Raising Athletes

Send us Fan MailThe first few weeks of a baseball or softball season can make even confident parents feel stressed, especially when your roster has everything from future stars to kids who have never swung a bat. We share the “secret agenda” we think every Little League coach should adopt: stop coaching only for Opening Day and start coaching so every eight or nine-year-old leaves the season begging to play again. When that’s the target, your practices get simpler, your players get braver, and your sideline stays a whole lot calmer. We break down a practical youth baseball practice plan built for short attention spans: stations, not lines. You’ll hear exactly how to set up small groups, rotate every 10 to 15 minutes, and cover fielding reps, tee work or soft toss, and base running without losing kids to boredom. Then we dig into differentiated coaching, a way to keep one team together while still meeting different skill levels by changing the objective, not the drill. We also explain why pairing experienced players with beginners creates instant leadership and trust. As Opening Day arrives, we walk through a game plan that prioritizes development and confidence: rotate kids through positions within safe limits, use the three-second rule to respond to mistakes before they spiral, and define success as hustle and cheering instead of the score. If you’re coaching youth baseball, coaching youth softball, or just trying to create a positive sports culture, this approach will help your team improve while keeping the fun intact. Subscribe, share this with a parent coach, and leave a review with your best tip for keeping kids excited to play.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send us Fan MailThe walk back from tryouts can be the longest walk of a season. When your kid gets cut from a middle school or high school team, it hits their confidence and it hits you right in the chest. I’m Rob Termina, and I’m talking straight to parents who want to protect their kids without making the moment worse, because the way we respond becomes the lesson they remember.We get honest about why cuts happen in youth sports: limited roster spots, too many kids trying out, position backups, and the reality of upperclassmen. It’s not always “fair,” but it is often predictable, and understanding the numbers game helps you trade outrage for a plan. I share a simple guardrail that can save a lot of regret: the 24-hour rule. No rash emails, no instant quitting, no dramatic moves, just support while emotions cool.Then we shift to what matters most: teaching your child how to pivot. Getting cut can be a bruise, not a broken bone, if we use it to build resilience, self-awareness, and a healthier sports mindset. We also talk about the difference between travel sports and community sports, and why local leagues are essential for kids who love the game but aren’t on the “elite” track right now. There are more ways to play than one school roster.If you care about youth sports, parenting athletes, and keeping doors open for kids, listen now. Subscribe, share this with another sports parent, and leave a review with your best advice: what helped your child bounce back after getting cut?Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textSpring sign-ups can feel like a pop quiz for parents of four, five, and six-year-olds, so we’re cutting through the noise with a practical game plan. We talk about why early specialization is a trap, how variety builds real athletic foundations, and what “serious” should actually mean at this age: consistency, not pressure. If you’ve wondered whether to choose soccer, T-ball, or both, this is your field guide to making smart, low-stress choices that keep kids excited to play.We share a simple framework for picking the right league: development over standings, high parent involvement to keep kids engaged, and a true fun factor measured by whether families come back next season. You’ll hear why private lessons can wait for most five-year-olds, how to be the calm “chief logistics officer” who sets kids up to succeed, and the six words that make the car ride home better for everyone. Along the way, we explore what good coaching looks like for beginners and how small wins build confidence.We also make the case for T-ball as a powerful on-ramp to sport. With the ball on a tee, kids can focus on the stance, the swing, and the sprint without fear of getting hit. That first clean hit, the cheer from the sidelines, and the dash to first base create a positive feedback loop that turns reps into joy. Add in dugout culture—learning to cheer, wait turns, and support teammates—and you’ve got social skills that carry into any sport. Spring should feel like a fresh start, not a recruiting race. If they leave the field with dirt on their knees and a smile on their face, you’re winning.Subscribe for more practical youth sports advice, share this with a fellow parent trying to choose a league, and leave a quick review to help other families find the show.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textStop paying for motion when you want progress. We dig into why so many private lessons fail to create real separation on the field and show how to flip the model from selling minutes to producing measurable outcomes. The focus isn’t more reps; it’s the right reps—built on intent, movement quality, and a game-ready mindset that holds up under pressure.We start by naming the problem: uniform, overpriced sessions that treat a beginner like a travel standout and mistake activity for development. Then we lay out a better path. Tier instruction by age, experience, mechanics, and goals. Set a clear objective for every session and end with a takeaway plus a weekly plan. Teach athletes how to think: self-diagnose after a miss, read pitch rotation, anticipate count leverage, and make in-at-bat adjustments. Movement training becomes a lever for skill—balance, sequencing, rhythm, and strength flow directly into command, bat speed, and adjustability.Our myth-busting segment tackles stubborn beliefs. More reps don’t equal better results; only quality reps with feedback drive change. Pitching lessons can’t be just throwing—health, control, and performance come from movement patterns and sequencing. Tee work isn’t kiddie stuff; used with purpose, it’s how elite hitters refine positions and ball flight. We challenge facilities and coaches to stop babysitting, invest in education, and mentor athletes toward clear, trackable goals. Parents get the accountability script: ask “What’s the goal today? What’s the long-term plan?” If lessons don’t produce visible improvement over teammates who only attend practice, it’s time to make a switch.Modeled on what pros do in the offseason—analyze, measure, adjust—this approach builds smarter, stronger, more resilient athletes. When training targets mechanics, movement, mindset, and game IQ, kids don’t just hit in cages; they perform when it counts. If this resonates, subscribe, share with another family, and leave a review so we can grow a community committed to raising athletes the right way.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textParents want their kids to shine under the lights, but the real transformation happens when the stands are empty and the pressure is off. We break down a clear, no-nonsense plan for using the offseason to make smart mechanical changes, build strength and speed, and lock in confidence that shows up when the games return. Drawing from the routines of elite athletes, we explain why small in-season tweaks and big between-season overhauls are the proven path—and how to apply that rhythm for youth players at any stage.You’ll hear a practical roadmap across hitting, pitching, fielding, and athletic development. For hitters, that means targeted lessons, video analysis, and focused work on grip, hand position, stride, and swing path. For pitchers, it’s a progressive throwing plan, command training, spin efficiency, and safe velocity development combined with arm care and recovery. We also highlight the often-missed pillars: mobility, core stability, lateral movement, first-step quickness, and the smart introduction of new gear so athletes adapt before the first pitch in spring.We tackle the myths that hold families back—like months of total rest, “they’ll fix it at practice,” or “too young for strength”—and offer accessible options such as small group clinics to keep costs manageable without sacrificing quality coaching. The payoff is tangible: fewer injuries, faster skills, and a visible performance jump on day one next season. If you’re ready to trade guesswork for a plan, this guide will help you structure an offseason that compounds into real results. Subscribe, share with another sports parent, and leave a review to tell us what your athlete is prioritizing this winter.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textThe secret weapon in college athletic recruiting isn't talent—it's communication. While fewer than 5% of prospect camp attendees follow up with coaches afterward, this overlooked step makes the difference between being noticed and being recruited.College coaches aren't just evaluating athletic ability during prospect camps and clinics. They're carefully observing behavior, communication skills, and genuine interest in their program. As one coach revealed after recruiting a persistent athlete who contacted them regularly: "It proved she really had a desire to go there, she was committed, and I knew she'd be loyal to the program." This insight reveals the fundamental truth of recruiting—skills will get you seen, but communication gets you recruited.Maximizing prospect camps requires a three-phase approach. Before the camp, athletes should research participating coaches, send personalized introduction emails, and know their athletic metrics to understand how they compare to peers. During the camp, making direct introductions to coaches, demonstrating coachability, asking intelligent questions, and maintaining positive body language can significantly impact a coach's perception. The most critical phase comes after the camp, when sending a personalized thank-you email within 24-48 hours can cement your place in a coach's memory. This follow-up should reference specific camp takeaways, reiterate program interest, and include updated highlights.Parents play a crucial supporting role in this process, but hovering during camps or taking over communications can backfire dramatically. Coaches want to recruit independent young adults who can thrive away from home—not athletes who rely on parental intervention. By helping your athlete develop the confidence to navigate the recruiting process themselves, you're preparing them not just for college athletics, but for success in adulthood. Ready to transform your approach to college prospect camps? Start by implementing these communication strategies at your next opportunity.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textWondering if the USSSA-A All-American Games is worth it for your young softball player? Look no further than this revealing father-daughter journey from tryouts to championship week.Having just returned from Florida where my daughter competed in this prestigious event, I'm pulling back the curtain on every aspect of the experience. Despite initial skepticism about whether this was merely an elaborate money-grab, what we discovered was a legitimately transformative opportunity that exceeded our expectations at every turn.The journey begins with a comprehensive tryout process spanning 23 locations nationwide, where players showcase their skills through athletic testing, position evaluations, and hitting assessments. Unlike many youth sports "showcases," this one genuinely selects based on merit, creating teams of remarkably talented athletes from across the country. What sets this tournament apart is its thoughtful organization - players compete in single-year age groups rather than the traditional two-year brackets, and strict playing time rules ensure every selected athlete gets substantial field time.From the moment we arrived at the USSSA Space Coast Complex with its 15 turf fields and 8,000-seat stadium, it became clear this wasn't an ordinary tournament. The opening ceremonies filled the stadium with cheering families, custom jerseys and trading cards made players feel like professionals, and the coaching staff delivered both technical expertise and genuine encouragement. Perhaps most surprisingly, these teams of strangers quickly developed extraordinary chemistry, with players supporting each other through successes and mistakes alike.Yes, USSSA is running a business, but they're delivering exceptional value in return. For talented softball players seeking recognition and growth opportunities beyond their local travel teams, this experience represents something truly special. After witnessing my typically introverted daughter thrive in this environment, I can confidently call it the best softball experience we've had to date. If your daughter has the skills to compete, don't let skepticism hold you back from what could be a defining moment in her athletic journey.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textStepping up to the plate with confidence doesn't happen by accident. Behind every successful young hitter stands hours of consistent, deliberate practice that most spectators never see.This episode tackles a hard truth many parents need to hear: waiting for your child to show initiative before investing in their athletic development could be silently sabotaging their progress. We explore why consistent batting practice—especially those "boring" tee drills—forms the foundation of hitting success at every level of play. Even Major League stars take hundreds of tee swings weekly, recognizing what many young athletes (and their parents) miss: repetition builds the timing, rhythm, and muscle memory essential for performance when it counts.We break down exactly what an effective weekly hitting regimen looks like, offering a practical blueprint any family can implement: three to four focused sessions weekly, each with specific purposes and progression points. Learn how just 10-20 minutes of intentional practice several times weekly dramatically outperforms longer, less frequent sessions. Discover the secret to making fundamentals fun by ending each practice with positive reinforcement activities that build both skills and enthusiasm.The most important message might be directed at parents themselves. Rather than waiting for motivation to magically appear, successful athletic development requires structure and consistency first. By scheduling regular practice opportunities and treating them with the same importance as homework or team practice, parents give their children the gift of discipline—a skill that translates far beyond sports.Ready to transform your approach to your child's athletic development? This episode provides the roadmap, practical tips for finding resources, and the motivation to start building better routines today. Your young athlete's confidence and performance depend on the habits you help establish now. Share this with other sports parents and join us in raising athletes who understand that greatness comes from embracing the fundamentals.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textThe wheels have fallen off. Your child's team just lost every game at the weekend tournament. No one played well, parents are frustrated, and kids feel defeated. What now?These moments test the character of young athletes, coaches, and sports parents alike. While the natural reaction might be disappointment or even questioning team placement, this episode reveals why these seemingly disastrous weekends might be the greatest gift your young athlete will receive in their sports journey.Drawing wisdom from sports history (even the legendary 1927 Yankees lost 44 games!), we unpack specific strategies for athletes, teams, and parents to transform tournament defeats into powerful growth opportunities. Athletes need space to decompress, reflect, and refocus. Teams benefit from honest acknowledgment without emotional criticism. Parents play a crucial role by encouraging effort over outcomes and maintaining positive perspectives about coaches and teammates.The real value lies in understanding that sports setbacks build resilience that transfers far beyond the playing field. Champions aren't defined by uninterrupted success but by how they respond when facing adversity. Your athlete is now gifted with the opportunity to write their comeback story—one that will make them stronger, more resilient, and better equipped for challenges throughout life.Ready to help your athlete bounce back stronger? Listen now to discover how to frame failure as fuel instead of trauma, and why quitting is never the answer when facing athletic disappointment. The toughest weekends often precede the greatest breakthroughs in both performance and character development.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textEver wondered how to truly measure your child's athletic progress beyond game scores or batting averages? The answer lies in baseline data – a powerful but often overlooked tool that transforms how young athletes develop their baseball and softball skills.In this eye-opening episode, we dive into why metrics matter for young players aged 10-18. Beyond just numbers on a page, baseline measurements like exit velocity, throwing speed, and agility times create a roadmap for athletic development that benefits players, coaches, and parents alike. These aren't arbitrary figures – they're guideposts that college recruiters and scouts actively look for when evaluating talent and projecting future potential.What makes baseline testing truly transformative is its psychological impact. When young athletes can literally see their progress through improved metrics, it creates a powerful motivation cycle that keeps them engaged during the challenging moments of sports development. Rather than waiting weeks for game performance to reflect their hard work, metrics provide immediate feedback and validation. This visibility builds confidence, creates healthy self-competition, and teaches athletes to connect effort with results – arguably the most valuable lesson sports can offer.We share practical insights about implementing regular testing (ideally quarterly), documenting progress visually, and using tools like athlete performance planners to track development. For parents and coaches committed to supporting young athletes, this episode provides the framework for informed decision-making about training priorities and realistic developmental expectations. As we emphasize throughout – you can't manage what you don't measure, and measurement is the first step toward mastery. Ready to give your young athlete the competitive edge they deserve? Listen now and discover how data transforms potential into performance.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a text"Have you ever seen the movie We Bought a Zoo? Well, I just bought a baseball and softball training facility."What happens when parental support meets opportunity? In this deeply personal episode, I share my recent decision to purchase a training facility near our home—a move that aligns perfectly with my triplets entering ninth grade and their growing passion for baseball, softball, and volleyball. This acquisition represents something far more significant than a business venture. It embodies the core philosophy I advocate for all sports parents: creating environments where our children can flourish. When our kids display the magical combination of interest, skill, and passion for a sport, our responsibility shifts from spectator to facilitator.For some families, this might mean traveling farther for the right team or investing in specialized coaching. For others, it could involve making sacrifices to provide better competitive opportunities. Whatever form it takes, our role as parents is to honestly assess our children's abilities and desires, then surround them with the support systems that maximize their potential for success.The reality is that age or circumstances will eventually determine when competitive play ends for everyone. Until that moment arrives, I believe in giving our young athletes every reasonable opportunity to develop—not just as players, but as individuals who understand discipline, passion, and excellence. What opportunities are you creating for your young athlete today?Subscribe to Raising Athletes and join our community of parents committed to supporting young athletes in reaching their full potential both on and off the field.Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textThe 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!Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a text🚨 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 gameWhether 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/Order your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textShould 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 developmentNot 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a text🚨 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 structureThese 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=61565659679748Order your copy of the Athlete Performance Planner at www.PGMAthlete.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textDid 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 leadersWant 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textIs 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 successGive 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textLosing 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 mindsetLosing 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textIs 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 successWhether 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textRaising 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.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textWelcome 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 thriveIf 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 - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete

Send a textIn this debut episode of Raising Athletes, we introduce the Positive Grit Method, a transformative approach to athletic development created by Rob Taormina. Rob is a former Division I pitcher at New York Tech, a coach with over 20 years of experience, and the Executive Director of the Nesconset Athletic Association, which has supported thousands of young athletes since 1975. Named one of Long Island’s top 40 professionals under 40 and the founder of the nationally recognized agency, TalkIQ Media, Rob brings a unique blend of athletic, leadership, and personal development expertise.Learn how his Positive Grit Method combines mental toughness, goal-setting, and resilience to help young athletes excel under pressure, overcome challenges, and reach their full potential. Whether your child dreams of playing in college or simply becoming their best, this episode will show you why Positive Grit is the ultimate edge.Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the best—start your Positive Grit journey today!Get your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner today - www.PGMAthlete.comOrder your copy of the PGM Athlete Performance Planner - https://www.lidiamondbaseball.com/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r3athleteperformance/ Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PGMAthlete