Jim Skelton

My role is to help players develop an understanding of the physical game vs the mental game. We will be focusing on the mental aspects of baseball as they relate to the individual. Some of the skills we will look at are breathing, mental imagery, self talk, routines, and goal setting(1). A player needs to have a mission, play the game one pitch at a time, focus on the process, develop their mental skills, and make commitment to learning(2). We will focus on developing self control, trust, and a pitch to pitch plan(3).  In a game based on failure, the key is to play the game one pitch at a time. Making a commitment to focus on the process rather than the outcome will be critical. While playing the game, the most important pitch is the pitch being thrown. Developing mental toughness is the goal. 

As quoted by Dr Ken Ravizza (World renowned Peak Performance coach, co-author w/Dr Tom Hanson; Heads Up Baseball(1,2,3), advisor, and friend), "Mental toughness in baseball is giving 100% of what you have to win the next pitch." Additionally, the athlete needs to “Learn to be comfortable being uncomfortable”, and "Failure is positive feedback".

Research shows that Mental Skills Helps to

+Condition the brain to discover and maximize your true potential.

+Develop ultimate balance between the mind and the body and between the body and the mind.

+Redirect the thoughts that lead to action towards tasks, dreams, and goals.

+Relax so that you can be more efficient and more proficient when it counts the most.

+Increase efficiency and confidence, which are fundamental to success.

+Take your life and game to the next level by altering information in the subconscious mind.

+Consistently enter a mind-flow state where the subconscious body takes over.

+Create proper muscle memory, instill new habits, develop a positive attitude, and alter behavior.