2019 High Performance Academy

The 2019 High Performance Academy saw a continued focus on tool development, specifically arm strength and hitting power (exit velocity). In addition to these focus areas, there was an increased emphasis on more deliberate practice methods and creating an uncomfortable training environment. A substantial increase in the use of technology was seen for the purpose of strengthening strengths, addressing weaknesses and validating our coaches teaching methods.

To achieve these outcomes, a structured throwing and arm care program was once again rolled out, with a large importance placed on throwing volume and intensity whilst maintaining movement efficiency. We had some great results, with the group seeing an average of a 3.12 MPH increase in throwing velocity.

From a pitching standpoint, Troy Scoble did an outstanding job. We dove in for a deeper look into what their individual pitch profiles looked like, specifically when it comes to spin rate and spin efficiency. This aided in helping the pitchers to understand how they could best utilise the weapons in their arsenal and what part of the zone would be the best to attack.

Offensively, deliberate practice was a key attention whilst also enforcing that an uncomfortable training environment was to be maintained in order to continue to progress. To help achieve this, each session would contain a variety of movement sequencing drills, high velocity fastball machines and overhand flips. The latter 2 were to better prepare the athletes for competition, by simulating the plane and velocity of pitches in a game setting. Every athlete in the program set personal records for themselves in exit velocity, whilst also increasing their average exit velocity and average launch angle, which are all vital factors in the repeatability of a swing in competition.

Overall, we had another successful program and the athletes began to understand that it is ok to fail in practice, and that deliberate practice and uncomfortable training environments were essential if we are to truly prepare to games.

Chris Adamson

High Performance Manager