The Bet On Me Podcast: Recent Episodes

Krista Stoker

Get ready to dive into all things softball player development with the Bet on Me Podcast! Hosted by Krista Stoker, the Co-Founder of S2 Breakthrough, this show is the ultimate resource for players looking to elevate their training and reach their full potential. With a focus on individualized assessments and data-driven training programs, S2 Breakthrough provides a holistic and collaborative approach to player development. Our mission is to empower girls and women in the sport by giving them the knowledge and confidence to become their own best coach and embrace a “Bet on Me” mindset. Join Krista as she explores the world of softball player development and helps you take control of your training journey!

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In this episode, Krista Stoker, Ashley Sunshine, and Laura McDonald tackle a question from Liz Jagielski, Head Coach of DePaul Softball: "How much and how often should college pitchers throw live?" The team explores the balance between live pitching and training, sharing strategies to maximize performance while minimizing injury risk. They dive into pitch assessments, the role of intent, and how data integrity can influence training decisions. This conversation offers valuable insights for both coaches and pitchers as they navigate game readiness and athlete development.

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In this episode, Krista, Ashley, and Laura are back to break down the challenges freshmen athletes—especially pitchers—face as they transition to college sports. They dive into the impact of youth coaching, movement quality issues, and the common fatigue seen in incoming players. The team discusses how college coaches can better understand the unique backgrounds of their recruits, adjust their coaching styles, and set realistic expectations for player development. Learn why live pitching practices should be balanced with skill-focused training and how to support freshmen athletes as they navigate this critical stage in their careers.

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In this episode, Ashley and Jamnes take a deep dive into the relationship between velocity, power, and movement quality in pitching. They break down common misconceptions about speed and agility training and highlight why a more comprehensive approach is necessary to increase pitching velocity. From strength and stability to rest and recovery, they outline the key factors every athlete should consider. Coaches, athletes, and families will learn how proper workload management, nutrition, and body weight impact force production and velocity. Tune in to understand why velocity matters and how to effectively train for it in softball.

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Join Krista, Ashley, and Laura as they dive into the evolution of college assessments in this episode of the OGX Podcast. The team explores the shift from simply collecting data to applying it effectively within coaching systems. They discuss how coaches have become more receptive to new information and the growing impact of expanded staff sizes. The conversation also highlights the challenges of implementing reliable and user-friendly technology in softball player development. The hosts emphasize the need for better investment in current tech, improved customer service, and independent testing, calling for accountability and continuous improvement in the industry.

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In this episode of the OGX Podcast, Krista Stoker and Kealia Wysocki dive deep into the art of hitting in softball. They discuss the transition from player to coach, emphasizing the importance of slowing down to let athletes lead and fostering adaptability in hitters. Learn why adjustability is crucial in responding to different pitch shapes and spin profiles, and how using weighted bats can enhance training. Krista and Kealia also explore the complex concept of timing and how to teach it effectively. This conversation is all about understanding and nurturing individuality in athletes, helping them harness their unique strengths at the plate.

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In this special episode, Krista Stoker, Ashley Sunshine, and Laura McDonald sit down to reflect on the incredible experiences and takeaways from Pitchstock 2024. They discuss the sense of community and connection that Pitchstock fosters, emphasizing the importance of creating a comfortable and authentic environment for open and vulnerable discussions.

The trio highlights the impactful presentations by Laura and Jordan, who successfully communicated complex topics and inspired attendees. They also delve into the bravery and vulnerability displayed by all presenters and the continued growth and evolution of Pitch-a-Palooza. The conversation touches on the significance of sharing systems and knowledge, the need to include more stakeholders like strength coaches and athletic trainers in future events, and the exciting plans for the future of Pitchstock.

Tune in to hear their thoughts on the energy and impact of Pitchstock 2024 and what lies ahead for this growing community.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:30 Preparing for the College Assessment World Tour
01:28 Reflecting on Pitchstock and its Impact
03:11 The Sense of Community and Connection at Pitchstock
06:54 Pitchstock as a Movement
12:40 The Value of Diversity in the Pitching Community
15:08 The Impactful Presentations of Laura and Jordan
21:43 The Evolution and Growth of the Pitching Community
22:56 Bravery and Vulnerability
24:04 Continuing the Growth
25:29 Sharing Systems and Knowledge
30:41 Including All Stakeholders
31:37 The Impact and Energy of Pitch-a-Palooza
32:19 Looking Ahead: Future Plans for Pitch-a-Palooza

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Join Krista Stoker and the OGX directors in this live-recorded episode from day one of Pitchstock 2024 as they answer your burning questions on softball player development. From tracking data and improving core stability to analyzing pitching with high-speed video, this Q&A session dives deep into the essentials of player growth. Learn about the importance of in-game data, the role of plyometrics, and the differentiation between bullet spin and six to twelve spin. Whether you're a coach, player, or enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your understanding of the game.

00:00 Introduction and Q&A Format

00:30 Tracking Data Resources and Options

06:42 Improving Trunk and Core Stability in Pitchers

10:00 Tracking and Training for Young Pitchers

13:01 Managing Fatigue and Recovery in Pitchers

21:12 Understanding Bullet Spin in Pitching

23:55 The Future of Softball and the Importance of In-Game Data

28:02 The Value of Video Analysis and Frame Rates

30:21 Differentiating Between Full Effort and Moderate Throwing

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Laura McDonald and Ashley Sunshine dive into all things Pitchstock! Pitchstock is an annual conference that focuses on player development and the advancement of softball pitching. The conference started in 2019 and has evolved over the years, attracting a diverse community of coaches, players, and parents. The event provides a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and challenging traditional coaching methods. The culture of Pitchstock is characterized by openness, vulnerability, and a strong sense of community.

The conference offers both in-person and virtual experiences, allowing participants to engage in organic conversations and networking opportunities. The goal is to inspire and empower individuals to demand more for pitching and player development.

To get tickets, visit: https://go.ogxsoftball.com/pitchstock

00:00 The Evolution of Pitchstock
02:41 Demanding More and Pushing for Change
07:49 The Share Culture and Community Element
11:45 Pitchstock: For Everyone in the Movement
18:38 The Underground: Sharing Interesting Pieces
25:27 Bringing Everyone Along: Not an Elitist Conference
30:33 Organic Conversations and Open Dialogue

ogxpodcast #pitchstock #conference

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In this episode, Laura McDonald and James Cameron dive into the intricacies of strength and conditioning for softball athletes. James shares his extensive background and insights on training female athletes, particularly focusing on rotational power and movement quality. They debunk common misconceptions about the "grind" mentality, emphasizing the importance of efficient in-season workouts and structured training. The discussion also covers the significance of rest and recovery, the role of strength and conditioning in preventing injuries, and what to look for in a personal trainer. Tune in for a well-rounded conversation that highlights the essential elements of athletic training.

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In this episode of the OGX Podcast, Krista Stoker and the team sit down with Alyssa Denham, Pro Softball Pitcher with Athletes Unlimited, to discuss the nuances of lengthening the arm in the pitching motion. Dive deep into player development in college athletics, the evolution of coaching perspectives, and the impact of the transfer portal. Explore how data analytics shape player development and learn strategies for managing and protecting athletes' skills. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or a seasoned coach, this episode is packed with insights to help you understand and enhance player development at every level.

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Krista, Ashley and Laura discuss the challenges and exhaustion faced by athletes and their families during the travel ball season. This episode highlights the need for better management, mental and physical health, and a shift in expectations to create a healthier environment for softball players. Special guest Kris Ganeff, Head Coach of Notre Dame Softball, asks a critical question: What is the difference between hard and challenging in youth sports? Don’t miss this insightful conversation on the future of youth softball.

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In Episode 013 of the OGX Podcast, Krista Stoker and Ashley Sunshine dive into the complexities of the transfer portal and NIL on athlete development. Join us as we discuss the significance of athletes making decisions based on their values and the role of parents in this process. Special guest Trisha Ford of Texas A&M asks about the size of the softball and pitching distance in youth softball, highlighting the need for thoughtful development guidelines. Listen in as we examine how these factors affect overhand throwing mechanics and the overall love for the game.

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In this solo episode of the OGX Podcast, host Krista Stoker dives deep into the world of competitive youth sports, focusing on travel baseball and softball. Krista discusses the pressures parents feel to push their kids into competitive sports at a young age, even when the kids may not be ready. She highlights the lack of opportunities for unstructured play, leading to a heavy reliance on structured and competitive environments. Valuing free play and imagination is crucial for developing creativity and a feel for the game in young athletes. Krista also explores the pressures and fears kids face when playing in front of crowds and the impact of intense parental involvement. This episode calls for a reevaluation of the youth sports system to prioritize the well-being and autonomy of young athletes. Tune in to hear valuable insights and reflections on how we can better support our young athletes!

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Join us for Episode 11 of The OGX Podcast, hosted by Krista Stoker, Ashley Sunshine, and Laura McDonald. In this episode, we dive into the dynamic intersection of coaching and technology in sports performance. Our hosts discuss the importance of understanding pitch shapes and how hitters can adjust their approaches based on different pitchers. Special guest Kirsten Verdun poses a critical question about the transition from low-intensity to full-effort training, which our hosts answer while emphasizing the role of strength and conditioning in developing power and movement quality. This episode highlights the need for actionable data, context, and collaboration between coaches to optimize athlete performance. Tune in for an engaging discussion that blends data-driven insights with practical coaching strategies!

Key Topics:

  • The role of technology and data in sports performance
  • Actionable application and interpretation of data
  • Challenges in navigating technology use in coaching
  • Importance of player health and performance monitoring
  • Understanding pitch shapes and adjusting hitter approaches
  • Transitioning pitchers from low-intensity to high-effort training
  • Collaborative approaches between pitching and strength coaches

Timestamps:
00:51 - Introduction and Setting
01:49 - The Power of Actionable Application of Technology and Data
06:51 - Challenges Faced by Coaches in Navigating Technology
10:09 - The Significance of Player Health and Performance Monitoring
42:38 - Transitioning Pitchers
49:18 - Collaboration between Coaches
54:18 - Individualized Approaches
55:14 - Strength and Conditioning
55:56 - Environmental Design and Training

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In this exciting episode of the OGX Podcast, host Krista Stoker, along with Ashley Sunshine and Laura McDonald, dive into the recent WCWS and its standout moments. They kick off the conversation by examining the phenomenal performances of the pitchers and the strategic use of pitching staff, highlighting the switch to relying on the number one pitcher and the remarkable defensive plays in the outfield.The discussion moves into the realm of data analysis, emphasizing the necessity of accurate and contextual information to truly understand the nuances of the game. The hosts explore the critical role of spin rates and break profiles, and even entertain the idea of commentating on games themselves, incorporating their data-driven insights.

Emotions run high as Krista, Ashley, and Laura share their intense reactions to high-stakes games and the challenges of reporting without bias. They touch on the vital importance of pitcher management, considering the effects of chronic fatigue on performance and health.

The episode takes an exciting turn with the announcement of a traditional model for Athletes Unlimited's next season, sparking a discussion on the potential for a more stable and successful professional softball league. The hosts express their enthusiasm for the rise of support systems and player development within the league.

As they dive deeper into coaching and recruiting, the hosts emphasize understanding a pitcher's patterns, ball flight, strength and conditioning background, and health history. They discuss the need for a diverse pitching staff to challenge hitters and the importance of efficiency in a pitcher's success, advocating for a reevaluation of traditional labels and expectations.

Join us for a captivating episode filled with expert analysis, emotional reflections, and forward-looking insights into the future of professional softball. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, this episode offers valuable perspectives and a passionate look at the game we all love.

Listen now and be part of the conversation!

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In this episode of The OGX Podcast, we explore the multifaceted world of baseball and softball through a captivating conversation that covers:

  • The thrilling experience of attending the World Series and navigating the challenges of weather delays.
  • The intense excitement and stress of Super Regionals, with a focus on how pitching performance can make or break a team.
  • The emotional journey of teams and players, emphasizing the resilience and determination needed to succeed.
  • The critical importance of player development at the youth level, and the challenges that come with introducing kids to competitive pitching.
  • The necessity of understanding natural movement patterns in young athletes and preserving their individuality while addressing performance and pain.
  • The caution needed when making changes based solely on visual assessments, and the importance of movement quality and adaptability.

Join us as we share personal stories and expert insights, providing a comprehensive look at the emotional and competitive aspects of high-level baseball and softball. Whether you're a coach, player, or enthusiast, this episode is packed with valuable information and takeaways.

Tune in now to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in player development and the critical elements that contribute to success in sports.

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In Episode 8 of The OGX Podcast, hosts Krista, Laura, and Ashley delve into a variety of engaging topics, including the impact of cicadas, the excitement of postseason softball, and the use of data in player development.

The trio highlights the critical role of understanding and contextualizing data, particularly in recruiting and evaluating athletes. They underscore the significance of underdog stories and the profound influence athletes can have on a program, regardless of the level at which they compete. Krista, Laura, and Ashley express their hope for more athletes to cherish the opportunity to build something remarkable at mid-major programs.

The conversation also addresses the challenges and responsibilities associated with utilizing data in player development and recruiting. The hosts explore the importance of owning and comprehending one's own data, the benefits of data aggregation for knowledge and improvement, and the distinction between being good and being great in various life aspects.

Special guest Natalie Wideman joins the discussion, asking an insightful question about the journey from being good to achieving greatness. Krista and the team emphasize the necessity for athletes to take ownership of their data and use it to advocate for themselves, while also considering the ethical implications of making data public.

Additionally, Krista, Laura, and Ashley touch on the significance of self-awareness, authenticity, and facing the truth to achieve greatness. They conclude the episode by discussing the importance of caring for one's body and mind, setting boundaries, and seeking help when needed.

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In this episode, hosts Krista, Laura, and Ashley dive into the complex world of college softball rankings and regional seeding. They discuss the perplexing discrepancies between visible rankings and regional host allocations, expressing the shared frustration of fans and teams when expectations don't align with outcomes. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparent and consistent criteria to ensure fairness and clarity in the ranking process. Additionally, the hosts explore how effective workload management can significantly impact player performance and mitigate issues like pain and velocity regression.

Transitioning to the high school to travel ball season, the discussion provides insights on how athletes can utilize this period to recalibrate and enhance their baseline performance. The episode also delves into the psychological aspect of youth sports, focusing on the importance of teaching athletes to navigate failure. Chris Malveaux shares his perspective on fostering resilience and the crucial role of parents and coaches in shaping young athletes' responses to setbacks. The hosts advocate for a balanced, long-term developmental approach that prioritizes the well-being of athletes over immediate performance pressures.

Takeaways:

  • The inconsistency between visible rankings and regional allotments in college softball can be confusing and frustrating for fans and teams.
  • Clear and transparent criteria for rankings and seeding would help alleviate confusion and ensure fairness.
  • Workload management is crucial for maintaining player performance and preventing regression.
  • Pain and velocity regression require different approaches, with pain necessitating rest and recovery, and velocity regression often requiring low to moderate intensity training.
  • Understanding and addressing early signs of regression can help athletes prevent further decline and make necessary adjustments.
  • The transition period between high school and travel ball seasons is an opportunity for athletes to restore their baseline performance through targeted training and workload management.
  • The youth sports environment still struggles with teaching athletes how to handle failure effectively.
  • The lesson-driven model of instruction often perpetuates the fear of failure and the need for immediate success.
  • Parents and coaches play a crucial role in shaping athletes' perspectives on failure and fostering resilience.
  • Educating athletes about the long-term journey and the importance of building resilience to failure is essential.
  • Balancing performance goals with the athletes' well-being and long-term development is key.

Tune in for an engaging and insightful discussion that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the complexities in youth sports and the critical elements that contribute to athletes' success and well-being.

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In this episode of the OGX Podcast, Krista Stoker and Laura McDonald dive into the world of athlete empowerment through the lenses of data and storytelling. From the challenges faced by female athletes in transition to the importance of finding identity beyond the game, Krista and Laura share insights, personal experiences, and advice for both athletes and coaches. Tune in for a deep dive into holistic development, redefining success, and the invaluable support needed along the journey.

Special shoutout to Amanda Hazer for her impactful work in athlete transition support.

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In this episode of The OGX Podcast, hosts Krista Stoker, Laura McDonald and Ashley Sunshine discuss the business case for softball and why tech companies, among others, are missing the mark in going all in for softball.

They also discuss Michigan’s current success in the Big 10, their commitment to continual improvement and the tradition and respect of where they came from and the name across their chest.Finally, they respond a question from Natalie Ruechel, the pitching coach at Appalachian State on what the next big thing is pitching in terms of technology, data, etc.

Tune in to Episode 5 of The OGX Podcast!

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In this episode of The OGX Podcast, hosts Krista Stoker, Laura McDonald and Ashley Sunshine discuss the importance of maximizing your summer as a collegiate athlete, whether for performance games or recovering from an injury.

They also discuss the use of data and visualizations with hitting training, including some of the limitations current technology has on appropriately capturing constraint-led training.

Finally, they respond a question from Megan Bartlett, the head coach of ASU, on the truisms for success in the game of softball throughout each level of the game.Tune in to Episode 4 of The OGX Podcast!

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In this episode of The OGX Podcast, hosts Laura McDonald and Ashley Sunshine discuss Iowa State's recent series win over Oklahoma State, highlighting Lauren Schurman's pivotal role, her recruiting journey to Iowa State, and the importance of growing AND knowing your tools as a pitcher.

In a timely discussion, Ashley and Laura then shift to address the specific challenges of managing athletes in-season with a focus on maintaining performance amidst the stresses of frequent competitions and the intensity of the high school and summer seasons.

This episode concludes with a question from guest Jen Brundage, Assistant Coach at the University of Michigan, about movement quality and strength trends in young athletes. Ashley and Laura share their thoughts, both for pitchers and hitters, about the physical impact the game has on developing athletes and what they see in OGX's assessment data.
Tune in to Episode 3 of The OGX Podcast for your ultimate softball breakdown!

theogxpodcast #softball #strength #movement #trends

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In this episode of The OGX Podcast, hosts Ashley Sunshine, Krista Stoker, and Laura McDonald dive deep into the week of softball, starting with a discussion of Texas’s recent series victory over Oklahoma. The trio breaks down the exceptional performance of Texas pitchers, celebrating their execution and discussing the broader implications for the sport’s competitive landscape. The conversation also discusses Katie Stewart’s standout performance in the series.

Switching gears, the episode also introduces a hot topic in softball— the new rule allowing teams to review plays for leaving the bag early. Ashley, Krista, and Laura share their thoughts on how this change is impacting the game, debating its potential benefits and pitfalls.

To wrap up, special guest Kris Herman, the Head Coach of Williams College’s softball team, joins the podcast. Coach Herman poses a critical question about how Division III coaches and players can best prepare for the spring season given the limited time they can spend together. The hosts engage in a thoughtful discussion on strategies for maximizing team potential with constrained resources.

Tune in to Episode 2 of The OGX Podcast for your ultimate softball breakdown!

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Welcome to this week's episode of the OGX Podcast! We're shaking things up with a rebrand, now giving Krista, Ashley, and Laura the space to delve into all things softball. In this episode, we focus on pitching, discussing Lexi Kilfoyl's standout performance against Texas with her two shutouts. Join us as we analyze Duke's ascent to the number two spot and explore the factors contributing to their success over the years. Plus, we dive into the intriguing intersection of competitive spirit and data, sparked by Danielle Lawrie's recent Twitter post. And don't miss our conversation with Trisha Ford from Texas A&M, where we tackle the important topic of pitch counts at the youth level. It's a lively discussion filled with insights and engaging banter.

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Get ready for an exciting episode of The Bet On Me Podcast! In episode 23, we've scored a winning conversation with three extraordinary Olympians. Join us as we dive into the significance of the game of softball making its return to the Olympics in 2028.

In this must-listen episode, we chat with these incredible athletes about their remarkable journeys, from their early days in their national programs to representing their countries on the world stage. Discover what the Olympics truly mean to them and how their experiences have shaped their perspectives on the game.

We also explore what the inclusion of our sport in the Olympics means for the future. The impact of the Olympics on the growth and development of national programs worldwide is a topic that couldn't be more timely, and we break down what it means for the game of softball.

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In this episode of the Bet On Me Podcast, Krista and Coach Chastain explore the journey to UNC Charlotte, tracing the program's growth since 2019 and the pivotal role of departmental support in their softball success story.

Discover the insider's perspective on the unique culture Coach Chastain has crafted within the team—an environment where athletes thrive as their authentic selves. From pitcher assessments to the vibrant team dynamics, this episode is a treasure trove of insights into the strategies that have propelled UNC Charlotte Softball into the spotlight.

Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how Coach Chastain puts people first, creating a safe haven for athletes to excel. Learn about the essential resources dedicated to softball and their transformative impact on the team's culture.

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In this captivating episode of the Bet On Me Podcast, Krista dives deep into Ryker's incredible softball journey, from his early days as a player to his impactful role as a coach in the SEC, and now as the Director of Pitching Growth at OGX.

Ryker's story is a testament to the power of dedication, hard work, and the unwavering belief in the potential of the game. Don't miss this exciting episode as we uncover the secrets behind Ryker Chason's success and his vision for the future of softball!

Subscribe to the Bet On Me Podcast for more incredible stories of individuals who dared to dream big and bet on themselves.

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In this episode on the Bet On Me Podcast, Amanda Hazer and Krista explore why approaching the human element of athletes is important, including helping with identity work and preparing the athletes for the eventual transition out of sport.

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Join us for an inspiring episode of The Bet On Me Podcast as Krista Stoker engages in a captivating conversation with Suzy Willemssen, the leader behind the Virginia Glory. In this enlightening exchange, Suzy shares her invaluable insights, leaving us all feeling recharged and motivated.

In the aftermath of a thrilling summer spent coaching 18U travel ball, Krista and Suzy delve into the profound experiences they encountered with their respective teams. Together, they explore the prevalent themes that emerged and the impactful strides they took towards athlete development. Beyond the physical aspects, they navigate the essential domains of mental and emotional growth, highlighting the pivotal role coaches play in preparing young athletes not just for their sporting careers, but for life itself.

Prepare to be inspired as Krista and Suzy uncover the depths of their coaching journeys and reveal the keys to unlocking the potential within the next generation of athletes. Don't miss this remarkable conversation; hit play and immerse yourself in their wisdom today!

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In this episode of the "Bet On Me" podcast, host Krista Stoker sits down with Trisha Ford, head coach of Texas A&M Softball, to dive into the intricacies of building a comprehensive player development system at the collegiate level. As one of the leading minds in the sport, Coach Ford shares her insights and expertise on various aspects of pitcher development, taking us through the journey from understanding how the body moves to utilizing ball flight data.

Join Krista and Coach Ford as they explore the importance of pitching matchups and the art of knowing when to throw which athlete, while also fostering an environment that allows athletes to practice and excel in their specific roles. They delve into the significance of using assessments to lay out the foundation of a pitcher's skillset and discuss the specific aspects that coaches tackle to optimize performance.

Moreover, Coach Ford reveals the valuable role of in-game data for pitcher feedback, emphasizing how this real-time information enables coaches and pitchers to make adjustments on the fly. Discover the power of incorporating workload management into pitcher plans, as Coach Ford shares her strategies for balancing training intensity and ensuring the long-term success and well-being of her athletes.

Whether you're an aspiring softball pitcher, a passionate coach, or simply interested in the inner workings of elite player development, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to gain exclusive insights and practical knowledge from Coach Trisha Ford's vast experience and expertise, as she guides us through the fascinating world of developing exceptional softball pitchers.

betonme #podcast #playerdevelopment #ncaa #softball

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In this episode of the Bet On Me Podcast, host Krista Stoker sits down with Chelsea Martin, a former Louisville softball athlete turned physical therapist, Ph.D. student, and pitching consultant. Join them as they delve into the intricacies of athlete health and wellness, shining a spotlight on common injuries presented at Chelsea's PT clinic and exploring the essential concepts of workload and the significance of involving all parties in athlete wellness.

Chelsea's expertise as a physical therapist and pitching consultant provides a unique perspective on nurturing the overall well-being of athletes. Throughout the conversation, she shares invaluable insights and practical advice for optimizing performance while prioritizing health. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of holistic athlete care, including strategies for injury prevention, effective rehabilitation techniques, and the role of mental and emotional well-being in athletic success.

Tune in to this enlightening episode to discover how Chelsea's experiences as both an athlete and a healthcare professional have shaped her approach to athlete wellness. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a coach, or an aspiring athlete, this conversation will equip you with the knowledge and tools to unlock your full potential while safeguarding your long-term health.

athletewellness #injuryrehab #workloadmanagement #holisticcare #peakperformance #physicaltherapy #sportsconsultant #mindbodyconnection #sportsscience #betonmepodcast

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Welcome to another episode of the Bet On Me podcast! In this episode, host Krista Stoker sits down with Eric Cressey, co-founder of Cressey Sports Performance, a renowned strength and conditioning facility known for its work with baseball players and athletes of all kinds.

During their conversation, Krista and Eric explore the journey that led him to recognize the importance of movement and integration in baseball pitchers. From his experiences as the director of player health and performance for the Yankees to coaching his daughter's 8U softball team, Eric shares valuable lessons and insights that athletes of all levels can benefit from.

They delve into the topic of training approaches, discussing the differences between professional athletes and the importance of age-appropriate training. Discover how volume, both in strength and conditioning exercises and skill work, plays a crucial role in achieving optimal performance.

Get ready to learn a ton as Krista and Eric dive deep into these topics. You'll gain valuable knowledge and practical tips that can elevate your training game. This episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired and motivated to take your performance to new heights. Trust us, you won't want to miss it!

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Jami Lobpries, the CEO of Alliance Fastpitch, explains the background of the player advisory committee. This group was put together to give the players a voice in Alliance decisions. Jami and Krista talk about the first meeting of the group and some of the hopes for the group going forward.

betonme #podcast #alliancefastpitch

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Krista, Ashley, Laura and Karli talk about summer training for college athletes and why athletes should go beyond the thinking that it should be spent either taking time off or playing games. The conversation centers on how college athletes can use the summer as a time to take their game to the next level, whether that’s getting out of an injury cycle or adding another weapon to their arsenal. The summer is a great time for college athletes to bet on themselves.

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Laura and Krista talk through some of the challenges they have seen in access to quality and representative technology in softball. Laura talks through the differences she felt in coming from the academic space to the private sector, as well as some hopes we have for how the space can be better represented in the future.

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Krista and Ashley talk through some of the challenges athletes face during the high school season, especially when it comes to workload. They discuss how all of the players in the discussion factor in, including coaches, parents, administration and the athletes and how we can all start a discussion that is athlete-centered.

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Join host Krista and University of Tennessee Assistant Softball Coach Chris Malveaux in this episode of the Bet on Me podcast, as they dive into the world of hitting in softball. Chris shares his expertise on how players can rebound from inevitable failures and setbacks at the plate. You'll discover practical tips and actionable advice on how to cultivate a winning mindset, overcome hitting slumps, and thrive in the high-pressure world of softball. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan of the game, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you bet on yourself and succeed. Tune in now and get ready to bet on yourself! 

betonme #podcast

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Krista and Ryker Chason, pitching coach at Ole Miss, talk through his approach to building a pitching staff through both bringing on different spin profiles and expanding on pitcher repertoire during their collegiate years. Ryker also touches on the balance between physical make-up and mental approach, including a willingness to grow and fail, that is required to be a successful pitcher on the biggest collegiate stage.

betonme #balance #skill #mindset

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Join Krista as she talked to Suzy Willemssen, current head of the VA Glory travel program as well as Head Coach of Bishop O’Connell High School. Suzy talks through creating buy-in to a culture of growth and standards of excellence by developing deep relationships of trust through consistency in our every day actions!

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Ashley and Krista talk through the idea we have built in our game that athletes have ceilings, including their belief that our youth system and the lack of attention to appropriate development has created artificial ceilings on many young softball athletes.  The true reason for the creation of the “Bet on Me” mindset!

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Join as South Carolina Assistant Coach, Josh Bloomer, talks through what it takes for hitters to have success in softball at the next level, including their ability to recover from failure.  Coach Bloomer also gives advice on what recruits should look for when they are picking the program they will attend.

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In this episode, Laura and Krista dive into the use of data in softball player development training, including common pitfalls coaches run into and some actionable steps for coaches to take to get the most out of data.

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In this episode of the Bet on Me podcast, host Krista Stoker interviews the accomplished athlete and coach, Joey Lye. Joey shares her journey from being recruited to play softball, trying out and making the Canadian national team, and ultimately winning Canada’s first-ever medal in softball at the Tokyo Olympics. The conversation also dives into how Joey’s meeting with Krista and her team led to a life-changing decision for her career, as well as the challenges and opportunities she faced during the pandemic. With insights into the world of professional sports and navigating career transitions, this episode is sure to inspire and motivate listeners.

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Welcome to episode 4 of the Bet on Me podcast! In this episode, Krista and Karli take a deep dive into the importance of in-season strength and conditioning for softball athletes.

In this episode, they discuss why in-season strength and conditioning is crucial for maintaining performance and reducing the risk of injury. They also address common pitfalls athletes face when implementing in-season programs, such as overtraining or not allowing for proper recovery.Furthermore, Krista and Karli debunk common myths about in-season lifting, such as the idea that lifting heavy weights during the season will make athletes too sore or tired for competition. 

They provide insights into the importance of balancing lifting with sport-specific training and recovery, and share their own experiences with in-season strength and conditioning.

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In this episode of the podcast, Krista Stoker talks to Coach Clarisa Crowell from Penn State. Crowell has been coaching for over 20 years and has seen how player development has become increasingly important in the sport. They discuss Crowell’s background, from her start in Ohio to her current position at Penn State. The conversation focuses on player development and how it’s a crucial part of Penn State’s program. Crowell emphasizes the importance of tracking players’ progress in all areas and how her team has worked with S2 Breakthrough to improve their approach to player development. They also talk about the significance of having an integrated staff - including strength and conditioning coaches and athletic trainers working with the athletes and how data and objective measurements are transforming the way softball teams are coached.

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In this episode of the podcast, Krista and Ashley discuss the critical role that building an integrated staff played in their development as coaches, and ultimately in helping build what S2 Breakthrough has become today. The episode delves into the importance of motor learning, constraint-led training, and the brain-body communication in sports performance. Tune in to hear Ashley and Krista reflect on their journey and the massive impact that Laura and Karli had on helping build the current player development system.

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Join Krista and Ashley as they take us on a journey through the history of S2 Breakthrough. From the start, their goal was to empower women through softball by developing toughness and resilience. However, they soon realized that the traditional, disciplinarian approach they had learned was fear-driven. In this episode, they share their journey to a newfound understanding of coaching and how they began implementing research, data, and scientific methods into their training programs at S2. This is Chapter 1 of the story of S2 Breakthrough.

betonme #podcast #episode1

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