pgf – Softball Nation

10 Things You DON’T say before the BIG TOURNAMENT

Maybe you don’t believe in a jinx, karma, hexes or other supernatural unexplained phenomenon that may guide the rules of the earth.

But here’s something we can all agree on. You don’t say “Gee, we haven’t had very many injuries this season,” Before a big tournament. Why? Maybe it was just coincidence that two players mysteriously get hurt after uttering such a statement… hypothetically.

So here are the Top Ten things Not to say before a National Championship

1. We haven’t had many injuries this season.

2. Our bats are hot.

3. We’ve never given up a no hitter.

4. Our pitchers hardly ever give up home runs.

5. My kid never gets sick / injured.

6. We’ll be fine with 11 players.

7. It’s Southern California. How hot can it be?

8. We’ve cut down the errors to a minimum.

9. My daughter has a 15 game hitting streak.

10. I’m so glad there’s no drama on this team!

Please feel free to add any other sentences that should not be stated before a big tournament.

Coach Sean Brashear is Thankful for Trips to Del Taco

In our second of three segments with Firecrackers Coach Sean Brashear, we talk about his best advice to parents about paving the path to success. He also talks about the fine line between pushing your kid and letting them push themselves.

Don’t Fear Failure. Embrace the Opportunity.

For many young softball players, we’re getting into the heart of the season. Recreational leagues will soon have their tournaments, travel teams will try to qualify for National Tournaments and the eyes of college coaches will be looking for the talent they need to fill their future roster.

Parents, coaches and teammates have high expectations and hopes of glory. All of this turns up the pressure on young ladies who aren’t even old enough to vote, or even drive.

In the first of our 3-part interview, Firecrackers Coach Sean Brashear talks with Softball Nation about how softball players can prepare for the pressure of playing on a bigger stage.