Good Vibrations – When the Team Connects

Julie Thompson – A Baseball Factory Parent’s Perspective

‘Team spirit’ is a phrase we hear a lot. The words connote profound concepts—the desire to be a part of something bigger than oneself; the joy of realizing goals together, that individually, cannot be attained. When connectedness happens, one plus one really can make three.

Like you, we’ve been on many kinds of teams. They all have had their ups and downs. Most have had plenty of politics. One thing has stood out, though—the teams whose players really connected as teammates tended to outperform expectations.

Coaches played a big part in creating the teams’ atmospheres. We only had one coach that emphasized ‘fun’ over fundamentals and discipline; and most of the players found that without sound fundamentals and discipline, there really wasn’t much ‘fun.’ There never was a question of ‘control’ or who was ‘in charge,’ but the manner in which the authority message was conveyed varied from coach to coach. Team spirit also varied, as did the season records.

As the players got older, creating a team connection extended from the coach to the captains. Captains walked a tightrope when players were blasted by the coach or felt distanced from others in the group. They enforced the coaches’ rules and beliefs, but also sought out the individual. Captains weren’t immune to the coach’s ire, and had to learn the ropes, themselves. They had survived the system and thrived. Captains checked on injured teammates and made sure they brought everyone together outside of practice. Campfires and team dinners were places for players to vent—appropriately—with respect for the team and each other. They also served to build relationships that ultimately strengthened the team. Captains represented everybody, and communicated with everybody. They explained the expectations to new guys, and demanded accountability when players blew off responsibilities. They even met with the coach when it became clear his style was draining team morale. Captains fostered trust and respect among teammates. They joked with them, and offered perspective. They strove to be fair. Above all, captains were leaders, instilling optimism, players’ belief in themselves, and the team’s sense of ‘oneness.’

An observer usually can sense the teams with strong spirit. Two of Kyle’s high school teams played in tournaments that eventually went to national championships. Both times, they were underdogs from the north, gearing up to play all the teams from the south and west. Much of our season had been snowed-or-rained out—our teams probably had played half the games of their warm climate counterparts. One team got slaughtered fairly early on, before making a comeback. The other had some games that weren’t pretty, but somehow they managed to keep inching toward play-offs. In moments we all will remember with awe, both teams won their respective tournaments.

The notable qualities about both teams were their attitude and work ethic. They also had strong skills, but so did the other teams that made the tournaments. Our boys had fun, without losing sight of their goal. Instead of placing blame when errors happened, they moved on. They joked about eating the same breakfast, at the same restaurant, in the same seats, at the same time every day, once the winning began. Most of all, they trusted and supported each other on the field. Rivalries between individuals cooled as the teams progressed, showing that egos could retreat for the greater good. The groups’ connectedness was a force you could feel. The beauty of these wins was that everyone contributed—and knew he did—in some manner. Those moments were pure joy, and epitomized the essence of teamwork.

I often wonder if Kyle will experience that kind of connectedness in college. A friend of mine attributed the wonder of those championship weeks to the fact that the boys were still young. They’re older now, tougher and a little less trusting. The level of competition has risen and the stakes are high. Understandably, players closely guard personal vulnerabilities that can be revealed in the process of building trust and connection. I think there are a lot of factors in addition to that—the number of returning vs. new players, the team’s accomplishments, the way games are won and lost, and the players’ connection with the coach, to name a few. All I know is that for those two high school teams, connectedness was a powerful force, and it made winning that much sweeter for all of us.

Team spirit doesn’t have to blare. Oftentimes, it is subtle and strong. Players quietly give themselves up for the team by playing through injuries and making other personal sacrifices. They earn each other’s respect through hard work, and the recognition that each player is maximizing his effort on the field. Team spirit can grow with interaction and communication—and that simply takes time. As that happens, separate individuals bond into a solid group. And so, with another season upon us, strategies will be drawn up and fundamentals will be honed—but the teams that will outperform will likely include a strong sense of connectedness.


Julie Thompson is a parent of a former Baseball Factory Exclusive Program player. She has volunteered to share her opinions, observations and general thoughts regarding the college recruiting and player development process. She will share what worked and what didn’t for her son, in the hope that other parents and players may benefit from her experience.

Getting the Scoop

Julie Thompson – A Baseball Factory Parent’s Perspective

I’m not an advocate of believing everything you see or hear on the field. But sometimes the most important information you learn about a college baseball program doesn’t come from the literature or coaching staff – it comes from the other students and players, and the people close to them. Flyers, meetings with coaches, and admissions tours are great ways to get to know a college. There’s nothing like your son spending some time with the team, though, and everybody taking in a game or two.

Beautiful sunny days and baseball just go together. So do conversations, bleachers and concession stands. Sometimes general observations are all you need. Parents who have been involved with the team can lend some helpful insight regarding matters that don’t always come up in more formal meetings and interviews. Watching a game provides a perfect backdrop for honest and candid conversation. Try to pick your spots, though. Some people just want to watch the game and not be bothered with anything else – and of course, you want to be respectful of the atmosphere’s tone. If the game’s a nail-biter, pick another time for ball field chat! Go with your gut – after all your years on the field, you’ll know who to talk to, and when the time is best.

Most of the conversations I’ve had at the field have flowed easily. People can relate to the fact that you’re a potential newcomer, and are pleased to impart some stories and advice. A short time at a game can give you a pretty good idea of the overall tone of the crowd, as well as some specifics. I’ve met parents with whom I’ve later exchanged emails, and I’ve also sat with a few groups that made me want to join the other team! I’ve learned about the 30 minute bus ride (without traffic) a player takes from a local hotel because the dorms weren’t ready; or the way injuries get treated with a lack of urgency. Kyle spent some time checking out the speed the radar gun gauged from a pitcher, and factored some unimpressive speeds into the comments of the team’s very optimistic coach. The character of the players (as well as the characters among the players…), and the way they are treated by the coach, is more information best gleaned on site.

Here’s some information you might want to find out:

(1) What happens during injuries? Can the players be seen right on campus (is the infirmary open on week-ends and evenings?) or do they have to go to a local hospital? What quality of care have players received? Is there a sense of urgency in seeing a specialist or getting a test done (i.e. X-ray, MRI)? When a player is first injured, does anyone (coach, assistant coach, trainer, captain, teammate) follow-up to see how he is doing, or is he left on his own? How accessible are the athletic trainers, and what are their roles and backgrounds? How is someone treated by the coaching staff and other players, in general, if he is injured? Will he still feel he’s a part of the team?

(2) Are there any rules that seem unique (or quirky!) to that particular coach or league? What things should the players avoid doing because they drive the coach crazy?! How does the coach respond when players do those things? What’s his motivational style? A coach’s ‘being tough’ may be interpreted as ‘being berated’ by those on the receiving end of the comments. Does someone on the coaching staff communicate with players, or are players pretty much left guessing where they stand? Can players have facial hair? Tattoos? Wear sunglasses? No coach will please everybody, but consistent comments from players or parents should raise a red flag.

(3) How much camaraderie is there on the team? Do the players get together outside of baseball? What do they do? Or, do they tend to be independent or even protective of their own space? How long does it tend to take before ‘the new guys’ become fully accepted members of the team – does it ‘roll down’ on freshmen and transfers?

Baseball won’t be the only part of your son’s life at college – but it probably accounts for a large part of his identity and definitely, his time. The baseball experience – from the coaching staff to the players – can become an anchor for a sense of belonging. On the other hand, too many negative surprises can dampen the outlook of even the most enthusiastic player.

College baseball is your son’s journey – he is the one who is there and has more firsthand information than his at-home parents. Besides, as a maturing adult, he needs to learn to be his own advocate. Not to say we parents can’t support and guide (and yes, sometimes step in). In my experience, though, information from program veterans – taken with some perspective – can help put all concerned a little higher on the learning curve.



Julie Thompson is a parent of a former Baseball Factory Exclusive Program player. She has volunteered to share her opinions, observations and general thoughts regarding the college recruiting and player development process. She will share what worked and what didn’t for her son, in the hope that other parents and players may benefit from her experience.

What did Parents think of the Dodgertown Christmas Camp?

My nephew took part in the Dodgertown Christmas Camp last week and I felt I had to let you know how I feel about your program. This program is by far the most amazing program for young boys that I have ever seen. I am so impressed by what you all do, your values and your staff! All you see on the news are the dregs of teenage boys. No one ever shows programs such as yours. I love the fact that you stress three areas: the first-education; the second-education; the third-education. It is imperative, in my mind, that these young boys have a Plan B should their dreams of playing ball professionally not come to fruition. I was also impressed by the how the participants behaved, their 'clean cut' appearance and their sportsmanship and that you will not tolerate anything less. People rise to expectations so if you lower the bar, that's what you'll get.

My nephew enjoyed the camp despite the fact he was exhausted at the end of each day! Good job, coach! :o) He felt he'd received a lot good pointers to improve his game, i.e., things he could take back home with him so that he could improve his skills. He faced a level of pitching he hadn't seen before which, although at first he couldn't hit, by the last day he could get a hit. Good for his development and confidence.

Lastly, every one of the staff that I either had direct dealings with or observed were superb! They are obviously very dedicated and caring men. As the kids say, 'You done good!'

Sincerely,

Virginia M. Carson


(Thank you very much Mrs. Carson for your kind letter. We greatly appreciate your feedback)