Check out the latest edition of our newsletter!
RANCH REVIEW THE
SPRING 2024
www.texasbaseballranch.com (936) 588-6762
LONG-TERM ATHLETIC SUCCESS THROUGH A GROWTH MINDSET
The Core of Our Philosophy
At the Texas Baseball Ranch ® , we firmly believe that fostering athletic excellence begins with cultivating the right mindset in our young athletes. In the dynamic and competitive world of sports, the role of mental resilience cannot be overstated. It serves as a linchpin, empowering aspiring athletes to rebound from setbacks and navigate the myriad challenges that come with pursuing greatness in their chosen sport. Central to this is a growth mindset, a philosophy that emphasizes continual improvement through dedication and hard work. By instilling this mindset, we aim to nurture a love for learning
In our philosophy, respecting the process is paramount. We emphasize that success in sports is a journey that involves consistent practice, unwavering dedication, and incremental improvements. By understanding and respecting this process, athletes lay the groundwork for sustained success and long-term growth in their chosen discipline.
Handling pressure gracefully is another facet of a robust
mindset that we prioritize. We encourage our athletes to reframe pressure as a privilege and an
opportunity to showcase their skills. By embracing pressure, athletes learn to perform at their best in high-stakes situations and grow as individuals.
and a readiness to embrace challenges among our young athletes. This foundation becomes the driving force behind their journey toward sporting success. One powerful tool in shaping this mindset is positive visualization. Athletes are encouraged to envision
Equally important is the ability to embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth. A positive mindset involves viewing setbacks as valuable learning experiences that contribute to an athlete’s development. By turning failures into opportunities for improvement, athletes build resilience that becomes a powerful asset in facing future challenges.
success, creating a mental blueprint for achievement. This practice not only instills confidence but also helps build a resilient self-belief crucial for peak performance. We understand that even small achievements contribute significantly to the development of a confident and capable athlete. Confidence-building becomes imperative in the pursuit of excellence. It serves as the bedrock for peak performance, allowing athletes to face challenges head-on with a belief in their abilities. Through a disciplined mindset, athletes develop essential skills such as focus and concentration. These skills enable them to block out distractions, stay present in the moment, and perform at their best during crucial moments in competition.
In essence, at the Texas Baseball Ranch ® , we go beyond physical training; we shape the mental fortitude of our young athletes. We understand that a resilient and growth-oriented mindset is the foundation upon which sporting excellence is built. Through a holistic approach that values both physical and mental development, we strive to empower our athletes to reach their full potential and excel in the competitive world of sports.
–Coach Ron Wolforth
1
Where You Can DREAM as BIG as Your Work Ethic Will Allow! PHONE (936) 588-6762
ELEVATE YOUR GAME AT THE TEXAS BASEBALL RANCH ® : A Summer of Intensive Training Awaits!
As summer rolls in, the Texas Baseball Ranch ® opens its doors to aspiring baseball players, offering a unique opportunity to transform their game. Known for its Summer Intensive Training Program, the Ranch has become a mecca for those serious about making significant improvements in pitching. The training is a deep, immersive experience in the highly-regarded training methods of the Ranch, aimed at young athletes eager to ascend to the next level — whether it’s making a high school varsity team or potentially being drafted into professional baseball. CATERING TO DIVERSE NEEDS The Ranch’s summer program is uniquely tailored to meet the needs of three specific types of players: • Seasoned Players who have had ample game time in the spring and are now looking to make targeted improvements in specific areas. • Developing Talents who find themselves lagging in critical skills such as velocity, command, and consistency, and seek to bridge this gap. • Injury Recovery athletes who are either dealing with current injuries or are in the process of recovery and need specialized care to return to full health.
We have designed the program to be very flexible so your needs can be met. Athletes can stay anywhere from 2–11 weeks beginning immediately after the Memorial Day Weekend and running through early August.
PROVEN EFFECTIVENESS The effectiveness of the Ranch’s program is evident in its high rate of returning participants. A remarkable 40% of the athletes are returnees, underscoring the success and satisfaction experienced during their previous stints. This loyal following is a testament to the program’s impact on the athletes’ performance and development.
Recognizing the value of focused, high-quality training, the Ranch limits the number of participants in its program. This ensures each athlete receives the maximum benefit from the program’s offerings. Moreover, an “Early Bird” savings is available through March 15, 2024, incentivizing early registration and guaranteeing a spot in this sought-after program. NATIONAL RECOGNITION The success and innovation of the Ranch’s training methods have not gone unnoticed. Garnering national attention, the program has been featured in prominent publications like Sports Illustrated, Men’s Journal, and ESPN Magazine. Furthermore, Coach Wolforth’s groundbreaking methods have been spotlighted in a special on CBS’s “60 Minutes Sports” and ESPN, highlighting the unique and effective approach of the Ranch. CONCLUSION For those serious about their baseball aspirations, the Texas Baseball Ranch’s ® “Summer Intensive Training Program” offers more than just training; it’s a journey toward excellence. With its holistic approach, personalized training, proven effectiveness, and national acclaim, the Ranch stands as a beacon for young athletes aiming to elevate their game to new heights. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative experience. Remember, early registration not only secures your spot but also offers substantial savings. Join the ranks of the dedicated athletes who return year after year, and take your first step toward pitching greatness. To register, call (936) 588-6762 or complete the enclosed yellow registration form.
A HOLISTIC AND PERSONALIZED TRAINING APPROACH The Texas Baseball Ranch ® goes beyond conventional baseball training, which often focuses narrowly on mechanics. Recognizing the complexity of the human body and the demands of high-level performance, the Ranch uses a holistic training method.
Breaking away from the standard one-size-fits-all model, the Ranch prides itself on its highly personalized training plans. Each athlete undergoes video analysis, a movement screen, and pitch data measurement leading to a tailored training regimen focusing on your specific needs and performance constraints, which could be velocity, command, off-speed pitches, or even health and durability. You will also experience our powerful mindset presentations. It is not only important to us to help you develop physically but also mentally. When combined, your performance can skyrocket.
2
www.TEXASBASEBALLRANCH.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.NewsletterPro.com
PITCHING FOR SUCCESS The Pros and Cons of Travel and Select Teams
REMEMBERING ONE OF BASEBALL’S DARKEST HOURS This Month in Baseball History: In February 1951, the South Carolina legislature made a fruitless bid to repair the tattered reputation of one of the state’s most famous native sons — Shoeless Joe Jackson. The Chicago White Sox outfielder was one of eight players accused in the 1919 Black Sox scandal of taking a payoff to throw the World Series to the Cincinnati Reds. Jackson, one of the most popular and skilled players in the game, denied taking part. But the facts were murky, and all eight players were banned from the game for life. Jackson’s guilt has been fiercely debated. Supporters, including South Carolina legislators and even the U.S. Congress, have urged that he be reinstated and inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. It never happened, however, and the affair has left a lasting mark on the game. The tough Black Sox penalties have been credited with wiping out gambling in baseball for decades. No expert can predict with any certainty which child or teen will be a star at age 19 or 21. This simply is not possible until young players have gone through puberty and taken the form of the adults they will eventually become. An athlete’s future in the sport will be determined by their skills and strengths at age 18 — not at age 8, 10, 12, 14, or even 16. Consider the example of NBA superstar Michael Jordan. As a sophomore in high school, this prodigious athlete did not make the cut to play on the varsity team. Or what about Roger Clemens? One of the most dominant players in major league history, Clemens, was only the third-best pitcher on his high school team and received just one scholarship offer — to a junior college nearby. These athletes developed into two of the greatest players of their generation, but no one could foresee their stardom when they were 16 years old. The bottom line: The next time anyone claims your young player needs early exposure to regional or national recruiting and performance-based evaluations to achieve success in college or professional ball, be wary. Travel and select ball can help young players develop the mental and emotional stability needed to thrive under pressure. Still, revolving door rosters and heavy-handed recruiting will not help children. Always remember that select and travel ball is the mode, not the destination. To benefit your young player, always choose playing time, skill development, and practice opportunities over flashy programs focused on prestige.
A common claim among coaches is that playing travel or select ball is vitally
important in positioning young players for college scholarships or the professional draft. Whenever I hear this argument, I am immediately suspicious that the person promoting it is in a position to profit financially by recruiting overzealous parents to their programs. Travel and select programs are a blessing and a curse. They offer players a higher level of competition. However, the dedication, discipline, and intensity required can be valuable as long as adults and players keep the player’s performance in the proper perspective. My greatest fear is that young athletes may be damaged mentally or emotionally by the pressure before they can figure out the game physically.
Travel ball and select ball require a greater commitment of time and energy. Basically, these programs are a business — even for coaches, players, and parents of the 10-year-old ball player. And the claim by some that gaining “exposure” through these programs is essential to success in college or pro baseball runs counter to everything we know about how young players develop.
UPCOMING RANCH EVENTS
ELITE PITCHERS BOOT CAMPS: • MAY 25-27 (SAT-MON) • JUNE 7-9 (FRI-SUN) • JUNE 21-23 (FRI-SUN) • JULY 5-7 (FRI-SUN)
• JULY 19-21 (FRI-SUN) • AUGUST 2-4 (FRI-SUN) • AUG. 31- SEPT. 2 (SAT-MON)
SUMMER INTENSIVE TRAINING PROGRAM • BEGINS MAY 28TH & RUNS THROUGH AUG. 8
WWW.TEXASBASEBALLRANCH.COM/EVENTS
A SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR OATES SPECIALTIES ! EQUIPMENT PROVIDER,
www.OatesSpecialties. com/Durathro
3
Where You Can DREAM as BIG as Your Work Ethic Will Allow!
PHONE (936) 588-6762
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.NewsletterPro.com
FIRST-CLASS MAIL US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
www.texasbaseballranch.com 5451 Honea-Egypt Road Montgomery, TX 77316
(936) 588-6762
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
PAGE 1 A Growth Mindset for Athletes Leads to Success PAGE 2 Take Advantage of Summer Training to Elevate Your Game PAGE 3 Mastering the Curveballs of Travel and Select Teams
The Tarnished Legacy of the Chicago Black Sox
PAGE 4 A Health Secret From Chris Hemsworth
Why Hollywood Stars Use This Unique Recovery Tool READY TO TAKE THE ICY PLUNGE?
ENHANCES EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING Cold-water immersion has also been credited with offering emotional and mental benefits. While the research is not exhaustive, many proponents attest to improved mood and mental clarity following a dip in cold water. PROVIDES ANTI-INFLAMMATORY EFFECTS One of the critical assumptions about cold-water immersion is its ability to reduce inflammation, particularly in skeletal muscles. While human data are limited, many believe the practice may be effective for this purpose. IMPROVES METABOLISM While the science is still in its infancy, some evidence suggests that the body has to work harder to maintain its core temperature when exposed to cold water, potentially aiding in weight loss and metabolic function. More comprehensive research is needed to substantiate many of these claims, but the existing body of evidence makes a compelling case for the potential advantages of cold-water immersion. Whether for athletic recovery or general wellness, this trendy practice may be worth putting in your routine.
Want to look like Chris Hemsworth or Madonna? One way to start is by taking ice baths, which helps these celebrities keep their physiques in tip-top form. And they are not alone as other A-listers such as Tom Cruise, Jason Momoa, and Zac Efron use it, too. Cold-water immersion, sometimes called cold water therapy or cold swimming, is increasingly recognized for its potential health benefits. While the experience may be shocking initially, its effects could be well worth the initial discomfort. Here are some of the benefits. REDUCES MUSCLE SORENESS After a grueling workout, many people turn to ice baths or cold showers to ease sore muscles. Cold-water immersion has shown promise in reducing delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) compared to passive interventions such as rest or heat packs. BOOSTS IMMUNE SYSTEM A plethora of anecdotal evidence supports the immune-boosting potential of cold-water immersion. People who regularly partake in cold swimming often report that they “haven’t been ill” for extended periods.
4
www.TEXASBASEBALLRANCH.com
Published by Newsletter Pro • www.NewsletterPro.com
Texas Baseball Ranch ® 2024 “Extended Stay Summer Program” Participation Form ** EARLY-BIRD SPECIAL** (Please complete and return this form) Athlete: ________________________________________ D.O.B.: ___________ Parent’s Name: ____________________________ Address: T-shirt Size: City: State: Zip: Parent’s Phone: _________________________________________ Player's Phone: ________________________________________ Parent’s E-mail: _________________________________________ Player’s Email: _______________________________________ Dates you will be at The Ranch this summer - From ___________________________ to _______________________. Please check below the number of weeks you will be joining us at The Ranch. ** If you have never been to a Ranch event before, there is a 3-week minimum stay requirement ** $500 Savings – only valid if received by March 15th, 2024 ______ $3299 for 2 weeks or 3 payments of $1100 ______ $3699 for 3 weeks or 3 payments of $1233 ______ $4099 for 4 weeks or 3 payments of $1367 ______ $4449 for 5 weeks or 3 payments of $1483 ______ $4799 for 6 weeks or 3 payments of $1600 ______ $5099 for 7 weeks or 3 payments of $1700 ______ $5399 for 8 weeks or 3 payments of $1800 ______ $5649 for 9 weeks or 3 payments of $1883 ______ $5899 for 10 weeks or 3 payments of $1967 ______ $6099 or ALL 11 weeks or 3 payments of $ 2033 Regular Registration – AFTER March 15th, 2024 $3799 for 2 weeks or 3 payments of $1267 $4199 for 3 weeks or 3 payments of $1400 $4599 for 4 weeks or 3 payments of $1533 $4949 for 5 weeks or 3 payments of $1650 $5299 for 6 weeks or 3 payments of $1767 $5599 for 7 weeks or 3 payments of $1867 $5899 for 8 weeks or 3 payments of $1967 $6149 for 9 weeks or 3 payments of $2050 $6399 for 10 weeks or 3 payments of $2133 $6599 for 11 weeks or 3 payments of $2200 *NOTE* - Rates include an equipment fee. Each participant is required to have a set of equipment for the summer program. Method of Payment I am enclosing a check in the amount of $ made payable to: Your Risk-Free “Texas Size” Money-Back Guarantee It’s simple: Come to the Texas Baseball Ranch ® . Put us to the test. Stay the entire fi rst week. Absorb all the coaching, the personal attention, the fun, the whole TBR experience. If, by 4:00pm on Thursday, you aren’t delighted with the Extended Stay Summer Program, for any reason, or no reason, just let us know. Your admission will be cheerfully and immediately refunded. The TBR Summer Program runs weekly (Monday-Thursday) from May 28th – August 8 th . *The week of May 28th will be Tuesday - Friday.
Ron Wolforth’s Texas Baseball Ranch (or RWTBR) 5451 Honea-Egypt Rd., Montgomery, TX 77316
Please charge my credit card $ I would prefer to have my payment divided into 3 equal monthly payments of $ Credit Card (circle one): VISA MASTERCARD DISCOVER
AMEX
Card Numbers:
Expiration Date:
Auth. Code:
Name on credit card: Billing Address for credit card (if different fromabove):
4 Easy Ways to Register: 1) Scan & email to Info@TexasBaseballRanch.com 2) Mail to the address above 3) Take a picture and text to (317) 749-4220 4) Fax to (936) 873-8795
Cancellations: A FULL refund will be made for any cancellations 3 weeks prior to the start of your scheduled session. After that there is no refund. You can however apply your fee to a session in Summer 2025. There are no make-ups or refunds for sessions missed.
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator