Expert: John Madden - 3/4/2010

Question
Hi John, I'm wondering if you could suggest some good summer programs for a 14YO who will be entering high school in the fall. He's done the ABC Camps in So Calif. and they were very good, but am just wondering if there are strong development programs out there for his age. I've just started researching on the net, but am reaching out to anyone who may have some better knowledge of the right program to look for. He's a middle infielder, RH pitcher, and can mostly use the work on pitching and hitting. Any suggestions woud be appreciated. Thanks!

Answer
Kelli,

Sorry it took me so long to reply.  I think you are on the right track.  The internet is a great place to learn more about the path your son should be taking.  Just be sure to decipher the real from the bs.

Individual instruction and camps are a great way not only for a young player to develope a strong foundation, but it is also a great way for exposure.  Don't get caught up too much on mechanics and let someone talk you into spending hundreds of dollars on a "proper" set of mechanics.  Instead seek advice from an experienced instructor who can tell you about every aspect of the game and not just mechanics.

With that being said.  After you develope a relationship with a good instructor you can check in with them now and again for advice and tune ups.  Maybe even before a season get a month or two in, but don't go year round with personal lessons.  Instead invest your money on personal training for athletes.  Not the big muscle guy at the gym.  You can search "speed training or agility training" in your local area to get an idea.  

As far as the camps go, I say if you have the money and your kid wants to do it, then go for it.  If not, and it is about getting the most bang for your buck I would say stick to show cases.  There is more exposure.  Plus your son will learn more from a personal instructor than he will from a camp (if you've got the right guy).

In So Cal there is a company called West Coast Scouting and I think they offer some personal instruction from some very qualified people.  They are also into the scouting so there is just more incentive for exposure there.

The best thing you could probably do is visit my website http://www.yougoprobaseball.com and get all the info you want on things like this.  Drop by and ask me a question or just leave a comment on some of my youtube videos!  I wish your son the best of luck and I hope to see you on the site!  Let me know how it works out.    ;)