Grady's V.I.P -Program Info
Pitchers in grades 9-12 are eligible for the VIP program.
Grady's VIP Velocity and Strength Training Class Information and Overview (for pitchers in grades 9-12)
This comprehensive throwing and strength program is designed to give pitchers the opportunity to receive specialized training that aims to improve all areas of pitching. Players have the option to take those gains to the mound and pitch against live hitters (also using Rapsodo) during the last 5 weeks of training. Classes will increase core strength, lower-half explosiveness, and arm strength using research-based, age appropriate, and measurable training methods. Join the largest and longest running (9th year) off-season pitching training program in Ohio.
Grady's VIP Program Details
Training runs from late October-mid February at Velocity Sports-Canal Fulton. Players may train once or twice per week. No training will be held during the week of Christmas.
This program is our most comprehensive training program ever offered and it is for the athlete who will dedicate his entire off-season to improving his pitching skills, mobility, strength, and overall knowledge of pitching development.
All VIP athletes will undergo FMS (Functional Movement Screen) performed by Dr. Scott Bailey, DPT, FAAOMPT or Dr. Matt Noel, DPT and a complete throwing analysis with a VIP pitching coach. Evaluations and screenings run from June-October.
Highly customized program. Pitchers will use the data and coaches recommendations made during the movement and throwing analysis for a better focus during the training program.
Each player receives a Google Drive account for video and reports, their own Rapsodo account, and a 70+ page training manual containing both throwing and strength workouts to be done throughout the program.
Athletes will integrate the latest technology into training including Rapsodo 3.0 allowing players and coaches to see each pitch’s velocity, movement, and spin. This technology enhances player’s ability to improve and design new pitches.
VIP Program Breakdown
Initial Evaluation Phase
All returning and new VIP athletes will complete and initial evaluation and functional movement screen (FMS) between June-September before training begins in late October. This is a very in-depth evaluation process and each athlete will work individually with a physical therapist and a VIP pitching coach to identify and correct risk factors, get evaluated for strength, stability, and range of motion, and complete a throwing and pitch design analysis. Two separate reports will be generated and videos will be shared with the athlete. The goal of this process is to develop each athlete’s individual training plan.
Weeks 1-5 Movement Phase:
The focus will be on movement, mechanics, stability, mobility, and learning the correct lifting form. Player's will work on areas described in the movement and throwing analysis and each player will focus on his individual improvement plan. Players will ramp-up the throwing volume and this will vary based on each player's workload during the summer and fall. Players will study video, learn plyoball drills, focus on arm care and recovery, and throw medicine balls to build strength.
Weeks 6-10 Velocity Phase:
Players who successfully complete the Movement Phase will advance to the Velocity Phase. Players who are still addressing movement or mechanical issues will remain in the movement phase. In this phase, players will ramp up their throwing intensity, begin long toss and/or pulldowns. Players will begin transitioning to the mound during this phase. Video will also be used to monitor movement and mechanical improvements.
*specific training protocols will vary by player. This will be discussed during the summer/fall throwing and movement evaluation and screening. For example, the throwing plan for an 18-year-old D1 commit will be very different than a 14-year-old player who is in his first year of the program.
Weeks 11-15 Pitch Design Phase:
Players will transition fully to the mound and will focus on specific pitching skills. Players will pitch live using the Rapsodo pitch design system. Throwing sessions will be charted and players will review each session with a VIP pitching instructor. Catchers will catch bullpens and live hitters will be added towards the end of this phase. Players will focus on command, off-speed pitches, pitch selection and execution, pitch calling, and more.
Custom Scheduling:
Beginning October 1st, all players will be able to self schedule their training times and days. This will allow players to schedule around other commitments like high school lifting, summer ball practices, and other commitments. Players may also change class times up to 48 hours prior to the class.
Dates and Times:
Classes will be held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturday mornings, and Sunday evenings.
Training Info:
Our experienced and highly trained coaching staff will oversee the throwing portion of the program and one coach will work with the players in the training area. Players are supervised by our coaches at all times. Each player will participate in a series of pre and post strength and throwing tests designed to measure progress and performance.
Data Tracking:
We believe if you want to improve something, it must be measured and tracked. That is all players are required to a movement screen and a comprehensive throwing evaluation prior to the program starting. We will set up a Google Drive folder for each player (and parent) to store videos, training plans, and evaluations. Players will also receive a 30-page training manual which they will use to record data from each training session.
Cost:
$1,795 for training one day per week / $2,895 for training 2 days per week. Custom training options are available. Email mike@gradyspitchingschool.com for more information.