default
Member
If a kid doesn't work on drills without being told, IT'S THE PARENT'S FAULT. If a kid doesn't do their homework, IT'S THE PARENT'S FAULT. That's called being a LAZY PARENT!
Kids are not automatic self-starters, they have to be taught how it works. The average teenager will take the path of least resistance. They will do whatever they enjoy, usually without regard to whether it's good for their future or not. Teaching a good work ethic is a gradual process, and must be taught beginning at a young age. Some of these stupid "reality" shows are great examples of that! If a teenager has planted their lazy a$$ on the couch in front of the TV since they were 6, how do you expect them to just magically become motivated to actually DO something when they are 13?
Ability (both developed AND genetic) and work ethic are completely separate entities. And great softball players will possess BOTH. Having just one won't get you to the top. There are good athletes that somehow get onto a college team, then are overwhelmed by the workload, physical requirements, etc. and drop out. Then there are the kids who are lacking in ability, but make up for it with hustle, hard work and attitude. That's all commendable, but the harsh reality is that it still takes superior skills and ability to compete.
There is no simple reason Cali teams are better - but there are many logical and statistical ones.
Logical = There is a culture of getting the cream of the crop athletes in Cali all on a few top notch teams. In Ohio, this formula gets short-circuited by egos and other priorities (she wants to play with her friends, the coach is a good friend).
Statistical = Sheer numbers. The weather is somewhat a factor, but there are other states that also have great weather not producing superior softball players like Cali does. It's like Ohio is D-IV in Ohio high school, and Cali is D-I. Many more quality athletes to choose from.
The simple fact that this topic is being discussed is a sign that at least some softball folks have identified the disparity. And getting the gears turning is a positive thing!
Kids are not automatic self-starters, they have to be taught how it works. The average teenager will take the path of least resistance. They will do whatever they enjoy, usually without regard to whether it's good for their future or not. Teaching a good work ethic is a gradual process, and must be taught beginning at a young age. Some of these stupid "reality" shows are great examples of that! If a teenager has planted their lazy a$$ on the couch in front of the TV since they were 6, how do you expect them to just magically become motivated to actually DO something when they are 13?
Ability (both developed AND genetic) and work ethic are completely separate entities. And great softball players will possess BOTH. Having just one won't get you to the top. There are good athletes that somehow get onto a college team, then are overwhelmed by the workload, physical requirements, etc. and drop out. Then there are the kids who are lacking in ability, but make up for it with hustle, hard work and attitude. That's all commendable, but the harsh reality is that it still takes superior skills and ability to compete.
There is no simple reason Cali teams are better - but there are many logical and statistical ones.
Logical = There is a culture of getting the cream of the crop athletes in Cali all on a few top notch teams. In Ohio, this formula gets short-circuited by egos and other priorities (she wants to play with her friends, the coach is a good friend).
Statistical = Sheer numbers. The weather is somewhat a factor, but there are other states that also have great weather not producing superior softball players like Cali does. It's like Ohio is D-IV in Ohio high school, and Cali is D-I. Many more quality athletes to choose from.
The simple fact that this topic is being discussed is a sign that at least some softball folks have identified the disparity. And getting the gears turning is a positive thing!