Tips to make the team

1.  Attend summer camps as well as fall and winter workouts.  Make sure the coaches know your name before tryouts begin.

2.  Look the part.  Wear baseball pants, jersey (always tucked in) and a hat worn correctly (not backwards or tilted sideways).  Take off all jewelry (earrings, necklaces, bracelets).  Be prepared everyday with all proper clothing.

3.  Wear a jersey from a team you played on.  Your name on the back of the jersey helps coaches know who you are.

4.  Always hustle.  Run between stations and always be working to get better.  No one ever became a ball player walking after the baseball. Get your uniform dirty and lay out or slide whenever possible.

5.  Volunteer to help out.  Be the first to help get equipment out and put it away.  We are looking for team players.

6.  Always pay attention and ask questions.  Try what your coaches instruct you to do.  With few exceptions, your parents do not know more than your coach.

7.  Respond with respect to the coaches and be coachable.  Use "yes sir" or "no sir" responses.  Never reply with "I know" when a coach gives you instruction.

8.  Be a great bunter.  Work hard at it.

9.  Have all paperwork done ahead of time.  Make sure your physical is submitted to the activities office before tryouts.

10.  Get good grades and be a leader in the classroom.  Good attitudes and grades translate onto the baseball field.  Take care of your academics first.

11.  Make sure you never miss an in-season workout.  If you have an emergency and can not attend practice, make sure to inform the coach.

12.  Never just go through the motions.  Whether it is stretching, throwing, or hitting stations, always give your best effort.

13.  Be realistic of your abilities and play within yourself while never giving up on the pursuit of the dream.

14.  Think positive thoughts and have good body language.  Pick up others around you and make the team better through your presence.

GAC South Champions - 2005 & 2009     District Champions - 2005

Contact Coach Gough at egough@fz.k12.mo.us

Fort Zumwalt West High School
1251 Turtle Creek Drive
O'Fallon, MO 63366
(636)379-0300