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', ); inspiration – SMARTER Team Training https://smarterteamtraining.com Baltimore Coaching for Teams and Athletes Fri, 09 Oct 2020 02:03:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.10 Emotions Will Be Overwhelming https://smarterteamtraining.com/emotions-will-be-overwhelming/ Sun, 13 Oct 2013 12:26:12 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=7016

I hope that you are enjoying your summer vacation since they always seem to end too soon. However, this is a different summer for you. It is a summer of transition where you will start to define the next chapter in your life not only on the field but in the classroom as well. I hope you are as excited to join our family as we are to welcome you to campus.

As you step onto campus, emotions will be overwhelming. You may feel excited, anxious, and possibly a little fearful. It is a time of unknown and everyone goes through it. You will meet all sorts of people; every student here has their own story so keep in mind that you are the author of your own chapter and that you control every step of your life. Keep this in mind every day you wake up, and before you know it you will have brought success to every aspect of your life.

When you step on campus, you will immediately be part of a unique team. This takes energy, hard work, and discipline to take charge of your life and balance the ever demanding challenges of being a student athlete. Stay on top of your studies, and let everything on the field come to you. There will be adversity waiting around every corner but remember that you have already set yourself apart from others. It is exactly this quality that brings excitement into our locker room as we look forward to the season.

I hope that you are eager to get on campus. You are becoming part of a legacy that is bigger than either of us. It will not take you long to understand what I am talking about, as you will meet other men that want to succeed just as bad as you. There is a reason that you were asked to become a part of this team and that is to win a championship. It will not be easy, and our team and coaches will challenge you every day. Expect nothing less than the very best from yourself and remember that it takes hard work to fulfill dreams.

Enjoy the rest of your summer and I look forward to meet you in the fall.

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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A Winning Attitude https://smarterteamtraining.com/a-winning-attitude/ Sun, 06 Oct 2013 12:16:10 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=7015

Being a part of this team is something very special. In just a few weeks I will be a proud alumnus. I have gone through four years of hard practices, great wins, and devastating defeats. But the one thing that I have learned over the four years is that nothing comes easy. Hard work, dedication, and commitment will be the keys to your success. Being a college athlete is a 24 hour, 7 days a week job. Not only are you representing your college on the field as a player, but you are representing yourself, your teammates, and your college off the field as well. As you arrive on campus in the fall you will be received by an instant family of teammates and coaches.

The one key piece of advice that I can leave you with is to come into the fall with great expectations. You chose this institution for one reason, and that is its winning attitude and rich tradition. Come into the fall in great condition because as you will soon find out you will be starting right away in the fall. It is not just about playing the game you love, strength and conditioning is a very important part of it. That aspect of the game will determine a large part of your season’s outcome. Enjoy your upcoming season and your trip throughout a completely new and exciting part of your life.

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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Spend Your Time Wisely https://smarterteamtraining.com/spend-your-time-wisely/ Sun, 29 Sep 2013 12:27:52 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6912

I hope you are having a great time in your senior year of high school because it goes by very fast. We have heard about your final season and congratulations on all of your accomplishments. You are going to have a long break before you have to report to summer school and I really recommend spending your time wisely. I felt as though I came into summer school physically prepared because I worked out and did well in the workouts that were given to us by Coach Taylor. It really helps to be in good shape when you get here because you will be ahead of the game. You do not want to be out of shape because then you will have to do even more work to catch up with the rest of the team. In post season this year, we really emphasized on not giving up and finishing all of the tasks. The workouts are challenging but if you stick together as a team you will be fine.

Summer school is a lot of fun but also a lot of work. It gives you a chance to really bond with some of your teammates and become great friends on and off the court. We all have high expectations of you, so don’t let us down! Our team has been working extremely hard in the post season with all of our workouts. We plan to carry our hard work throughout the summer and the upcoming season. We want all of you upcoming freshmen to be a part of it because we want a great season.

Have fun this summer and can’t wait to see you!

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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Increase Your Commitment https://smarterteamtraining.com/increase-your-commitment/ Sun, 22 Sep 2013 12:39:47 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6911

It sounds like you have had a very successful year with your high school and AAU programs. It’s very encouraging to know that our new freshmen class will be bringing in a lot of talent and experience for the upcoming season.

Although it’s obvious that you have worked hard, it is equally important that you increase your commitment over the next few months in anticipation for summer school. Our training is tough, but as long as you put in lots of work now with your strength, core and fitness training, I don’t foresee you having problems with the workouts.

I know I was really nervous coming in as a freshman because I didn’t know what to expect at all. I hadn’t done that much strength training before, but it really didn’t take long for me and the other freshman to catch up. I remember before I got to school that I tried to incorporate all the components of the strength and conditioning manuals into my workouts, and ended up getting overwhelmed. Just remember, if you have any questions before you get here, Coach Taylor doesn’t mind answering them. It shows that you’re committed and taking a real interest. Also know that as long as you keep working out and pushing yourselves now, you’ll be that much further ahead when summer school comes around.

I hope you have a lot of fun for the rest of your senior year. I can’t wait to see everyone in the fall!

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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Leave Everything On The Field https://smarterteamtraining.com/leave-everything-on-the-field/ Sun, 15 Sep 2013 12:17:45 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6910

I hope you are excited to be part of the team. Take advantage of the next few months. The summer is the best opportunity to prepare for the college season. You are expected to follow the summer workout schedule to the best of your ability. This is the toughest time to do the work, so take on the challenge. When you are on your own, you need to be motivated to push yourself to your limits when there is no one running by your side. Do your job, and come into the fall prepared to achieve the goals and ambitions of this team.

Myself, and the rest of the squad, have very high expectations for this season. A conference title and a National Championship are goals well within our reach. We must do whatever it takes to get there. It will take sacrifice and dedication, and a willingness to fulfill your role on this team. Take charge and start to prepare now. It will be hard work, but you will be ready for it. Every day you should walk off the field knowing that you got better that day. Leave everything on the field, in games, and in practice. Once you step off the field, you cannot get that time back, so expect to give 100% every minute you are on the field.

We are a team and we always support each other. When you are down, expect your teammates to pick you up, and expect to be there for others. From freshmen to seniors, we are in this together. You are an equally important part of what will make this team great, so never step back because you are a “freshman”.

Part of being a member of this team means taking personal responsibility for your own actions. We have hours dedicated to team practices, but take advantage of the opportunity to do individual workouts. The extra time and dedication will make you a great player. You can always get better, always reach for the best, and then go farther.

Come in prepared for your first season. Be ready to feel the pride of wearing our school name across your chest. Come in ready to challenge the returning players. Show them how hard you are willing to work for this team. From day one set the standard high.

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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Are You Ready For A Full 60 Minutes? https://smarterteamtraining.com/are-you-ready-for-a-full-60-minutes/ Sun, 08 Sep 2013 12:41:42 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6909

As we all know, our sport is very demanding. We push our bodies to its limits for a full 60 minutes, then need and expect it to recover for another game just a few days later. It is important that we get our bodies in the best physical shape possible, so that it can meet the demands we place on it. We must get prepared starting now. It does not matter that the fall is our off-season; this does not mean that we can wait until winter break to prepare for the season. The work must start now!

I do not think anyone has been in better shape than where we got with Coach Taylor’s training. We place our trust in Rob to get us to where we need to be fitness wise and we believe he can get us there. This trust and belief means that we must follow the Summer workout program he has given us. We should give our all in every workout. Doing it not because we have to, but because we want to. We need to challenge ourselves every time we workout, whether it be running, lifting, or even just throwing a ball around.

We want to have a successful season this year, but to reach this success we must put in the hard work. The fall will be challenging, but it should not be a struggle. Now is the time we must have the discipline to follow the Summer packet, so that we do not have to waste time in the fall getting fit. The Summer packet will get you to where you need to be at the beginning of the fall, and we will only get better from there. Enjoy the summer, enjoy the challenge of pushing your body through workouts, and let’s get ready to have a successful season.

Sincerely,

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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We Need YOU https://smarterteamtraining.com/we-need-you/ Sun, 01 Sep 2013 12:29:38 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6908

I hope you have been enjoying your summer so far, but now it’s time to get to work! The more work you put in now, the more you will benefit in the future. That one extra sprint could win you playing time, or even a starting spot. Every little bit you do truly makes a difference.

Keep in mind you are no longer titled a “recruit.” You now have a name and number on this team and we are all so excited to have you joining us! It is our job to come into the fall fit so we can get right into training. The more time we spend on having to get fit during practice, the more practice time we lose causing us to fall behind other programs. It would be a lie for me to say we won’t be doing preseason fitness, but the coaches are willing to have us do less fitness if we are willing to come in more fit. Our team is ready to step forward and we need your help! I know how hard it can be some days to motivate yourself to go outside in the hot summer to do fitness, but it is something that just has to be done. We have extremely high hopes for all of you and getting fit is the first step. Test yourself on those days where fitness is the last thing you want to be doing. Think about our team and get out there and get it done. This program is your future and it will all pay off…I promise. All your hard work will pay off on the morning of the YMBI. When you pass that test you will know what I’m talking about.

The summer is a time to spend time with your friends and family before heading off to college. Enjoy your time with them, but keep your new family and friends in the back of your mind. This team is going to be your new friends and this program is going to be your new family. You are going to make 20 new best friends just as I did. The summer workout is your chance to begin to adjust to the demands of our program before actually setting foot on campus. Enjoy the rest of your summer and get ready for an amazing fall! The NCAA tournament is in our near future, so get ready!! We DO NOT want the season to end like it did last year. I will see all you in August! Can’t wait!

Sincerely,

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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Tears And Heart Break https://smarterteamtraining.com/tears-and-heart-break/ Sun, 25 Aug 2013 12:09:36 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6907

Last fall I left the field with tears in my eyes. I watched our seniors’ hearts break as they played their last competitive game. Last fall will not be a reoccurrence this year.

Although last season ended in disappointment, now is the time to move forward. Nine seniors, including myself, want to make the most of the last season of their lives. With your help this can be possible.

I want to walk off the field knowing that I played my last few minutes just as hard, if not harder, than my first, and I want your help to accomplish this goal. Together, as a team, we can work harder than ever before. We can be faster, fitter, and more technical as an entire unit. Prepare yourselves because this will not be easy.

Hard work and perseverance will enable our team to achieve greatness and this starts today. Go for a run today and during the run think about what you hope to achieve in your career. Think how you will reach both your personal and team goals because believe me, time passes so quickly. One moment I was a freshman and today I am in one of my last school days of my junior year.

If the entire team comes to preseason in shape and ready to work, preseason will be that much easier. We will run in scalding hot temperatures, but when you look to the people on your right and on your left you will know the true sense of the word “team.” Our team is such a close knit unit. When you workout on your own this summer think about the other people on the team around the country, working just as hard as you.

Throughout the summer if you have any questions regarding our team, school, or anything at all please do not hesitate to call me or any other person on the team. We are now all interconnected through the game we love and from the first moment we step on the field in August, we will all become teammates.

Sincerely,

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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You MUST Be Prepared https://smarterteamtraining.com/you-must-be-prepared/ Sun, 18 Aug 2013 12:19:31 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6906

You are entering a unique community at a very exciting time with our first league championship and second consecutive playoff appearance. Work ethic, dedication, teamwork, and a strong tradition are attributes we have embraced over the years. We have returned the program to where it should be. However, there is so much more we want to accomplish. We expect to compete for our second title and go even further in the playoffs.

This program is a family in every sense of the word. We laugh, sweat, bleed, struggle, and prevail together. Relying on each other for support on and off the field allows us to grow as players and coaches. There will definitely be tough times physically and mentally. From studying film and scouting reports, to fitness tests and seemingly endless practice, we stick together through it all and this is what makes the good times even better.

You MUST come in this fall prepared. We can not afford to spend extra time on fitness and stick work come September. I am asking you to work harder than you have before, come in to the fall ready to compete. It starts when you finish reading this letter. Spend an extra half hour in the gym then you normally would. Double your stick work reps, get more shots, and spend more time on the wall. The harder you work now the easier it will be when September rolls around. Enjoy your summer, but keep the program in the back of your mind and DON’T CUT CORNERS.

Give my best to your family,

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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A Job And A Privilege https://smarterteamtraining.com/a-job-and-a-privilege/ Sun, 11 Aug 2013 12:39:21 +0000 https://smarterteamtraining.com/?p=6905

I hope this letter finds you healthy and happy. I first want to express my feelings about your final couple of weeks in high school. Over the rest of your tenure at your school it is imperative that you take advantage of every moment you have. Enjoy your friends and family from home because in a matter of a couple of months you are going to find yourself embarking on an entirely new lifestyle.

Your summer is your time to have fun and relax but as an incoming freshman and an integral member of the team you have responsibilities to fulfill and uphold. You committed the next four years of your life to this institution because you bought into the way our community represents each other and ourselves. I am very confident that you already understand the hard work and dedication that you must put forth in your upcoming days. However, I cannot over emphasize the importance of you being ready and capable to work upon your arrival.

Coach Taylor has put together a program for you to follow over the summer. These bound pages are your guidelines to success. Do not disregard them or take them lightly. Just to give you an insight of the type of work your teammates are doing over the summer, I will explain to you how I am preparing for our upcoming year. Three days a week I will be working on my foot speed, agility, and power. Two days will be strictly devoted to speed training and form running. I will also be lifting as directed in our summer program. On top of strength training and conditioning I will have my stick in my hands as much as possible, fine tuning the skills that are necessary for competition at the Division I Level.

We are a tight knit family and everything you do or do not do effects each athlete in our locker room. Please be prepared to give your best effort day in and day out. What you will experience during your first few weeks here will be like nothing else you have ever done. Playing a sport at this level is a job and a privilege but it will most likely be the most rewarding activity that you participate in over the next four years.

I welcome you to our family and I am very excited to see your new face in our locker room. Best wishes to you and your family.

Your teammate


Throughout my career motivated individuals have surrounded me. This inspiration at times was tough to feel during the daily grind, and other times the real life energy was obvious. When our paths cross, I am proud to see that the athletes come up to me for a handshake or high five and the stories they remind me about put an instant smile on my face.

This new segment will showcase the letters that many have written, myself or the athletes and coaches that I have worked with; to share their inspiration with those we call “teammates.” As you read through the messages that are shared, please remember that what is inside you can separate you from the rest. Look around and you may be surprised how many others are in need of just a little enthusiasm to push them closer to their goals: professionally, physically, mentally, etc.

I will begin with a letter that I sent to a team that I am still very proud of to this day. No names needed. Just a sincere message that I hope can impact others to pay it forward by giving energy to those around them.

Please leave your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. How are you preparing your team, coaches, administrators, staff, co-workers, sons, daughters, mothers, and fathers to have a positive mindset in both good and challenging times?

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