Episode Overview: The wait is almost over! In this exciting episode, host Erin White sits down with her partner and co-founder BJ Johnson to discuss the 7-day countdown to the launch of the Around the Dirt platform, officially going live on November 1st. Erin and BJ will take you behind the scenes, sharing the platform's journey from idea to reality, what caused the delays, and why it's been worth the wait. They also highlight the amazing features that members of the bat and ball communities will absolutely love.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• The Development Journey: BJ talks about the history of Around the Dirt, the challenges that came with web development, and how those challenges made the platform even better.

• Why It Took So Long: BJ and Erin dive into the obstacles that led to the delayed launch and how the finalized platform is perfect for users.

• Features to Get Excited About:

  • National Calendar of Events: Your one-stop shop for fastpitch, baseball and slow pitch events happening across the country.

  • National Directories: Need to find teams, coaches, leagues or specialty instructors? Our directories have you covered!

  • Exclusive Travel Discounts: Thanks to the Around the Dirt Travel Agency, members get unbeatable rates on individual and team travel.

  • BSN Sports Partnership: Enjoy exclusive pricing on uniforms and equipment through our partnership with BSN Sports.

Why You Should Be Excited: With the official launch on November 1st, the countdown is on! Around the Dirt is set to unite and elevate all members of the bat and ball communities. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, you won’t want to miss out on what’s coming.

Stay Connected: Follow us on social media @‌AroundTheDirt for daily updates and sneak peeks leading up to the big day. Make sure to subscribe to our channels to be the first to join when we go live on November 1st.

Join the Conversation: Got questions or ideas for upcoming episodes? Let us know what you’re most excited about as we prepare to welcome the entire baseball and softball community to the Around the Dirt platform!

Get ready to play ball with Around the Dirt starting November 1st!

In this episode, Becky and Tree from Rise Above Pitching join the show. Known for producing top-tier pitchers in the Valley, they share their journey as coaches, their experiences working together, and their philosophies on developing young athletes. Their bond extends back to their high school days and collegiate years at the University of Arizona, where they formed a strong partnership, continuing into their careers as pitching coaches.

• Coaching Journey: Both Becky and Tree started their softball journeys in Arizona, playing club ball before moving on to high-level collegiate competition at the University of Arizona.

• Rise Above Pitching: They founded Rise Above Pitching, a business that has become a hub for producing elite pitchers. They emphasize consistency, individualized coaching, and a positive, supportive environment for their athletes. They take pride in developing pitchers from a young age and preparing them for the next level, whether that be high school, college, or beyond.

• Notable Successes: Becky and Tree have coached numerous pitchers who have gone on to play at prestigious colleges like Indiana, Arkansas, and Harvard. They take a long-term approach to athlete development, often coaching athletes for a decade or more. Both Becky and Tree value a holistic approach, focusing on building not only strong athletes but strong relationships with families and instilling values of teamwork and perseverance.

If you’re a pitcher in the Valley or looking to take your game to the next level, check out Rise Above Pitching for elite coaching and support. Their success is a testament to their dedication to developing well-rounded athletes who excel on and off the field.

Follow Rise Above Pitching on Facebook | Instagram

Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform and tune in to this inspiring episode to learn more about Becky and Tree’s journey, their coaching philosophies, and their tips for young athletes. Follow us for more episodes featuring top coaches and athletes who are making a difference in the sports world.

Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on Around The Dirt’s social media channels and share your thoughts with us!

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In this episode, Adrian Gomez from 212 Athlete joins the podcast to discuss arm care, injury prevention, and his unique approach to training athletes. Adrian shares insights from his career in both athletics and education, delving into how his experiences shape his coaching methods. The conversation also touches on the broader journey of being a coach and running a training business, including the challenges and successes along the way.

• Arm Care Focus: Adrian emphasizes the importance of proper arm care, sharing his expertise on using crossover symmetry bands for injury prevention and recovery. His program is designed to prevent athletes from needing surgery and helps those returning from surgery to regain strength.

• Data-Driven Approach: Adrian integrates data into his training, utilizing tools like pocket radar to track velocity and progress. He tailors his programs to meet the specific needs of athletes, breaking down throwing mechanics and identifying weaknesses, particularly focusing on rotational power and core strength.

• Challenges of Coaching: The episode dives into Adrian's personal journey, from his days as a college athlete to his transition into coaching. He discusses the difficulties of building a training business, including the need for organic connections, dealing with facility issues, and the importance of perseverance.

• Philosophy and Growth: Adrian shares valuable life lessons learned from his background, comparing athletic growth to planting seeds—emphasizing patience, hard work, and a long-term vision for success.

Coach Adrian Gomez provides a wealth of knowledge about arm care and athletic training, stressing the importance of a holistic approach that involves physical, mental, and emotional preparation. His journey from teaching to running a successful coaching business offers listeners insights into the dedication required to help athletes achieve their goals.

Follow 212 Athlete on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Youtube | Website

Don’t forget to subscribe to our Podcast on your favorite podcast streaming platform and tune in to this episode to hear Adrian Gomez share practical tips on arm care, the importance of data in training, and the mindset needed to succeed in the competitive world of baseball and softball.

Have thoughts about this episode? Join the conversation on Around The Dirt’s social media channels and share your thoughts with us!

Follow Around the Dirt on Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | Twitter