not paying attention and see how long it takes them to notice. This one is tricky because you will actually be paying attention but you will have to make it look like you are not. A few acting classes may be beneficial before you try this one out :).
Following one or more of these tips above will greatly increase your chances of getting on the Jumbrtron, and completely embarrassing your significant other or even better your kids :). So next time you attend a sporting event, dance it up, make a sign, wear a hat, and maybe watch a little bit of the actual game!
by Stacey Atkinson
Category: Life Lessons |
Tags: Jumbotron
Look People In The Eye
My high school coach was an interesting character. She was very intense and expected a 110% effort from us every time we were on the court. She enjoyed yelling, high heals, and definitely had a flare for the dramatics. One of the greatest lessons that she taught me was to look people in the eye. When she was speaking we always had to look her in the eye, or run. Since running to me is the equivalent of stepping on hot coals, I choose the first option. As a shy kid this was not something that I was entirely comfortable with. But as time went on I improved at this skill and found my confidence growing in other facets of life. Today it is one of the many non-verbals that I use in business meetings, trainings, speaking with superiors and also when speaking to my staff.
It may seem like a simple skill, but looking people in the eye is important for many reasons. When you engage someone you are telling them that you are interested, that they matter and that you actually care about what they are saying. Sideways glances, and looking down doesn’t cut it in the real world and you may be seen as a person that lacks confidence or simply doesn’t care. Non verbals can make or break you in the professional world so what better place to start learning these skills then on the playing field. Start working with your kids today on looking their Coaches in the eye and it will grow into a skill that they can utilize the rest of their lives.
For more on Non Verbal communication check out the book Body Talk.
John Wooden Quotes
A few weeks ago I posted an article regarding the Rutgers controversy with Coach Mike Rice. In the article I referred to Coach John Wooden (former UCLA coach) as an example of the type of coaching we should strive for. Here are some of my favorite quotes from the legend himself.
“Things turn out best for people who make the best of the way things turn out.”
“You can’t let praise or criticism get to you. It’s a weakness to get caught up in either one.”
“A Coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment.”
“If you’re not making mistakes, then you’re not doing anything. I’m positive that a doer makes mistakes.”
“Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.”
“Its the little details that are vital. Little things make big things happen.”
“Success is never final; failure is never fatal. It’s courage that count’s.”
Thank you Coach Wooden for teaching us these life lessons! If you want to learn more about Coach Wooden check out his book, “A Lifetime of Observations and Reflections On and Off the Court.”
by Stacey Atkinson