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The tug-of-war between a private instructor's individualized techniques and a team coach's system creates genuine confusion for young athletes. This tension—particularly acute for pitchers and hitters—forces kids to choose between specialized instruction they've paid for and the coach who controls their playing time.

Drawing from experience as both a Division I pitcher and youth coach, I tackle this delicate situation head-on. The reality? There is a right answer. When a general team coach without specialized expertise tries overriding the mechanics taught by a dedicated pitching or hitting instructor, it disrupts the 5,000 hours needed for skill mastery and creates unnecessary mental stress.

Consider the softball changeup example—coaches often teach just one grip to an entire team for convenience, ignoring the crucial variables of hand size, wrist movement, and physical differences that determine which grip works best for each individual athlete. This one-size-fits-all approach sacrifices quality for coaching convenience.

Parents navigating this conflict should assess three critical questions: What's your child's long-term athletic goal? Who truly knows your child's body mechanics better? Which method prioritizes individualized progress over generic instruction? The answers provide clarity on which path serves your athlete's development.

I offer practical strategies for resolving these coaching conflicts with respect and effectiveness: communicate privately with coaches rather than creating public confrontations, seek performance-based compromises, encourage your athlete to advocate for themselves, and document private training sessions. The PGM Athletic Performance Planner provides an excellent tool for tracking this specialized instruction.

Remember the three C's your young athlete needs: consistency, clarity, and confidence. When we prioritize long-term development over immediate conformity, we create an environment where young athletes truly thrive—both on and off the field. Share this episode with another sports parent navigating these same challenging waters!

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🚨 Think early specialization is the key to success? Think again! 🚨

Over 90% of NCAA Division I athletes played multiple sports in high school. Yet, so many young athletes are pressured to specialize too early. 🏀⚽🥎🏈

In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina sits down with Summer Montabone—retired pro athlete, mindset coach, and best-selling author—to break down why playing multiple sports builds stronger, smarter, and more resilient athletes.

✅ Why multi-sport athletes have a competitive edge
✅ How early specialization leads to burnout & injuries
✅ What college recruiters REALLY look for
✅ How parents can support their young athlete’s mindset
✅ Why using a performance planner can transform an athlete’s game

Whether your child is aiming for the next level or just wants to enjoy the game longer, this episode is packed with game-changing insights. 🎯

🔥 Tune in now & help your young athlete thrive! 🔥

Learn more about Summer Montabone and her resources for young athletes - https://summermontabone.com/

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Should your young athlete stop playing rec ball and focus only on travel sports? 🥎⚾🏀

It’s a big decision for parents and athletes—when is the right time to transition from recreational leagues to full-time travel ball? In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina breaks down the key factors that can help families make the best choice for their young athlete’s development.

We’ll cover:
✅ The real differences between rec ball & travel sports
✅ How to know if your child is ready for the next level
✅ The time, financial, and family commitments to consider
✅ Why sticking with rec ball longer may actually help some athletes
✅ The impact on college recruitment & long-term development

Not every young athlete needs to leave rec ball early—we’ll help you navigate the decision with confidence.

🎧 Listen now and share with another sports parent facing this choice!

Order  the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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🚨 Big changes are coming to USSSA Fastpitch Softball! 🚨

In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina sits down with Bryan Moyers, better known as Nashville’s Batman, to break down the recent changes to USSSA fastpitch softball’s age requirements and what this means for players, parents, and teams.  Bryan is a franchise owner of Destination Athlete, fastpitch tournament/clinic organization and well known in the Fastpitch world down south.

We’ll cover:
✅ What are the new USSSA age rule changes? (And why they were made)
✅ How this impacts current teams & rosters going into the next season
✅ What this means for young athletes' development & recruiting
✅ How parents can help their athletes adjust and prepare for the new structure

These rule adjustments could have major implications for your child's competitive softball journey. Don't get caught off guard—tune in now to stay informed!

🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more sports parents navigate these changes!

Follow NASHVILLE'S BATMAN: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565659679748

Order your copy of the Athlete Performance Planner at www.PGMAthlete.com

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Did you know over 90% of Fortune 500 CEOs played sports? 🏆
In this clip from the Raising Athletes podcast, host Rob Taormina reveals why competitive sports help shape future leaders. It’s not just about winning games—it’s about building the resilience, leadership, and grit needed to succeed in life and business.

You’ll learn:
✅ The #1 life skill kids gain from sports that translates to career success
✅ How sports teach leadership, teamwork, and mental toughness
✅ Why sports prepare young athletes to be future CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders

Want your child to thrive beyond the game? This is the secret. 💡

🎯 Subscribe for more tips on raising confident, successful young athletes!

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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Is your child ready for school sports tryouts? Whether it's middle school, JV, or varsity, the key to making the team goes beyond natural talent—it’s all about preparation. In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina shares expert tips for parents to help guide their young athletes through the spring baseball and softball tryout season.

You'll learn:
✅ The #1 mistake parents and athletes make before tryouts
✅ How preparation differs for middle school athletes vs. incoming freshmen
✅ Actionable tips to improve skills, conditioning, and mental toughness
✅ What coaches really look for during tryouts (it’s not just talent!)
✅ How to create a tryout timeline to set your child up for success

Give your child the best chance to stand out, feel confident, and make the team this season. Tune in now to learn how you can support their journey!

🎯 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more sports parents support their young athletes!

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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Losing is an inevitable part of sports, but how your child handles losses can shape their confidence, resilience, and long-term success—both on and off the field. In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina dives deep into the best ways parents can help their young athletes process defeat, stay motivated, and turn losses into valuable lessons.

You’ll learn:
✅ What to say (and NOT say) when your child is upset after a loss
✅ How to teach resilience and help your child bounce back stronger
✅ Why 70% of kids quit sports by age 13—and how to keep them engaged
✅ How your reaction as a parent can impact their confidence and mindset

Losing isn’t failure—it’s a stepping stone to greatness. 🎙️ Tune in now and give your child the tools to thrive in sports and life!

👉 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more sports parents navigate their child’s athletic journey!

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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Is a Dad Coach (parent volunteer) or a Paid Coach (club/professional coach) better for your child’s athletic journey? The answer isn't as simple as it seems. In this episode of Raising Athletes, host Rob Taormina breaks down the pros and cons of each coaching style, addressing common stereotypes, player development, and what parents should look for in a coach.

We’ll explore:
✅ Do Dad Coaches really play favorites?
✅ Are Paid Coaches just in it for the money?
✅ How coaching styles impact college recruitment opportunities
✅ When to switch coaches for your child’s growth and success

Whether your child is just starting or aiming for a college scholarship, understanding these coaching differences can make all the difference. Tune in now!

🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more sports parents navigate their child’s athletic journey!

Order your copy of the PGM ATHLETE PERFORMANCE PLANNER - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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Raising an athlete is no easy journey—it’s a commitment filled with highs, lows, and everything in between. In this episode, we’re diving deep into the top six struggles parents face when supporting their young athletes. From managing pressure and expectations to navigating the busy schedules and burnout, we’ll break down the real challenges families encounter and offer practical solutions to help you stay sane while guiding your child toward success.

Whether you're dealing with burnout, competition stress, time management, or the recruiting process, this episode will give you the insight and strategies you need to overcome obstacles and empower your athlete for long-term success—both on and off the field.

If you're a parent trying to balance support, discipline, and motivation, this is a must-listen episode. Tune in now and learn how to navigate the journey like a pro!

🎧 Listen now and take your parenting game to the next level!

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner Today - www.PGMAthlete.com

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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Welcome to Raising Athletes—the ultimate podcast for parents of young athletes working toward college recruitment and long-term success in sports and life. Hosted by Rob Taormina, a former Division I pitcher, veteran coach, and creator of the Positive Grit Method, this show provides parents with the knowledge, strategies, and tools needed to guide their athletes through the competitive world of youth and college sports.

In this first episode, we break down:
✅ What Raising Athletes is all about
✅ Who should listen—parents, coaches, and anyone supporting a young athlete
✅ Why mastering mindset, resilience, and strategic planning is key to success
✅ How this podcast will provide expert insights, real success stories, and actionable steps to help your athlete get recruited and thrive

If you're a parent looking for a clear roadmap to help your child navigate training, college recruitment, and personal development, you’re in the right place. Subscribe now and become the MVP of your athlete’s journey!

🎧 Listen now and start unlocking your child’s full potential!

Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - www.PGMAthlete.com

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