Theo Hassan on coaching today’s youth

Last week, I interviewed guest blogger, Theo Hassan, where we were able to learn a little about him. Theo also provided us with some insightful tips on pre- and post-game meals for baseball players.

I am back with Coach Theo for the next three weeks, this time, picking his brain about coaching players.

Here are some of the things he had to share:

What’s the toughest part of coaching today’s youth?

There are many obstacles a coach encounters while dealing with youth. It may be finding a way to connect with them, what to teach or how to keep parents involved.

The toughest challenge I’ve experienced is trying to get them to find their natural abilities before I can teach the sport. Most kids today are attached to their electronic devices and aren’t outside as much. This hinders the ability to discover their natural talent and the ability to move athletically.

What can coaches do better to help players reach their full potential?

Sometimes, we as coaches get caught on the drill and leave out the player. We should ask ourselves, “How can I make this drill fit this player? To help a player reach his full potential, we have to understand that all players aren’t the same athletically.

What are your top three pregame stretches?

There are many stretches athletes use in preparation for the game. After a 10-pole jog, I stretch my legs, my back, followed by my arms by using the color resistance bands.

To help keep your skills sharp, we have introduced a new type of Skill Build—our Virtual Skill Build—where I can help you develop hitting skills anytime, anywhere using anything.

Remember: Intelligence tops being smart.

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C.J. Stewart has built a reputation as one of the leading professional hitting instructors in the country. He is a former professional baseball player in the Chicago Cubs organization and has also served as an associate scout for the Cincinnati Reds. As founder and CEO of Diamond Directors Player Development, C.J. has more than 22 years of player development experience and has built an impressive list of clients, including some of the top young prospects in baseball today. If your desire is to change your game for the better, C.J. Stewart has a proven system of development and a track record of success that can work for you.