It is a well accepted fact that without science, this country would not be as great as it is. Science has proven to be the backbone for success in any country and in any field of endeavor. This includes sports but with one major caveat.
Countries can be successful in a particular sport when they have large numbers of participants in any one sport. When you have hundreds of thousands of players the laws of chance dictate that you will have some outstanding world-class performers. But it has also been proven that fewer numbers coupled with science can produce comparable or even better performances.
Yet, in the US, major league teams continually rely on hope and expectations rather than science to procure or develop an outstanding team. For example, in the last few weeks I have come across the following headlines and actions that have been taken by major league clubs.
After the initial preseason football game in which some first-string players participated, the headlines declared that the team’s “Hope for health” had come true. “The team’s health plan looks good”. Why? The players did not experience any injuries.
In baseball, the Nationals signed Strasburg to a record-breaking $15 million — 50% more than previously paid. He was signed for his value but he will not play this year and will be sent to the minor leagues to “build up his arm”. They expect great things from him.
The Padres signed their top draft picks, one for a franchise record $6.25 million. After pitching well in his first few games they now believe he may have maxed out for this year. But they are excited about having him and hope for great things in the future.
In the track and field world championships the Jamaican sprinters, especially the men, once again have dominated in the 100 and 200m. But yet, we have more track and field programs on the high school and collegiate levels than any other country. It should also be noted that the top track and field programs in the US are composed mainly of foreigners.
Because we do not have a scientifically based training program in the US we continue to hope that players or teams will do well. And we pay top dollar for athletes around the world on the hope that the player will do well. For example, MLB is now composed of over 50% foreign players. But with a little bit of science, this trend can be reversed.
To get started, players and coaches must admit that they need help in developing an athlete’s potential. Until then, we will continue doing the same thing, hoping for different results. Isn’t this a definition for insanity?
For information on developing an athlete’s potential read, Build a Better Athlete