|
Mike Grady originally piloted a velocity development program for the first time in 2014 with 8 players. The results where overwhelming as each player showed a significant increase in throwing velocity. Since then, the program has developed to a complete off-season training program. The VIP Program also emphasizes proper arm care and recovery techniques. Each player must complete an extensive, dynamic warm up before throwing or training begins. The combination of this individualized strength training, the development of a more efficient arm action, and improved overall throwing mechanics has resulted in significant increases not only throwing velocity, command, off-speed pitches, strength, and more. Over 100 pitchers from Ohio and surrounding states participate in the program each off-season.
|
|
|
VIP Strength and Performance Program Each VIP training session includes strength and performance training with our highly qualified performance training staff. All players complete baseline testing and the VIP coaches work with each player to develop their individualized strength and performance plan. The performance manual includes 16 weeks of workouts designed specially for throwing athletes. We work with all players to integrate their entire workout plan including high school and summer baseball team workouts. |
Improvement of Delivery Mechanics and Kinetic Sequencing
The purpose of the VIP is to help players achieve their maximum potential by creating a high intensity, researched-based training program that is individualized for each player. Areas of focus for each player are determined during the movement screening and throwing evaluation, which is completed before the program begins. "The velocity program not only helped increase my velocity, but it also helped me develop good throwing habits through proper arm care and recovery. I gained a ton of knowledge from this program, and it made me a better pitcher." Ty Drabick, RHP, Kent State University |
|
|
VIP Pitching Training and Development All players complete an individual movement screen and throwing assessment, and performance goals and objectives are determined for each athlete. The VIP throwing program includes an initial on-ramp phase to build throwing workload, the high intent velocity improvement phase, and the pitch design phase. During pitch design, pitchers throw live to catchers and hitters and coaches use Rapsodo to collect and analyze pitch data and performance and coaches focus on command, spin, pitch development, strategy, and more. |
|
Integration of Data, Technology, and Personalized Coaching Players have access to the latest pitching technology including Rapsodo and the Insight high-speed camera (see video to the right). The Rapsodo and camera technology allows coaches to more quickly identify both areas of strength and improvement. Players will pitch from the mound during the last 5 weeks of training. In addition, catchers will catch live pens and hitters will hit live off pitchers to simulate game-like situations. |
|