VISIT WWW.DUBLINYOUTHSPORTS.COM TODAY!

MARCH/APRIL, 2011

Celebrating The Spirit

The Central Ohio

Miracle League
A Special Place
The Memorial’s PAGE 4
Clubhouse Kids
Junior-Sized Golf
Experiences
PAGE 23

Girl
Power!
DUBLIN MadJo and Haley
Break The Mold
SCIOTO’S PAGE 10

ERIC STAMETS:
PURPLE ACE
PAGE 14

Coaches Corner
Drills For Skills
PAGE 18
2 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
 Contents

Publisher/Editor
FROM THE EDITOR
Jason Leveridge
VP Advertising/ As you can imagine with the launch of any new publica-
Director Of Multimedia
Amy Leveridge tion, days are long, and full. However, with the necessary
Writers energy and dedication, the results can be highly rewarding.
Maureen Moxley
Accordingly, I'd like to wholeheartedly thank our sponsor
David Lifton
Sandy John and contributor partners, and all those who make Dublin
Photographers Youth Sports possible.
Scott Terna
Since the first issue, we continue work on expanding your
Mark Lynn
Kirk Fisher resource pool and are excited to bring the results of these
Editorial Contributors efforts to the pages of this issue. You will see new names and
City Of Dublin
new perspectives, as we strive to provide the very best sup-
The Ohio State University
Nationwide Children’s Hospital port for our kids and their athletic, as well as life, endeavors.
Lee Taft, CSCS We continue Celebrating The Spirit as we visit with
Nate Fugitt, CSCS
organizations and individuals who inspire us all. The good
Todd Kays, Ph.D.
Bill Dorenkott news—Girl Power and volunteerism are alive and well in
Larry Dornisch Dublin, as is The Central Ohio Miracle League—a shining
Sarah Looker
example of what a youth sports organization can achieve.
Mike James
Tim Saunders I'd also like to extend sincere thanks to everyone who
Josh Jackson contacted us regarding the first issue. The response was over-
Advisory Board whelming. We value your feedback and encourage you to
Matt Earman
Director of Recreation Services continue sharing thoughts at editor@dublinyouthsports.com.
City of Dublin On a related note, please read more of Dublin Youth Sports
Jim Link website and social media launches. These media outlets are
Athletic Director
Dublin Youth Athletics designed to provide 24/7 access to the local content and
Dr. Tom Best expert counsel you seek.
Sports Medicine
The Ohio State University
Dr. Richard Rodenberg
Sports Medicine Jason Leveridge
Nationwide Children’s Hospital Editor
Lee Taft, CSCS editor@dublinyouthsports.com
President
Sports Speed, Etc., Inc.

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or call (800) 592-7760.

4 Organization Profile: The Central Ohio Miracle League

14 PURPLE
REIGN:
10
17
Athlete Profile: Girl Power!
Well Being: Throwing Guidelines For Young Players
DUBLIN 18 Coaches Corner: Drills For Skills
SCIOTO’S 20 Well Being: Concussion Part II - Optimal Recovery
ERIC 23 Events: The Memorial’s Clubhouse Kids
STAMETS 28 Conditioning: Learning To Train

FRONT COVER: ERIC STAMETS Photograph By Scott Terna/www.shotinaction.com

Dublin Youth Sports is a registered tradename with the state of Ohio and is published quarterly by Community Publishing Group, 5930 Wilcox Place, Suite J, Dublin, OH 43016, (800) 592-7760. More information about Community
Publishing Group can be found at www.communitypublishinggroup.com. Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part of any written material, photographs or graphics contained herein is prohibited without
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www.dublinyouthsports.com 3
PHOTOGRAPH BY MARK LYNN
Exuberant celebration of the moment is not uncommon on the Miracle League diamond.
First-year league member, and Rockies player, Trevor Lanning does it with style.

The Central Ohio Miracle League
Diamonds Are
For Everyone
BY SANDY JOHN
E
veryone—team members and spectators
alike—cheers for both teams. The game
lasts two innings, and each player bats
each inning—always making it safely to a
base. The last batter in each inning hits a
grand slam to clear the bases, and the
game always ends happily in a tie. Pinch
me, I'm dreaming! No smack-talking catcher harassing
the batter, no over-zealous coach admonishing his pro-
tégés, no crazed parent heckling the umpire … no, it's
just another day in The Central Ohio Miracle League.
Each Miracle League player has a disability—physical
or developmental—that keeps the child from playing on a
traditional baseball team. The Miracle League makes the
game accessible to players from across the entire Central
Ohio region by providing a specially-adapted playing field
that is completely flat, so even those in wheelchairs can
navigate it. And each player is assigned a “buddy” who
assists the player at whatever level the child needs help.
This, of course, means the diamond is filled with hoards
of humans. That simply adds to the supportive, fun-loving
atmosphere found at the Miracle League field in Darree
Fields Park on Cosgray Road.
The Central Ohio Miracle League was formed in 2004,
inspired by the original Miracle League founded in sub-
urban Atlanta, Georgia, in the late 1990s. In a few short
years, the Central Ohio Miracle League has come a long
way, developing not only the field but an adjacent acces-
sible playground and picnic area. It has also become an
asset to local schools and organizations, being used for
adapted physical education classes and as a gathering
place for groups associated with organizations such as
Nationwide Children's Hospital. Most importantly, it has
allowed hundreds of children a pleasure their families
thought they would never experience—the joy of playing
the national pastime on a warm summer's day.
Batter Up!
There's a lot to gain from participating on a Miracle
League team, said Christy Fields, a special education
Organizations
teacher at Dublin Jerome High School who has been
involved with the league since the beginning, most
recently as executive director. “For many of these chil-
dren, this is the first time they are able to be independent
and come out and play and be like their siblings or peers
at school. For the first time, they have a team and a uni-
form, and it gives them something to talk about with their
peers. It also allows them to build relationships. Many
have the same buddy for multiple years, and the buddies
go to their birthday parties and picnics. The players also
make friends at the playground and picnic area.”
For parents of disabled children, this may be the first
time that they can sit back and watch their children play,
without being the one who is assisting the child, Fields
said. “And sometimes, a cousin, aunt or uncle will volun-
teer to be a buddy, so they can spend special time with
the child.” Or, it may be the first time they are able to inter-
act with their child in an organized sports environment.
"Miracle League has been a wonderful opportunity for
our family to be involved with our daughter, Grayson, on
a whole new level,” said parent Brian Bell of his family's
experience with the League. “My wife Denise, younger
daughter Ainsley, and I have become very involved in the
league, drawn in by the kids and their love of the game.
New parent volunteers naturally experience some level of
apprehension—whether becoming a buddy, a coach, a
board member etc.—but that quickly subsides once you
have a chance to interact with the kids on the field. The
rewards and memories are priceless,” he added.
The vast majority of the Miracle League's 250 players
take part in the Saturday League, Fields said. These are
children ranging in age from 3 to about 20, and each is
assisted by a buddy. True to baseball tradition, each
game starts with the National Anthem, and an announcer
broadcasts the child's name and nickname (which run
the gamut from “Slugger” to “Bullfrog”) before each
at-bat. And, true to Harry Caray tradition, choruses of the
1908 Norworth/Von Tilzer baseball anthem “Take Me Out
To The Ball Game” ring out during a second-inning
stretch. After that second inning, the game ends and the
www.dublinyouthsports.com 5
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6 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011


players enjoy a snack provided by a team parent.
On Monday and Thursday nights, about 40 players on
four teams take part in the Night League. These players
are a little older, from 12 up into their 40s, are more
skilled and don't require buddies. While everyone safely
reaches first base, they can be called out at second, third
or home. “These games go on for hours, because they
just don't want to stop playing,” Fields said. “There are
smiles everywhere.”
Volunteer Central
Keeping the games moving and the players smiling
requires an army of over 300 volunteers. The League is
supported by, and has a continuing need for, volunteers
… with a variety of volunteer positions available.
“Our biggest need is for buddies,” Fields noted.
“Buddies show up 15 minutes before the game and help
their player during the game. The time commitment is
about one-and-a-half hours every Saturday during the
season, May to the end of July. We offer buddy training
every April, where we tell them what to expect, what to
wear and what to bring to the game.” Returning buddies
can watch a quick refresher video online rather than
undergo training again.
Over 250 buddy volunteers hail from all across
Central Ohio, with the majority—as many as seventy-five
percent—coming from Dublin. They must be at least
12 years old. Many return year after year and are assigned
to the same player to maintain consistency in the child's
life. Service groups such as Rotary and Knights of
Columbus provide many adult buddies, and high school
students earning community service hours frequently
volunteer. College students are also enthusiastic volun-
teers. Irrespective of where they come from, volunteers are
invariably touched by the experience and rewarded with
lifelong memories.
“I have volunteered as a buddy and, currently, as a game
announcer,” said Doug Fox, a 6-year volunteer veteran of
the program. “It has been a wonderful experience getting to
know the kids and watching them have fun and develop on
so many levels. It's hard to leave this diamond without a
big smile on your face. I played competitive baseball for
over 15 years and have some great memories … but none
like those of my time here. It truly is a magical place.”
Each team also needs coaches and buddy leaders.
These positions require a more significant time commit-
ment because coaches and leaders contact the players
and buddies each week, communicate with parents,
Organizations
create the player lineup and keep things organized.
“The Miracle League board of directors is all-volunteer
as well,” Fields said. “They are the heartbeat of the league
and put in an enormous amount of time, planning and
preparing for the year. It's a huge undertaking, and board
members donate their time to make the League what it is.”
Preserving the Legacy
Players in the Central Ohio Miracle League also
come from all corners of the greater Columbus area,
with support and donations coming from a wide range
of sources—individual families, civic groups and service
organization—Fields noted. The City of Dublin provided
the land for the field/playground/picnic area, and city
park crews handle maintenance such as cleaning rest
rooms. But the League does have a continuing need for
funds to cover operational costs, upkeep on the special
surface on the field, and to purchase equipment.
“We try to keep the costs reasonable for the players,
so subsidizing the registration costs eats up funds as
well,” Fields said. “And we're always looking to upgrade.
We want to add more to the playground, for example.”
Sometimes, donations come from unexpected
sources. Last year, for example, a Boy Scout troop built
an announcer's booth to protect the public address
system from the elements.
Whether you give time or money, the League will use it
for just one goal, Fields said. “It's all about the kids and
creating an experience they haven't been able to have in
the past. Our main goal will always be to provide a posi-
tive experience for the kids. We expect to keep growing,
and I don't see us going anywhere but up. Our goal is to
continue extending the League's positive impact.”
The Central Ohio Miracle League helps provide our
community's, and neighboring communities', kids with a
rare opportunity to be the “Boys and Girls of Summer.”
As a result, laughter and smiles abound. The thrill and
love of the game are palpable to any casual onlooker.
Take time this summer, or on April 17th (1 through
4 p.m.) at the League’s Fun Day, to visit a truly miracu-
lous place and experience baseball in its purest form.
Witness a shining example of what can be. †
The League’s registration period runs from February
through early May, with program costs of $42 for the
Saturday League and $49 for the Night League. Visit
www.ohiomiracleleague.org to find out more about
registering your child, volunteer opportunities and how
to contribute to the League and its mission.
www.dublinyouthsports.com 7
 City Of Dublin
SwimTown USA!
BY SANDY JOHN
W
hether your inter-
est in the water
includes swim les-
sons for your child
or a competitive
swimming program, the City of Dublin
has developed a swim continuum that
truly has you covered. And, if all you
want is a place to cool off in the
summer, the city's pools are available
for that too.
Dublin has two swim teams for chil-
dren ages 6 to 18—the Dolphins and
the Sea Dragons. The Dolphins, the
more socially oriented of the two teams,
has about 300 members. To join, chil-
dren must pass an evaluation of basic
water skills. The Dolphins practice and
compete for about eight weeks in the
summer, taking part in the N.E.W.
League, said Dave Kuck, head coach
for both teams. Meets are in Dublin and
the surrounding communities.
The Sea Dragons is a competitive
program with two major seasons per
year, fall/winter and spring/summer.
About 240 swimmers participate in this
program, and swimmers must know the
basic strokes. Many older members of
the Sea Dragons swim for local high
school teams as well, concentrating on
the school team during the three-month
school swim season, then returning to
the Dragons for the rest of the year,
Kuck said. The high school teams all
practice at the 11-lane competition pool
at the Dublin Community Recreation
Center (DCRC).
The Sea Dragons compete in meets
around the state and even in some
national competitions—some Dragons
have qualified for Junior Nationals or
8 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
Swimming … A
Lifetime Activity
By: Bill Dorenkott
I have a close friend who runs a swim
school in Australia. The school's unwrit-
ten mantra: From the womb to the tomb.
While a tad crass, the mantra alludes to
an undeniable truth—swimming is a
lifetime activity.
Professionally, I have had the good
fortune of coaching swimming for 20
have gone on to swim for college
years. Personally, I have spent almost
teams, Kuck noted.
every day of my life, since the age of
For many Dublin children, the swim-
five, swimming in or standing next to a
ming experience begins with lessons at
pool. Whether swimming for recreation,
one of the city pools. The city offers
fitness or competitively, the benefits of
programs for children as young as
swimming for exercise are abundant.
three months, when accompanied by a
Water has an almost-magical capacity
parent. A myriad of different level
to sooth and relax while still providing
classes teach children everything from
the benefits of exercise. How often have
the basics of being safe in the water to
you spent a joy-filled day in the water
the finer points of the butterfly stroke.
only to get home and realize that you
“We have as many as 1,000 people
are physically exhausted? Swimming is
taking lessons during a given session,
a whole-body activity that is heart
and have over 4,400 participants each
healthy from a cardiovascular stand-
year,” said Courtenay Chaffin, pro-
point. Swimming is friendly on joints
gram coordinator, with some classes
because of the low-impact nature of
filling up on the first day of registra-
water-borne exercise. Across the spec-
tion. “We've done everything we can
trum of physical activities, few can
to maximize the number of classes
match the cost-reward benefit of time
and slots available. We also give priority
spent in the pool.
to city residents,” Chaffin said.
Exercise in the water can take many
The city's swim classes follow guide-
shapes and forms. From swimming,
lines for the American Red Cross Learn
diving, water polo, synchronized
to Swim Program. For parents who are
swimming, water aerobics to simply
unsure what class they should sign their
playing with friends.
child up for, Chaffin offers a free swim
As the parents of four young chil-
assessment on Tuesdays between
dren, my wife and I place a premium
4 and 7 p.m. at the DCRC.
on activities that get kids out of the
No matter your skill level, a season
house, and keep them coming back.
pass to the City of Dublin pools is a
One of the best ways to introduce your
smart buy. The passes allow access to
child to swimming is through a local,
both community pools —the South
summer-league team. Typically, a
Pool on Woerner Temple Road and the
summer team serves to teach sound
North Pool on Dublinshire Drive. The
stroke mechanics, improve fitness and
DCRC center also has two indoor
most importantly have fun.
pools—a 25-yard competitive pool and
I encourage you to take a plunge …
a shamrock-shaped leisure pool.
the odds are good you will keep
Noodles of opportunity for as much
coming back. †
aquatic fun as your fins can handle …
come rain or shine or snow! Call Bill Dorenkott is the Head Coach of
410-4550, or for more information Women’s Swimming at The Ohio State
go to www.dublin.oh.us/recreation. † University, and is a Dublin resident.
 .com NOW LIVE!
Dublin Youth Sports 24/7
ALL THE RESOURCES,
ALL THE SPIRIT … ALL THE TIME
www.dublinyouthsports.com is now up and running! Visit the
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www.dublinyouthsports.com 9
 Athlete Profile

BY SANDY JOHN

It shouldn't come as any surprise that, in a nation founded on pioneering

spirit, boundless aspiration continues to surface, generation after generation.

I
It’s simply part of the national, cultural fabric.
n the realm of sports, it has
been reflected in great figures
such as Jackie Robinson—
breaking the color barrier in
Major League Baseball—and
in Ila Borders and Katie Hnida,
who both showed that women
can play alongside men in highly-
competitive sports environments.
Well, it appears that very same
blind-to-any-barrier aspiration is
alive and well today in our very own
Dublin, Ohio. As is likely the case
with their historical predecessors,
Madison Hyzdu and Hayley Devine
didn't necessarily set out to be trail-
blazers. They just wanted to play
ball—football in Madison's case,
and baseball in Hayley's. As they've
grown older, following their passion
has meant being the only girl on the
team—and in the entire league.
Meet “MadJo” …
A seventh grader at Grizzell
Middle School, 13-year-old Madison,
affectionately known as “MadJo”
(a combination of her first and mid-
dle names), played tackle football in
the Dublin Football League for five
years, including on an end-of-season
tournament team, before an injury
sidelined her last season.
DYS: Why did you want to play
tackle football?
MadJo: “I was always a daddy's
girl, and my dad and I would play
football in the backyard. I grew to

10 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011

love the game. I played flag football
my first year, and loved it, then went
on to play tackle, and now it's my
passion. I wasn't able to play this
year because I broke my leg, but I
want to play next year. I've been
going to a gym every day and lifting
weights to be big enough and
strong enough to play. I give God all
the credit and glory for giving me
the ability to play football.”
DYS: Is there any limit to how far
you think you can go playing with,
and against, the boys?
MadJo: “I want to go as far as I
can. I also play basketball and soft-
ball. I would like to go to college
and play football. I don't know about
the NFL … I kind of want to go to
the WNBA and play. Maybe that's
more realistic.”
DYS: How do boys treat you on
the field?
MadJo: “The boys treat me well.
They kind of think of me as a guy,
because I've been in the league a
long time—one girl out of 600 boys.
On the tournament team, we played
teams from other places in Ohio
[and when the other team made
comments about playing against a
girl] my teammates told them to
back off, that I was one of them and
I would show them up on the field.”
DYS: What advice would you give to
a little girl who wanted to play tackle
football?
MadJo: “Don't let people tell you
what you can and cannot do. Back
in first grade boys would tell me that
girls can't play football, that there
had never been a woman in the NFL.
I would always say you can't say
that, a girl will show you up some
day. Stick with your dreams and
don't let anything get in your way.”
DYS: Who is your sports hero?
MadJo: “Pete Maravich. He just
proves you can't measure heart. You
simply can't judge their athletic ability
by how large they are or by what
mould they come in. It's measured
by the heart and how determined
you are.”
DYS: Do you think boys benefit from
having a girl on the team?
MadJo: “I haven't ever asked them,
but I think they have more respect
for us girls because of it.”
DYS: What has been the highlight of
your football career so far?
MadJo: “Going into overtime at a
Troy tournament and winning
against Hilliard. It was so exciting.
We had just scored and gotten the
two-point conversion. The opposing
quarterback had the ball on fourth
down—the final play of the game. I
was the defensive end and I went
up the corner and kept taking him
further back. When he finally threw
the ball it was just a little bit short.”
Meet Hayley …
A sixth-grader at Sells Middle School,
Hayley has been playing organized
baseball since starting T-ball at age
five and has been selected to multiple
All-Star teams by her team mates. As
she moved to coach-pitch ball, she
noticed girls were dropping out of the
league. By the time she had reached
the kid-pitch level of baseball, she
recalled, she was the only girl in the
Bronco League.
DYS: Why play baseball with the boys
rather than softball with the girls?
Hayley: “I just grew up playing
baseball. I played in the backyard
with my dad. I tried softball and I
thought baseball was more fun. It's
a faster game, the pitches are faster
and you can hit it harder. It's just
more fun and that's why I've contin-
ued to play baseball.”
DYS: What is your favorite position?
Hayley: “I like playing catcher, and
pitcher is pretty fun too. As the
catcher, you can really see what's
going on in the field, and as pitcher
you can control the game. But the
position I play really depends on the
coach and where I fit in best on the
team.”
DYS: What's the biggest challenge
in being the only girl on the team?
Hayley: “Sometimes I think the
boys on the other team look down
on me because they think I can't
play, but I always prove them wrong.
One time, the other team had a
woman coach who told her players
not to worry about me when I was
pitching because I wasn't that
tough. I ended up striking them out.”
DYS: What's your favorite pitch as a
pitcher and a batter?
Hayley: “My best pitch is a fastball on
the inside corner. A lot of batters like a
fastball down the middle, but I'm a
better hitter with outside pitches.”
DYS: You have played on all-girls
teams in soccer and basketball. Is
there a difference between being on
an all-girls team and being the only
girl?
Hayley: “It's not really that different.
You have to get used to it, and not
care about what others say about
you and how everyone will react.
Sometimes boys on another team
assume I can't play. They'll pitch to
me soft and I'll hit it hard. They'll all
be shocked that I can play. But my
teammates are proud that I am on
their team.”
DYS: Do you have a sports hero?
Hayley: “I admire Jackie Robinson
a lot because everyone would try
and bring him down but he would
stand up for what he believed in.”
DYS: How do other girls react to
you being on a boys' team?
Hayley: “My friends support me.
They don't even ask why I'm not
playing softball.”
DYS: Do you plan to keep playing
baseball?
Hayley: “I am taking a break from
baseball this season so I can volun-
teer with the Miracle League, but I
www.dublinyouthsports.com 11
 Athlete Profile
might try out for the Sells Middle
School baseball team next year.”
No doubt it helps that Hayley and
MadJo both play their sport at a level,
and with a passion, that earns the
respect of other players and coaches.
“MadJo has a passion for playing
football, and there's no tougher per-
son at whatever level she was playing
in,” said Jerry Prochko, who coached
her for five seasons in the Dublin
Football League. “MadJo not only
earned respect as a player during
games, but she was a leader during
practices. It didn't matter what kind of
drill or what part of practice, she was
always full-go and 100 percent. Along
with that hard work ethic, her ‘coach-
ability’ made her a standout player,”
he said.
Hayley exudes a quiet confidence
and doesn't let anything rattle her,
said Brian Swisher, who coached her
in both the DYA Bronco Minor and
12 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
Bronco Major Leagues While having
a girl on the team didn't change the
team dynamics much, Swisher found
the boys on the team did rally around
her and defend her if need be. “Then
she'd strike out the other team and
her teammates would razz the other
team because a girl struck them out.
Boys, huh?,” Swisher said, smiling
and shaking his head.
“Hayley is a heck of a player and a
good kid,” said Swisher, who made
her his first draft pick for his Bronco
Majors team. “I would rather have a
team with heart and a player with a
great attitude.”
The MadJo/Haley story is undoubt-
edly a testament to “Girl Power.” That
said, the hope isn't for every young
girl to scamper off and sign up for the
nearest boys' team. Indeed not. In
fact, reading between the MadJo/
Hayley lines, the real message here is
about “Dream Power”—your dreams
and your aspirations. And by “your,”
read any girl, any boy, any gifted or
impassioned player, or any “doer-of-
anything-at-any-level.” Follow your
dreams, with desire and energy.
Neither the sky, nor the glass ceiling,
need any longer be the limit. †
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Should we encourage girls
to compete in traditionally
male-dominated sports?
Share your thoughts on this
subject on Facebook.com/
dublinyouthsports.
POLL QUESTION
Do we, as a community,
provide the environment
necessary for girls
to compete with the boys
on a level playing field?
Cast your vote on the
www.dublinyouthsports.com
homepage today!

THE FEMALE ATHLETE TRIAD:
KEEPING THE BALANCE
BY JACKIE BUELL
The Female Athlete Triad was first
identified about 25 years ago, and
formally defined in 1997. It is a
serious health problem that
involves inadequate energy balance,
amenorrhea (cessation of the men-
strual cycle), and low bone mass in
female athletes. The condition is
most common in (but not limited to)
sports that emphasize leanness,
such as cross country running,
gymnastics, dance, and figure skat-
ing. In the past 25 years, much has
been learned about symptoms, risk
factors, causes, and treatment
strategies for Female Athlete Triad.
The Triad can happen in female
athletes without the athlete knowing
of the underlying damage and injury
risks. When the female athlete does
not match fuel intake with energy
expenditure, the body enters a state
of low energy availability. As a result,
the female will often have irregular
or absent cycles. Energy imbalance
is not necessarily intentional, as is
the case with dieting or eating disor-
ders, but can be the result of intense
training without intense eating. When
female athletes add a grueling
practice schedule to a busy life, and
regularly forget, or fail, to eat
enough, they end up not having
enough fuel to help the body carry
out normal functions. This places
athletes in a state of chronic low
energy availability.
Fuel/Energy-Expenditure Mismatch
When energy availability is low,
estrogen levels wane. When
estrogen is low enough to stop
menstruation, the lack of estrogen
will also affect bone mass similar to
menopause. Estrogen is protective
of bone so lower estrogen may
mean lower bone mass. When this
happens in a growing female, it
means she may not accrue bone as
well as she would if she were more
optimally fueled. The bottom line is
that when a female athlete does not
have a regular menstrual cycle, it is
in her best skeletal interest to figure
out why. It is not a normal conse-
quence of hard training to lose the
menstrual cycle; it is a metabolic
signal that needs attention. The
average menarcheal age in the U.S.
is about 12.5-years-old. Females
who have not menstruated by age 15
are considered to have “primary
amenorrhea” and should also be
evaluated by the physician.
Nutrition
Rebalancing
Teaching athletes that food is fuel,
and fuel is necessary for good health
and performance is critical to bone
health and, potentially, reproductive
health. Positive body image is
also key as it often drives dieting
behaviors and eating habits for
these athletes. This condition often
begins with simple dieting to control
body weight. Red flags for parents
might be things like changes in
eating habits, weight loss, and
decreased performance alongside
menstrual changes. Just as physi-
cians can evaluate the metabolic
reasons for amenorrhea and bone
mass decreases, registered dietitians
can help an athlete evaluate energy
balance and facilitate nutritional
health. An excellent resource for
more information on the condition
is www.femaleathletetriad.org. †
Jackie Buell Ph.D., RD, ATC
Dr. Buell is a sports dietitian for OSU
Sports Medicine and consultant to
the OSU Department of Athletics. Her
background includes a Bachelor of
Science in Sports Medicine, a
Masters degree in Exercise Science
and a Ph.D. in Nutrition from The Ohio State University.
Dr. Buell is currently also a researcher and clinician in
the Labs in Life at COSI, Columbus.
www.dublinyouthsports.com 13
 FACTS:
Eric Stamets, #8
Height: 6'
Weight: 190 lbs.
Position: Shortstop
Year: 2009 Graduate
School: Dublin Scioto
PHOTOGRAPH BY SCOTT TERNA

14 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS January, 2011

 8
#
Purple Reign
BY MAUREEN MOXLEY
Eric Stamets was a standout on the Dublin Scioto High School baseball
team. He has now taken his talents and love of the game to the University
of Evansville where he is no longer an Irish ace … but a Purple Ace. We
caught up with Eric between spring training sessions.
D
ublin's Eric
Stamets is a
force on the
base paths
and in the
field: He was
named to the
2010 Missouri Valley Conference
(MVC) Baseball All-Conference
First Team and snagged honors
as the first-ever Evansville player
to be named Freshman of the
Year. The accomplished D-1
shortstop took some time to talk
about his experience in Dublin,
and his passion for baseball.
As a freshman at Evansville,
Eric held a school record 41
stolen bases—and ranked among
the nation's leaders. He led the
league in assists with 214—
exceeding his closest competitor
by 50 assists. Eric helped
Evansville to the nation's third-
highest total of double-plays
turned, as he was a part of 51 of
the Purple Aces' league-best 65
twin-killings. Eric was one of 30
freshmen from across Division I
baseball to earn 2010 Pro-Line
Athletic NCBWA Freshman All-
America honors, while being
selected as the only first team
choice at shortstop. Eric started
all 59 games for UE at shortstop
Athlete Profile
as a true freshman last spring; he
hit .321 with 15 doubles, four
home runs and 27 RBI, while
leading the team and ranking
fourth in the MVC with 57 runs
scored. Here's what Eric has to
say about living his dream ...
DYS: Let's roll back the clock ...
when did you start playing organ-
ized baseball?
ES: I was about three or four
years old. I started in T-ball,
moved up to machine-pitch,
played coach-pitch, and then
Little League. When I was eight, I
was invited to play on an All-Star
tournament team—that was the
start of my travel experience. I
started playing in Worthington
and when I was in fifth grade, my
family moved to Dublin and I got
involved in the league here.
DYS: Did you have older siblings
who played? How did you get
into the game?
ES: As a kid—even as an older
kid—you want to be like your
dad. My dad played softball and
baseball when I was little; I got
interested in the game from
watching him. Baseball has been
something that the two of us
have always shared and enjoyed
together.
DYS: Any anecdotes?
ES: When I played in my first All-
Star game, I wore a special neck-
lace under my uniform. My uncle
had passed away and my mom
wore his ring on a chain around
her neck—she let me borrow that
necklace for the game. I knew I
wasn't supposed to wear any
jewelry, but I did it anyway. As a
young kid, I felt like I had gotten
away with something really big. We
did win that game, so, obviously, it
brought me good luck (smiles).
DYS: Have you had any influential
figures in your life over the years?
ES: Sure. One of my first travel
coaches, Mike Kellenbarger had a
big impact on me. He was very
encouraging and motivating—and
he still is. I keep in regular con-
tact with him even today. Danny
Williams was my travel coach
when I first came to Dublin and
really reinforced the little details
of the game. He also taught me
how to pitch and perfect my
bunting. Another influence was
my high school coach, Scott
Marple, who actually played with
Coach Carroll's brother, Jamey,
and initially contacted the staff
here at Evansville. And of course:
My dad. He has taught me so
www.dublinyouthsports.com 15
 Athlete Profile
much about the game over the years.
DYS: Any lessons learned that you
continue to carry with you today?
ES: Try your best. And hustle every-
where—you never know who's on
your heels, or who is watching.
DYS: What do you view as the real
benefits of being involved in youth
sports?
ES: You make lifelong friendships
along the way. And if you decide that
you want to go on and play the
game competitively, youth sports
gives you an excellent base of
knowledge. Learning the game early
is a big advantage.
DYS: What is your training schedule
in college?
ES: It's different in the fall than in
the spring, but essentially we go six
days with one day off. There is team
practice, weights, conditioning and
individual sessions—and then we are
required to go to study tables, which
is a big help on the academic side.
16 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
DYS: How do you keep it all in
balance?
ES: Some of my closest friends are
also teammates so even when I'm
working on my game, I'm still with
the people who I enjoy hanging with;
we also do things outside of prac-
tice, like going to basketball games
to support the others' teams. You
can strike that balance if you try.
DYS: You played many different
sports until recently. What did you
play?
ES: When I was little I played soccer
in addition to baseball; in middle
school at Davis, I added basketball.
In high school it was a little crazy:
Freshman year I played baseball and
football; as a sophomore, just base-
ball; junior year I did baseball and
basketball; and senior year I played
baseball, football and basketball. My
schedule was a little hectic, but it
was a great experience.
DYS: DYS: You were obviously a
good enough athlete to play all of
these sports in high school ... so why
baseball?
ES: I love doing what my dad did—
we have such a bond through the
game. We sit and talk baseball and
strategy for hours. I also picked up
baseball at an early age and so I am
pretty knowledgeable about the
game. There is a real comfort level
due to that experience.
DYS: What are your off-the-field
interests?
ES: I'm like any other teenager—I
like to hang with friends, play video
games, shoot hoops.
DYS: What have been the biggest
challenges and rewards of the path
you have taken?
ES: It is a big challenge making the
leap to Division 1 ball—everyone
that you play is good and there is a
reason they are here. There is no day
off. You have to work harder than
you ever have before to be competi-
tive. The benefit is that after all of
CONTINUED ON PG. 30
 Well Being

Throwing Guidelines for Young Players:

Let's Play Ball!
BY RICHARD RODENBERG, MD and TRAVIS GALLAGHER, ATC

T
here is an increasing rate of shoulder/elbow injuries seen once mastered, a change-up can be added. Physicians at
in young throwers. Parents and coaches have legitimate Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine recommend young pitchers
questions/concerns in keeping their kids safe. “Shoulder begin to throw curve and breaking pitches once they are close to
and elbow growth plate injuries have become common skeletal maturity; meanwhile focusing on proper mechanics and
as young athletes are playing in leagues with high game control in the younger years.
volumes. These players often don't receive enough recovery time 7TH INNING: Player substitution. A pitcher should be
prior to their next outing and may subsequently play through pain. removed from the mound once they reach their allotted pitch
Adolescent growth plates are vulnerable to stress up through the later count. If they continue to play in the game, they should not be
teen years,” said Dr. Richard Rodenberg, Sports Medicine Physician placed at 3rd base where long hard throws are required on an
at Nationwide Children's Hospital. “Injuries to these areas are often already fatigued arm. Pitchers should never be catchers on the
season ending due to the amount of healing that needs to take same team—this combination results in too many throws and
place,” he added. increases the risk of injury. The safest place is moving to 2nd or
Below are some of the unique challenges faced by young throwers 1st base where the throws are shorter and less stress is placed on
with some guidelines for success. So let's play ball! the arm.
1ST INNING: Season preparation! To reduce the
risk of injury, conditioning drills should be initiated MAXIMUM PITCHING LIMITS
prior to the start of the first practice session.
AGE PER DAY PER WEEK PER SEASON PER YEAR
Concentrate on lower body flexibility, upper body
and core strengthening and cardiovascular drills. 10 & Under 50 75 1,000 2,000
This combination will help ensure that the player’s 11-12 75 100 1,000 3,000
body is ready to accept the demands of the season. 13-14 75 125 1,000 3,000
2ND INNING: Time to stretch! Light conditioning 15-16 95 * * *
at the beginning of practice warms muscles making 17-18 105 * * *
them easier to stretch. Stretching should include the *There is no evidence to support pitching limits for these specific categories and age groups. Remember to stop
throwing if fatigue, pain, or injury.
upper and lower body as well as
the hips and back. Inflexibility can
decrease force production and DAYS OF REST REQUIRED WITH PITCHES THROWN IN A DAY
speed, and can limit the power of AGE 0 DAYS REST 1 DAY REST 2 DAYS REST 3 DAYS REST 4 DAYS REST
the throw.
14 & Under 1-20 21-35 36-50 51-65 66+
3RD INNING: Mechanics, 15-18 1-30 31-45 46-60 61-75 76+
mechanics, mechanics! Young Information and Guidelines adapted from the following: 1. Medical Safety Advisory Committee Special Report, USA Baseball , 2006;
®

pitchers are often more concerned 2. Little League Baseball & Softball, 2010; 3. Position Statement for Youth Baseball Pitchers, American Sports Medicine Institute, 2009
®

with how hard or fast they can

throw rather than their efficiency. Avoid using radar guns!
Throwing hard combined with poor, or inefficient, form almost
always predisposes injury.
4TH INNING: Put me in coach, I'm ready to play! Young
players incorrectly think that arm soreness is part of the game—a
badge of honor. Soreness can alter mechanics as they try to avoid
painful positions. Early intervention and activity modification can
decrease healing time and reduce the risk of more serious injury.
5TH INNING: Role of Pitch Counts? Pitch counts/limits are
used in order to reduce the amount of stress placed on a pitcher's
arm. These take into account both the age of the thrower and the
amount of rest needed between outings, as well as the maximum
number of pitches that should be thrown during the season and
throughout the year.
6TH INNING: What pitches are appropriate for young
throwers? A fastball should be the first pitch to be learned and,
8TH INNING: Knowing when to rest. The American Sports
Medicine Institute has recommendations for rest periods associated
with the relative amount of pitches thrown. They also advocate the
use of ice on a pitcher's shoulder and elbow after they throw for
20 minutes to reduce the inflammation associated with activity, and
speed recovery.
9TH INNING: Multiple leagues. Young baseball players that
compete on multiple teams may need increased recovery time.
They should consider pitching on one team and play a fielding
position on the other team. There should be no competitive pitching
for 3-4 months in a year cycle to ensure optimal recovery and allow
for normal growth processes. †
Richard Rodenberg, MD is a Sports Medicine Physician, and Travis
Gallagher, ATC is a Sports Medicine Athletic Trainer, with Nationwide
Children's Hospital.

www.dublinyouthsports.com 17
 Coaches Corner
Drills For Skills
The Spring sports season is finally upon us. For all the parents and parent-coaches
out there ... tips and drills that work, from some of Dublin’s coaching experts.
Golf
By: Larry Dornisch
Head Golf Professional
Muirfield Village Golf Club
The most fundamental skill for any
golfer is the golf swing, and the most
important concept you can convey to
a child is that the swing isn't about
picking up the club and hitting the ball.
Great golf teacher, John Jacob,
describes the golf swing as “two turns
and a swish.” The body turns to the
right on the backswing, “unturns” on
the forward swing, and swishes the
head of the club with the arms and
hands at the bottom.
Start kids out swinging with no ball,
to keep the focus on swinging rather
than on hitting the ball. Have the child
listen for the “swish”—the crisp sound
at the bottom when the accelerating
head grazes the grass. If the child
loses balance, he or she is swinging
too fast. Have them practice finding
the optimum speed—swinging as fast
as they can while maintaining balance.
Next, put a tee in the ground and
have the child swing to clip the tee.
Finally, have them progress to include
a ball, but continue to use the tee as
a reminder that they are still trying to
clip the tee rather than hit the ball.
You want to keep it really simple at
first so the child is primed for success.
As with most sports, young golfers
should rote practice core mechanics
so they develop confidence in their
swing. To break the monotony and
further develop balance, I like to alter-
nate swing practice with basic athletic
skills—throwing or even skipping—
and have kids work their “off” arm to
maintain symmetry in the swing.
If you found these tips useful, be sure to visit The Clubhouse at www.dublinyouthsports.com.
Both Larry Dornish and Tim Saunders will be available to field your coaching questions.
18 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
Softball
By: Sarah Looker
Head Varsity Softball Coach
Dublin Jerome HS
In softball, one of the most impor-
tant offensive weapons is an effective
bunt. There are two common bunting
techniques. The first technique is
squaring your entire body and feet
to the pitcher. The second is pivoting
your feet to put yourself in a running-
like position while angling the body
towards 1st base. To grip the bat, the
bottom hand should be next to the
bat knob and the top hand should be
“pinching” the bat where it becomes
a full barrel. The bat should be held
at a slight upward angle and at the
same level as the player’s nose, this
helps the bunter stay on the top half
of the ball. Due to the layout of the
field; the bunter should position them-
selves in the front 1/3 of the batter's
box to have a better chance of the
ball staying in fair territory.
Dry Bunting Drill:
This drill has three different
variations and can be used for all
ages/hitters improving hand-eye
coordination.
1. Have the bunter in their preferred
bunting technique position with no
bat. Coach does a light front toss
to them. Barehanded, the bunter
must use their top hand to catch
the ball.
2. Have the bunter transition from
their regular batting position into
their bunting technique.
3. Have the bunter go through the
bunting process, catch and drop
the ball, then run to 1st base.
Lacrosse
By: Mike James
Director Of LAX (Gr. 1-6)
Dublin Youth Athletics
Lacrosse catching is a fundamental,
stick-handling skill that takes regular
practice and needs to be mastered
early. The best lacrosse programs
spend a lot of time with repetitive
throw and catch drills.
Catching a lacrosse ball takes con-
centration and eye-hand coordination.
The player needs to focus on the ball
as it comes in, and watch it all the way
into the pocket. Once the ball hits the
net, there has to be give in the stick so
that the ball doesn't bounce out when
it hits the net. To do this you have to
relax your grip on the stick and allow it
to move in the direction of the ball, so
that you cushion the blow of the ball
into the pocket and catch it softly.
Imagine trying to catch a water balloon
or an egg without it breaking. In fact,
you can use small water balloons to
teach this by gently tossing them into
the kids nets and telling them not to let
them break.
For the first week or two, catching
can be taught in a stationary set-up, in
the “ready position” with the stick held
at the ear—an area known as “the
box”—facing the passer. If catching
with the right hand, the player’s left foot
should be forward and visa versa.
Unless you are dealing with very young
players, I’d recommend quickly pro-
gressing the stationary drill to catching
while in motion. Stationary targets get
checked, so motion allows players to
adjust to the ball as it flies in, and to
avoid their opponents.
 Baseball
By: Tim Saunders
Head Varsity Baseball Coach
Dublin Coffman HS
Importance Of Confidence
Building confidence comes from suc-
cess. Building success comes from
repetition. Drills lasting no more than 3-5
minutes maintain the attention span and
allow players to focus before becoming
mentally tired. Instruct players when they
make mistakes and praise them when
they execute correctly.
Note: “Mistakes” are when players do
not use good form, rather than when they
do not achieve the desired results.
Throwing/Catching Drills
Throwing and catching is all about repeti-
tion so muscles can be trained. Teach
kids the right way from day one but let
them develop at their own pace. The
learning process will eventually take hold.
FORM:
1. Point the throwing shoulder toward
the target.
2. Step with the glove foot toward the
target.
3. Throw with 4 right angles: 90 degrees
in arm pit; 90 degrees in the elbow;
90 degrees in the wrist with fingers
behind the ball; 90 degrees in the
wrist at release point. By using 4 right
angles you are throwing over the top
and putting less stress on the arm.
DRILLS:
1. Use tennis balls with no glove from
20-30 feet. This removes the fear
factor and teaches the players to
use their hands.
2. Throw back and forth with glove
and baseball. Tell players to stay in
front of the ball. Turn a potentially
bad throw into a good throw by
moving the feet.
3. Hot Potato Drill: Stand 20 feet apart
and try to move the feet, point
shoulder, step, to target and throw
back as fast as you can.
Key: Players are not throwing hard
but they are throwing quick.
Finally ... remember, playing in the back
yard is just as important as, if not more
important than, an organized practice.

www.dublinyouthsports.com 19
 Concussion Series: Part 2
Optimal Recovery:
Role of The Parent
At the International Symposium on Concussion in Sport, Zurich 2008, a panel
of experts concurred on a quantum shift in the treatment of concussion.
I
t is a heated topic of discussion on sports talk
radio, a feature in national news magazines, and
an issue debated among parents in the bleachers
at youth sporting events: Concussion in
competitive sports. From Little League to the
majors, there is growing awareness and concern
about concussion in sport, and the treatment,
recovery protocol and long-term effect of head injuries
among today's active youth. For the sake of our
children's health and safety, it is a subject worthy of
continued discussion—and greater understanding.
Concussion Diagnostics
Diagnosing a concussion, and the level of its severity, can
be like hitting a moving target-challenging, at best. That's
because there are few prognostic indicators that apply to
all cases, according to Dr. Logan, MD, FAAP, Medical
Director, OSU Sports Medicine Concussion Program.
20 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
BY MAUREEN MOXLEY
“Parents know their child's everyday temperament,
habits and academic aptitude,” Logan said, so they are
best suited to identify any mental irregularities or changes
from the norm. If your child has sustained a head injury,
even if it seems minor at the time, you should watch for
symptoms of a concussion. Although many of these
symptoms can be associated with other illnesses or
situations, in the context of head trauma, special
attention is required. “When your daughter seems to
be more irritable ... if she becomes withdrawn from
friends, is extremely drowsy during the day, or her grades
take a sudden dive-behavior or activity that is clearly
uncharacteristic—these could be warning signs of
concussion,” she said.
Your Child Has A Concussion ... Now What?
Once a parent establishes that his/her child is
demonstrating symptoms, the first step is to consult

a concussion specialist. Assuming
there are no immediate risk factors
associated with a skull fracture or
bleeding—which a doctor evaluates
through history and thorough exami-
nation—then a recovery/treatment
plan can be outlined, Logan said.
Generally, this would include limited
physical activity; mental and physical
rest; no cognitive stressors including
accommodations for school work
and studies; no video games; and
frequent follow-up visits with the
physician. Once the doctor can verify
the brain is functioning properly, the
child can then, and only then, resume
normal activity.
It is important that parents under-
stand what to expect when dealing
with concussion in children, Logan
cautioned. “It takes longer for a
child to recover from a concussion
than for an adult, because the young
brain is still growing and changing.
The good news though, is that
children almost always fully recover
from concussion.” The unpredictable
nature of the recovery phase can be
difficult for parents to manage due
to the inconsistency, and fear of the
unknown. Parents can, however, be
prepared for the experience by being
provided with the following: a con-
cise overview of concussion-related
symptoms, realistic expectations for
the recovery process, support
resources such as case reviews and
support group contact information,
and expert medical guidance in
monitoring their child's recovery.
That recovery process is typically
non-linear; with no absolute protocol
or recovery cycle that applies uni-
versally. For example, a child who
has sustained multiple concussions
might exhibit inconsistent recovery
patterns, even if the injuries present
as similar in scope and severity. It
is important to note that kids who
have suffered multiple head injuries
will likely require extended time to
fully recover.
“Each case is different based on
the extent of injury and the child's
pre-existing conditions,” she
explained. “Neuro-psychological
disorders and conditions affect the
recovery process, as well.” Children
who have ADHD, depression,
seizure or anxiety disorder, chronic
headaches—all of these conditions
affect everyday brain function.
These issues make it difficult to
know when and if the brain has fully
recovered to its normal state.”
The general criteria for that clean
bill of health and return to play is
when the child is symptom-free at
rest and experiences no symptoms
during mental or physical exertion.
That estimated recovery period
takes about 7-10 days for a
college-aged athlete; two weeks
for a junior or senior in high
school; 2-3 weeks in athletes in
middle school through 10th grade;
and 3-4 weeks for elementary-
school aged children. “This time-
frame may not be true for every
person. However, these are the best
estimates that we have to date,”
Logan said.
How We Treat
Concussion In Sports
At the International Symposium on
Concussion in Sport, Zurich 2008,
the consensus panel concurred that
the diagnosis of acute concussion
usually involves the assessment of
a range of domains including clinical
symptoms, physical signs, behavior,
balance, sleep and cognition. It also
detailed that concussion history is
an important part of the evaluation
both in the injured athlete and when
conducting a pre-participation
examination for return to play.
“These findings established base-
lines that will continue to become
more conservative as we learn more
about concussion and its long-term
risk,” Logan said.
In addition to these indicators,
the Zurich panel also brought to the
forefront of discussion the notion of
global rest—both physical and
mental—thereby reducing metabolic
Well Being
demand on the brain to allow a
quicker and more complete recovery.
This represented a quantum shift in
the treatment of concussion.
Despite these widely-accepted
guidelines, parents may find that
they receive inconsistent recovery
and return-to-play recommendations
from multiple sources, including
pediatricians, ER doctors and
concussion specialists. “The best
advice is to seek professional
medical attention immediately,” said
Logan. And from there, parents must
be vigilant in monitoring that recovery
process and sticking to a strict regi-
men of mental and physical rest.
“Rest”, however, defies the
unspoken rules of the hard-headed
sports culture that our kids experi-
ence in America today: The take-
one-for-the-team mentality. This is
an issue that has taken center stage
amid the release of recent NFL injury
reports. Parents today face the chal-
lenge of working with their children
to encourage full disclosure of
symptoms and injuries, while
respecting their child's competitive
spirit and will to play.
“There is an assumption that if
kids know that they exhibit symp-
toms of concussion, that they will
hide them,” Logan said. “But I
believe that kids are smarter than
we give them credit for ... when we
explain the criteria for return-to-play
recommendations along with the
potential dangers of ignoring those
symptoms, kids step up,” she said.
“As a culture, we need to support
our children and encourage them
to speak up and advocate on their
own behalf. At the end of day, we—
doctors, coaches, trainers, parents—
are all on the same page: No one
wants to see a child get hurt.” †
NEWS!
Learn more of recent legislation on
concussion education, and visit with
Dr. Logan in The Clubhouse at
www.dublinyouthsports.com
www.dublinyouthsports.com 21
 Psychology
Smooth Sailing This Season?
Pre-Season Preparation for Parents and Coaches
T
he start of the new athletic season for spring sports
is upon us. Pre-season conditioning for athletes has
long been underway, as it should have been for
coaches and parents. Pre-season preparation leads to
greater success during the season for everyone. A good
example of useful pre-season “conditioning” for coaches
and parents is the pre-season meeting. This meeting can
help set the tone for the season and can make the differ-
ence in both the win-loss column and the enjoyment and
growth of all involved.
WHY MEET?
Why have pre-season meetings? Effective pre-season
meetings manage and clarify expectations among mem-
bers of the entire TEAM—athletes, parents, and coaches.
With increased clarity comes less conflict and misunder-
standing. Valuable energy, formerly spent coping with
strife and dissension, can now be channeled into more
fun, more learning, and a more rewarding season overall.
And yes, better athletic performance as well. The less
stress and problems on a team, the more focus is then
placed on improving performance.
KEY AREAS
In constructing a successful pre-season meeting, there
are specific areas that should be addressed. Beyond
overall coaching philosophy and practical matters such
as organizing the time and location of practices; key
areas to address include:
Playing Time: This is a frequent area of conflict among
parents, coaches and athletes. To reduce this conflict,
coaches must communicate either the pertinent league rule
or how they define “playing time.” If competing to win is
the top priority, the team needs to know. If all athletes are
going to play consistently and equally, however, this
information needs to be shared as well. The goal is that
everyone knows what to expect and there are no surprises.
Appropriate Fan Behavior: Everyone needs to be reminded
of appropriate behavior in the stands. One important
22 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011
BY TODD KAYS
rule—let the coach do the coaching. Do not yell at the
coach during the games or instruct athletes to not follow
the coach. If there is a major issue, it can be addressed
off the field of play either after the game or between
games. Remember, as a parent, you are an important role
model for your child. Demonstrating respect for coaches,
referees and opposing team members is important if you
are to reasonably expect this from your child in future.
24-Rule: Sports create intense emotions; it's the negative
ones that create the problems on teams. To reduce prob-
lems, make sure that everyone agrees to wait 24 hours
before discussing negative emotions and situations. If
mutually agreed upon, this rule may be waived in certain
situations, but these interactions will likely be more pro-
ductive after waiting 24 hours for emotions to settle.
TEAM EFFORT
Finally, remember that although the coaching staff is
responsible for organizing the pre-season meeting,
parents and athletes must be just as engaged in it to get
maximum benefits. Parent emails to coaches before the
pre-season meeting, regarding questions they may have,
are always a good idea. The success of the season does
not simply depend on the coaches and athletes, but
rather to the overall teamwork and synergy of all mem-
bers of the TEAM. Do the work now and enjoy smooth
sailing all season long. †
Dr. Todd M. Kays
Dr. Todd M. Kays is a sport and performance psychologist who has
worked with Olympic to high-school-level athletes. He is adjunct
faculty and consultant to coaches and student-athletes at The Ohio
State University, as well as athletes and coaches from Major League
Soccer, Professional Hockey, the PGA, the LPGA and the ATP. He has
authored or co-authored 4 books and is a respected speaker across
the United States. Visit www.athleticmindinstitute.com for more information.
Dr. Kays is available in The Clubhouse at
www.dublinyouthsports.com to answer your
questions about this topic and many others.
 Events

The Memorial’s Clubhouse Kids

Have Fun Discovering Golf …

Just A “Short Drive” Away
very year, late spring brings

E warm weather and beautiful

blooms to Dublin, signaling the
season's most anticipated profes-
sional golf experience: the Memorial
Tournament presented by
Nationwide Insurance. Contributing
to the event's success is the enthu-
siastic support of the local commu-
nity, including the participation of
area youth. The Memorial's
Clubhouse Kids programming
reaches out to children, exposing
them to golf, educating them about
the lifelong sport—and about the
enduring values that golf instills in
those who play the game.
Junior-Sized Golf
Experiences Engage Kids Elementary Day is an exciting experiences relating to the material
The Memorial Tournament presented component of Junior Golf Day that teachers are covering in the class-
by Nationwide Insurance will be held engages around 500 students. “This room, incorporating a golf theme into
May 30 through June 5, 2011, at educational component utilizes the core subject matter such as math,
Muirfield Village Golf Club. On Memorial Tournament as a field trip science, and English in exciting new
Junior Golf Day, Wednesday, June enrichment experience that actually ways that resonate with kids.”
1st, children 18 and younger will be turns the event into a non-traditional Onsite at Muirfield, teachers
admitted free with a ticketed adult. learning environment,” said Heather assemble their classes in private
(Every other day during the Baxter, Director, Marketing & chalets that serve as home base
Tournament, kids 12 and younger Community Relations for the throughout the day-long program.
may enter at no charge, with a Memorial Tournament. “We work in Students receive tour-guide packets
paying adult.) advance to create lessons and that provide direction for the educa-

www.dublinyouthsports.com 23
24 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011

tional discovery process—and
then kids are free to explore. The
students meet for lunch and
participate in the related activities
and lessons. “The experience is fun
and educational—and it exposes
kids to the sport, helping to instill
a life-long appreciation for the
game of golf,” Baxter said.
The Junior Golf Clinic is a free,
family-friendly Memorial event that
annually attracts more than 500 kids
and adults to learn golf tips from
PGA TOUR professionals and enjoy
entertainment by a trick shot artist.
Held on June 1st at 5:30 p.m. at
Safari Golf Club across from the
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, this
community event has in the past
featured PGA TOUR professionals
such as Davis Love III, Billy
Andrade, Jason Gore, Brandt
Snedeker and Aaron Baddeley.
“Every year it proves to be an
exciting extension of the Memorial
Tournament,” Baxter said. “The pros
are happy to get involved and help
kids and their families gain a greater
understanding of the game.”
For Kids Only
“Other child-friendly components
include the annual coloring contest
which leads up to the Tournament,”
Baxter said. “The contest features
various age categories and winners
from each level are then invited to the
Junior Clinic to receive their awards.”
Treasure maps are available every
day during the Memorial Tournament.
The maps offer clues and hints to a
scavenger-hunt-type game that
leads kids on a discovery activity as
they navigate the course. “When
they have completed the game, kids
can bring their map to the Spectator
Relations area to enter to win a prize.”
New this year, parents and kids
alike will be pleased to see kids'
menu items offered. “This is just one
Events
of the additions that we've made to
create more opportunities for fami-
lies to experience the Tournament
together,” Baxter said. †
T he Memorial's Clubhouse
Kids membership and website
(www.memorialclubhousekids.com)
keeps kids engaged in golf beyond
the Memorial Tournament. The
website contains interactive pages
and links; a members-only Locker
Room full of interactive games, e-
cards, golf tips, etiquette, and more.
Children who become Clubhouse
Kids members receive lanyards,
backpacks, autograph markers,
Memorial Tournament golf balls,
flying discs, an annual birthday card
and invitations to the Junior Golf
Clinic. Membership comes with a
one-time $5 shipping and handling
charge and automatic annual mem-
bership renewals until age 16.
www.dublinyouthsports.com 25
 Giving Back

Sells Middle School

8th Grade Girls Basketball:
Teamwork When And Where It Counts
S
ells Middle School basketball coach Michael Blake
believes what happens off the court is as important
as what happens on it. This year, he provided the
8th grade girls team a valuable experience by asking them
to help out at a breakfast for the homeless.
All 12 girls on the Sells 8th grade team joined Blake
and assistant coach Shanley O'Neil over New Year’s to
work at the Sunday morning breakfast ministry for the
homeless sponsored by New Life Methodist Church on
Fifth Avenue. The ministry serves 150 to 200 people,
offering them a hot breakfast, access to a clothes closet,
medical care and a sack lunch.
“The girls worked in the kitchen, helped serve trays
and worked in the clothes closet. They were all fantastic at
striking up conversations with the people they were
serving, and at the end of the morning they also did
some crafts with the homeless children who were
there,” Blake said.
Blake, a coach for 13 years, said he had considered
doing a team volunteer project before, but this was the
first he arranged. “Here in Dublin, we are so fortunate,
and sometimes kids lose a little perspective. Some par-
ents refer to it as the 'Dublin bubble.' It was nice to help
the kids see that not everyone is as fortunate as we are.
We are blessed and have an obligation to help. For a lot 7th graders. Still, at the end-of-season banquet, many
of the girls, this was the first time they had been in such of the girls mentioned the volunteer outing as one of the
an environment. They got to see first-hand that not every season highlights.
kid has access to everything they do. Many situations in Blake hopes to repeat the project next year, perhaps
life are win-lose, this opportunity was purely win-win.” with the 7th and 8th grade teams working together,
On court, the Sells team has been hugely successful, because some things are more important than a good
completing a 17-1 season, after going undefeated as win-loss record. †

26 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011


High School …
M
any young athletes
dream of attending
a prestigious univer-
sity where they can
earn their degree
and play the sport they love on the
larger collegiate stage. While oppor-
tunities do exist for students to use
athletic prowess to fuel their aca-
demic aspirations; keeping athletic
ambitions, educational priorities and
life goals in perspective is crucial to
helping kids prepare for college,
and well beyond.
“The number-one goal for kids
today must be to get an education,
because, at the end of their college
experience, they will most likely
pursue a career in a field other than
professional athletics,” said Josh
Jackson, Regional Director of the
Central Ohio Market for College
Prospects of America, Inc., a market-
ing service for high school athletes.
While some view an athletic schol-
arship as the ultimate goal, others
view the equation through an entirely
different lens, explained Jackson. “For
kids intent on applying to an Ivy
League school, for example: When
these institutions are considering a list
of potential students—all with 4.3
GPAs—it helps to have the baseball
coach in there pleading your case,”
The
Academic
Combine
Athletic Scholarships
Viewed Through
A Different Lens
BY JOSH JACKSON
Jackson said. “In certain circum-
stances, the athletic ability backs up
the grades, not vice versa.”
This is where parental guidance and
support comes into play: It is impor-
tant for students to visit campuses
firsthand, meet coaches, and learn
about academic programs and
requirements. “Some kids watch a
game on TV and decide that's where
they want to go to school, without
ever stepping foot on campus,”
Jackson said. “The more exposure
kids have to different universities and
programs, the better frame of refer-
ence they'll have for making that
important decision.”
With Dublin high schools sending
as many as 95% of their graduates
off to college, opportunity abounds
if you understand the system. While
few will make careers as profes-
sional athletes, many more will have
the opportunity to access a won-
derful education by virtue of a com-
bination of academic and athletic
competency. Approximately 2,000
American colleges and universities
offer athletic scholarships or finan-
cial aid to gifted student athletes
from the United States and other
countries. “There are opportunities
available across 26 men's and
women's sports,” he noted.
Recruitment
A PROACTIVE APPROACH
BY THE STUDENT IS VITAL
Understanding what colleges are look-
ing for is the first step to maximizing
the recruiting process. Jackson shares
a list of the top five things that every
college seeks:
#1. Top academic performers
#2. Competitive athletic teams
#3. Performing artists
#4. Geographic diversity
#5. Ethnic/cultural diversity
“The more the student has to offer
in these categories, the better his or
her chance,” he explained. “Kids
today must be academically competi-
tive and well-rounded.” Jackson said.
“Know what you want and go after it
with resolve, always keeping the big
picture in perspective.” †
Next time … pointers for athletes
looking to improve their chances of
being recruited.
Josh Jackson
Regional Director
College Prospects of America
CPOA is a respected sports marketing
service for high school athletes.
Jackson was a member of The Ohio
State University 1997 Rose Bowl
Championship football team—a 3-year, starting place-
kicker for the Buckeyes, with 254 career points. For
more information, visit www.cpoa.com
www.dublinyouthsports.com 27
 Conditioning
LEARNING
TO TRAIN
W
hen deciding on a training
program for your child,
determining whether it is
designed for them to learn how to
train, or to train hard, is a key fac-
tor. Here are some program compo-
nents you should look out for:
1
It has to be fun. If it is not,
the kids will lose interest.
2
The activities, exercises, skills
should be at the appropriate
developmental level. If they are
too hard, the kids won't want to do it
… too easy and they will get bored.
3
The coach should be
controlled in his/her voice
commands. When necessary,
calm, respectful instruction should
be used. Harsh treatment of the
kids when they get out of control,
including yelling and screaming,
only serves to leave a negative
association with the activity.
4
Depending on age, session
duration of 30 to 60 minutes
is plenty. There should be
several activities to maintain the
kids' attention.
5
The true goal for young kids
is to teach them how to train,
not to hard-core train them.
They are not physically or mentally
ready for that. And, even if they
seem mentally ready for it, they will
burn out over time. Simply provide
them with the fundamentals and a
positive feeling towards training.
It is key for young kids to learn
the basics of movement, even if
they don't join a formal training pro-
gram. Coaches, parents, or athletes
themselves can practice proper
28 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS
BY LEE TAFT
skipping in all directions, lateral and
linear acceleration, and proper jump
and landing techniques. This can be
accomplished in 20-minute sessions
a few times a week. Sports are
extremely important for young kids
to play, for a multitude of reasons,
but to improve all-around fundamen-
tals of movement they must practice
athletic skills. Young kids will rarely
improve pure movement ability by
simply playing sports.
If your youngster is involved in a
variety of youth sports and wants to
train, that is great. However, the
training should be even more fun-
based and limited to one or two
days per week. Generalization of
activity is a key component in athletic
development. Playing multiple differ-
ent sports allows for greater athletic
potential and a diverse range of
interests and movement patterns to
develop, reducing the threat of burn
out and overuse injuries.
Kids need to learn to train when
they are under the age of 12, and
can develop the basic skills that will
help them when they do train harder
as older athletes. The atmosphere
should be fun and inviting so they
stick with it. As they develop a
stronger mental understanding
of hard work, they will be able to
handle more intense training. But
when they are young and maturing
mentally, they will simply relate the
hard difficult training to no fun. Keep
it fun and watch them enjoy it! †
Lee Taft
Lee is a Certified Strength and
Conditioning Specialist, a Sports
Performance Coach certified by USA
Weightlifting (SPC). He is also a certi-
fied Level 1 Track and Field Coach by
the USA Track & Field (USATF level I).
Over the past 20 years, Lee has worked with youth to
Olympic-level athletes. www.leetaft.com
March/April, 2011
Strength Training …
Growth Plate Concerns
By: Nate Fugitt
A common strength training concern for
parents is the issue of how it will affect their
child's growth plates? Misconceptions are
plentiful … the most common of which is
lifting weights will cause growth plate
injuries and stunt the child's growth.
What are growth plates and where are they
located? Growth plates are a region of carti-
lage located near the ends of the “mature”
bone. This region is weaker than the “mature
bone” and therefore is more susceptible to
injury. This susceptibility remains a concern
until the region is determined “closed,” or
until full height potential is reached.
Recent IYCA and NSCA research suggests
that the benefits of strength training far out-
weigh the potential risks. In addition, correct
application of resistance, recovery, technique,
and qualified supervision is effective in elimi-
nating growth-plate injuries. Most strength
training injuries incurred are primarily due to
poor program design and supervision, inap-
propriate work loads, and poor technique.
The qualifications and experience of your
child's trainer are key. Don't be afraid to
review credentials and ask questions. This is
what I would ask, and look for in a reply:
1.) Trainer qualifications and credentials?
Look for higher-level education,
including youth-oriented certifications
or degrees, as well as experience and a
track record of healthy youth athlete
clients.
2.) Programming: child versus adult
variations?
Once growth-plates have closed, work
load can vary tremendously. However,
open growth plates need to be worked
at very light work loads. Research
suggests 1-3 sets of 10-or-more repeti-
tions, with a light load, is considered
safe for youth.
3.) Most important of all, always run a
background check. Make sure the
trainer you choose can provide a safe
and positive environment for our child.
Don't make the mistake of listening to
hearsay. It's rarely accurate … and it's your
child's health at stake.
Nate Fugitt is a Certified Strength And
Conditioning Specialist with over 20 years of
experience in youth fitness, and owns Power
Performance Systems in Dublin.

Dublin Soccer League Hosts
The Kohl's American Cup
The Dublin Soccer League (DSL) will
host the Kohl's U.S. Youth Soccer American
Cup—the largest recreational soccer
tournament in the nation—in Dublin, Ohio,
June 11 & 12, 2011. “The Kohl's American
Cup is a natural fit for the Dublin Soccer
League,” said John Muir, DSL Executive
Director. “A tournament exclusively for recre-
ational players is a great opportunity to offer
another aspect of soccer to our league regis-
trants, as well as to recreational players in
Central Ohio and across the state.”
Participants will enjoy a minimum of
three games with 25-minute halves, with
participation certificates for all and awards
for finalists and champions.
Darree Fields Park is the host site with
registration open to U8 through U15 recre-
ational teams. Carded, competitive players
are not eligible. Team entry fees are $200.
Entry deadline is May 14th. Please visit
www.dublinsoccerleague.com/KohlsCup.html
for tournament rules, entry forms and more
information.
Nationwide Children's Hospital To Open
Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Center In Dublin
In order to meet growing sports
medicine and orthopedic service needs,
Nationwide Children's Hospital plans to
open a Sports Medicine and Orthopedic
Center in Dublin, Ohio by early 2012.
The center will be one of only a handful
of pediatric-focused sports medicine and
orthopedic centers in the country. The
two-story facility, planned at 25,000
square feet, will include a two-lane track,
basketball space, rehabilitation gym and a
performance center with state-of-the-art
exercise equipment. Services offered will
include sports and orthopedic physical
therapy, athletic training, radiology and
sports injury prevention instruction.
“The number of kids who participate in
youth sports has grown exponentially
over the last 10 years, which, in turn,
gives way to increased sport-related
injuries. This new facility will serve not
only as a place for treatment, but also as a
place for children and their families to
learn the best way to prevent injuries,”
said Thomas Pommering, DO, medical
Events
director of Sports Medicine at
Nationwide Children's Hospital and
clinical assistant professor of Pediatrics
and Family Medicine at The Ohio State
University College of Medicine.
“Injuries among young athletes are
entirely different from injuries among the
adult athlete population,” said Kevin
Klingele, MD, surgical director of Sports
Medicine, director of education and clini-
cal research in the Department of
Orthopedics at Nationwide Children's and
a clinical professor in the Department of
Orthopedic Surgery at The Ohio State
University College of Medicine. “Along-
side coaches, athletic trainers, primary
care physicians and parents, it is our
commitment to provide the best possible
treatment and injury prevention for young
active kids in our community.”
The new facility will be located on
Venture Drive across from the
Nationwide Children's Hospital Dublin
Close To HomeSM, located at 5675
Venture Drive, Dublin, Ohio 43017.
www.dublinyouthsports.com 29
 Athlete Profile
PURPLE REIGN: CONTINUED FROM PG. 16
that grueling training and the hours
that you put in, when you have this
group of guys that work hard and
come together as a team—and then
triumph—then it's all worth it.
DYS: Any adversity along the way?
Injuries?
ES: I broke my right wrist my soph-
omore year and then broke my left
wrist my junior season (both during
game play). Both of those were pretty
major setbacks in that going into my
senior season I didn't have a lot of
looks by colleges because I was out
for part of those seasons. I just
had to keep my head up and keep
working hard.
DYS: So then, what about your
college recruitment experience?
ES: I had a really good season my
senior year. Playing D-1 baseball
was my goal, but at that point I was
entertaining the idea of going to a
D-3 school (Walsh) to play football
and baseball. I played in a baseball
tournament that summer and my
coach made the connection with
Wes Carroll at Evansville.
DYS: What drew you to the Purple
Aces?
ES: Evansville has a great program
and a stellar reputation. I was excited,
and honored, to be a part of it all.
DYS: Talk about your relationship
with Coach Wes Carroll. How has he
impacted the way you play the
game?
ES: He is a young coach, he is very
knowledgeable—and is very engag-
ing. He played shortstop, so I can
relate to him easily. When I first met
Coach Carroll and we discussed the
style of baseball at Evansville—that
is exactly what I have played in
Dublin, so I knew it was a good fit.
DYS: Any advice for kids sitting in
the Little League dugout who want
to play in college someday?
ES: Keep practicing and work on
the little things. It's not as much
what you do, but how you go about
doing it that will turn heads.
DYS: Talk about the Freshman All-
America honors. Is it hard to put this
recognition into perspective when it
involves you, and not someone else
you happen to read about in the
sports section?
ES: Of course it's fun to have your
name out there. As a freshman, I
just wanted to come in and play the
game hard and get good results.
The rest just took care of itself.
DYS: What memories do your most
value/cherish from your time in
Dublin and at Scioto High School?
ES: In our senior class there were a
lot of guys who played against each
other on travel teams and then got
to be teammates on the high school
team. We got to be close. My junior
year on the baseball team, there
were no seniors, so our class got to
be seniors for two years in a row—
that was pretty cool.
DYS: Thanks Eric ... best of luck! †
Go to www.dublinyouthsports.com
to read more from the full
interview with Eric.

Registration Reminders!
Dublin Youth Athletics
Wiffleball Sign-Ups Are Now
Underway, With Golf and
Volleyball Registration in April.
Go To
www.dya.com
For Details
Dublin Football League
Sign-Ups Are Underway.
Go To
www.dublinfootball.org
To Register

Dublin Soccer League

Registration Opens May 1.
Go To
www.dublinsoccerleague.com
To Register

30 Dublin YOUTH SPORTS March/April, 2011

www.dublinyouthsports.com 31