Ahead Of The Curve with Jonathan Gelnar

Doug Quotes We dont chase results. We chase the ability to move in balance and take an effortless swing. The human body is the strongest and most efficient in a position of balance. Curt Quotes The more information we can spread about good swings, the more our game is going to progress in the right direction and especially for the players which is what its all about. Timing is the most important thing, always Cody Atkinson We’ve got to learn to time for best fastball and adjust on the fly without taking panic swings. An athlete will self organize if you give them the right things to focus on. Contact Doug Latta [email protected] Curt Nelson [email protected] Website and Social Media sites for the show www.aotcpodcast.com Twitter @aotc_podcast Instagram aotc_podcast

Bio Rich Hofman - Legendary High School Baseball Coach Rich Hoffman is celebrated as one of the most accomplished high school baseball coaches in history, renowned for his unparalleled success and ability to develop future professional athletes. Across his storied career, Hoffman amassed 1,020 wins, 10 state championships, and two national titles, leaving an indelible mark on high school baseball. During his tenure at Westminster Christian in Miami, Hoffman built a powerhouse program that achieved three consecutive state championships in the 1990s, including a national titles in 1992 and 1996 as recognized by Baseball America. His teams also achieved an extraordinary 60-game winning streak, showcasing their dominance. His 1993 squad was particularly remarkable, producing four future Major League Baseball players, including Hall of Famer Alex Rodriguez and World Series champion Doug Mientkiewicz. After transitioning to Westminster Academy in Fort Lauderdale, Hoffman continued his winning ways, adding two more state titles and completing an unprecedented streak of five consecutive championships between the two schools. Hoffman’s influence extended far beyond wins and titles. Known for his emphasis on discipline, teamwork, and skill development, Hoffman created a legacy that resonates throughout the baseball community. Part 2 2:00- Pre Season Structure 14:00- In Season Structure 20:00 “stealing reps” 24:00- Quick Hitters

Bio Heath Autrey is the head baseball coach at Corsicana High School in Texas, where his leadership has propelled the Tigers to consistent success. With over 400 career victories, Coach Autrey emphasizes building "overachievers," instilling discipline, and fostering a winning mentality both on and off the field. Known for his strategic approach and player development skills, he has become a respected figure in Texas high school baseball. In addition to his on-field success, Coach Autrey actively engages with the baseball community through clinics and podcasts, sharing his insights on the game and coaching philosophies. Part 2 02:00 - Pre Season Focus: 10:00 - Offensive Mindset 15:00 - Scrimmages / Tournament Season 25:00 - Quick Hitters

Bio: Joe Sato - Head Coach, Bingham High School (UT) Joe Sato is the head coach of the Bingham High School baseball team, where he has been instrumental in developing a winning culture for over several decades. He is not only an alum of Bingham but has been coaching there since 1975. Under his leadership, the team has secured three state championships and consistently ranked among the top teams in the state. Known for his innovative coaching techniques, Joe emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and sportsmanship, creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive both on and off the field. His dedication to the sport has earned him several accolades, including multiple "Coach of the Year" awards in Utah. He has has been inducted into the National High School Baseball Coaches Association's Hall of Fame. In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Joe actively engages in community service initiatives, promoting the importance of giving back and supporting local youth programs. His dedication to the sport and his players makes him a respected leader in the local sports community. Contact Information: binghamathletics.com Part 2 02:00- Pre Season Focus 16:00- Efficient In Season Practices and favorite drills 30:00- Quick Hitters

Bio: Robbie Britt- Head Baseball Coach, Eastern Michigan Robbie joined Eastern Michigan University as head baseball coach in 2023, bringing a legacy of success from his tenure at the University of Charleston. With a career winning percentage of .722, Britt is known for transforming teams into competitive powerhouses, both athletically and academically. At Charleston, his teams clinched multiple conference championships, three NCAA appearances, and a historic 43-12 record in 2023. His commitment to excellence extends off the field; under Britt's leadership, his players achieved eight consecutive semesters with a GPA above 3.0 and dedicated over 4,000 hours to community service. Now at EMU, We talk through how Robbie continues to foster a competitive and supportive culture while preparing his players for success both on and off the field. Here is Robbie Britt! For further information about Coach Britt's career and his accomplishments, visit EMU Athletic Contact Information: [email protected] Part 2 2:00- “skill work segment 2 and 3” 6:00- Pre Season Focuses 13:00- Scouting and Game planning 18:30- Game like practice design 25:00- Quick hitters

Bio: Todd Fitz-Gerald is the head baseball coach at Stoneman Douglas High School, where he has led the Eagles to multiple Florida state championships, including titles in 2016, 2021, and 2022. Under his leadership, the program has become a national powerhouse, known for producing top-tier talent, with several players advancing to college baseball and the MLB draft. Fitz-Gerald has over 20 years of coaching experience, previously guiding American Heritage to a state title before joining Stoneman Douglas. His coaching philosophy centers on discipline, teamwork, and developing players both on and off the field. In addition to his on-field success, Fitz-Gerald’s resilience and leadership were critical in guiding the team through the aftermath of the tragic events of 2018, uniting the community through the sport of baseball. Contact: Email: [email protected] Website: www.stonemandouglasbaseball.com 01:00 Pre Season structure 05:00- Player meetings 08:00- how to efficiently conduct practice in season Daily routines for practice Pre game Routines 17:00- Pregame routines and Drill sets 24:00 Quick Hitters

Bio: Mark "Pudge" Gjormand has been the head coach of the James Madison High School baseball team since 1995, he is starting his his 30th season in 2024 and marking his 38th year in high school coaching. Under his leadership, the Warhawks have become a dominant force, winning 14 Liberty Conference titles, 2 Concorde Conference titles, 4 regional championships, and 3 Virginia state titles. His success and dedication to the game earned him a spot in the BCA Hall of Fame in 2021, the first Virginia high school coach to receive this honor. Gjormand has also served on the executive committee of the BCA, becoming president in 2010-2011. He continues to be an influential figure in high school baseball, contributing to the national rankings committee and will be speaking at the ABCA in January. "In Part 2 We discuss how he prepares his team during the preseason, his approach to in-season drills and development, and the role of player meetings in building strong team dynamics and individual growth. Gjormand shares his strategies for keeping players sharp throughout the season and the importance of open communication with his athletes." Time Stamps – Part 2: 1:00 – Preseason Preparation How Gjormand prepares his team before the season starts, focusing on conditioning, strategy, and mental readiness. 11:00 – In-Season Drills/Development An exploration of in-season drills that keep players sharp and game-ready, ensuring they continue to develop throughout the year. 30:00 – Player Meetings and Conversations Gjormand discusses the importance of player meetings, covering the approach he takes to communicate effectively with athletes, address concerns, and foster team cohesion. 45:00 – Quick Hitters

Bio Brian Kitamura has led the Whitman College Baseball program through one of its most successful eras in school history. Entering his 10th season as head coach and 15th year with the program, he has turned Whitman into a perennial contender. In 2024, Kitamura guided Whitman to its first Northwest Conference regular-season title since 1952, earning a 26-17 overall record and 16-8 in conference play. His leadership was recognized with the 2024 Northwest Conference Coach of the Year award. Since taking over, Kitamura has led Whitman to the Northwest Conference Tournament four times in five seasons in 2019, the team won its first-ever NWC Tournament and earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament, facing top-ranked Chapman University in a thrilling series. Under his leadership, the program has also made strides off the field. Kitamura helped secure major upgrades to Borleske Stadium, including a new clubhouse and indoor training facility. His commitment to player development has seen many athletes continue their careers at the NCAA Division I level while excelling academically, with Whitman teams consistently maintaining a GPA above 3.0. Part 2 Intro: "In Part 2, Brian Kitamura takes us deeper into the day-to-day strategies behind Whitman’s success. He walks us through preseason preparation, the in-season drills that help his players stay sharp, and the importance of holding player meetings to foster both individual and team growth. Get an inside look at how Kitamura keeps his team performing at the highest level year-round." Contact Information: Email: [email protected] Phone: (509) 522-4438 Part 2: Time Stamps 2:00 - Player Meetings Discussion on the importance of regular meetings with players for communication and development. 5:00 - January Plans Overview of strategies and goals for the upcoming month and how they align with the season's objectives. 14:00 - In-Season Practice Advice Tips and best practices for managing practices during the season to maximize player performance and team cohesion. 20:00 - Quick Hitters

Bio Career record of 927-549-6 over 29 seasons Four FCSAA state championships (1997, 1998, 2022, 2023) One NJCAA National Championship - 2023 Four-time FCSAA Coach of the Year Eight-time Mid-Florida Conference Coach of the Year Head coach Marty Smith enters his 30th year for the Patriots and second year as the Manager of Athletics for the College of Central Florida. In 2023 Smith became one of only two active coaches in the state to reach 900 wins in the FCSAA. Smith led the Patriots to the 2023 NJCAA Division 1 National Championship with a school record 56-7 mark in 2023, with the Pats shattering many records including wins and home runs in a season (119). Smith led the program to its second consecutive Mid-Florida Conference Championship and second consecutive FCSAA State and South-Atlantic District Championship. Smith's 2023 squad garnered four 1st Team All-State selections and Two 2nd Team All-State selections. The 2023 Patriot team produced One 1st Team All-American (John Marant), One 2nd Team All-American selection (Edwin Toribio) and one Honorable Mention All-American (Cam Schuelke). The 2023 Patriot National Championship Team saw all 10 graduating Patriots move on to NCAA Division 1 In 2017, Smith had the highest draft pick come out of his program to-date in RHP Nate Pearson, who was selected 28th overall (Rd. 1) by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 2017 MLB Draft. Pearson, Rawlings JUCO National Pitcher of the Year, and a Golden Spikes Award finalist, was the second highest JUCO player drafted in 2017. Email: [email protected] Time Stamps Part 2 02:00- Pre Season and Ramping Up 07:00- Balancing Development and Winning 13:00- Player Meetings 18:00- Game planning and Pregame Routines 27:00- quick hitters

Bio Chris Turco is the Head Baseball Coach at Pope High School, where he has led the Greyhounds to the state championship in each of his three years at the helm, winning the title in 2022 and finishing as runner-up in 2023 and 2024. Under his leadership, Pope has continued its legacy of excellence, competing for the state championship 7 of the last 8 full seasons and advancing to the Final 4 for 9 consecutive years. Turco’s success extends beyond baseball, having led his softball teams to three straight titles in softball (2018, 2019, 2020). Known for his dedication to player development and building a culture of winning, Coach Turco is committed to preparing athletes for success on the field and in life. Part 2 02:00- tryouts in January 04:00- practice design 12:30- favorite drill sets and competitions 18:00- quick hitters