March 10, 2010
Make it different
Hi ALL,
I wanted to start this blog a little bit different this time. Since, we are now in spring and softball season is upon us; I thought I would take a moment to talk about 2 things that may easily help improve your game. Maybe you do them already, maybe you don't; all I know is that they have been a significant help for myself! So here you go:
1. Goals - Most of us have heard this in many different aspects and associations. How big are your goals? Did you write them down? Where is that piece of paper now? Growing up, I always had goals. They were big, little, and everywhere in between. Often times though, if we write down these goals, we often lose that piece of paper or maybe the dog ate it? So here's my challenge for you, are you ready? POST your goals somewhere you will see them daily to remind and motivate you: your locker, next to your bed, on the closet wall, the bathroom mirror wherever! Just make them visible to you daily!
2. Routine - It's the "superstitions", the things that make you, you on the field! Whatever, your routine is- be consistent with it. If you have ever seen me pitch either on t.v, or in real life you would notice that I do almost the exact same thing in between every pitch. It's true, I'm a creature of habit. Having a routine allows you to be comfortable, calm, and most importantly focused on what you are trying to do - whether it's striking someone our, or getting a base hit to start the inning. Once you have your routine, stick with it. But, don't worry, you can always tweak and change your routine too. It's no set in stone. It is what works for you, not anybody else. It is your softball style.
Okay, that's my spill for this time. Other than that, here's a quick update: We have new items in the shop- so check them out! I'm also back this season with Toyota and I'll be playing in the NPF this summer with the USSSA Pride, so if you haven't checked us out yet, make sure you do when you get the chance, and make sure you come say hello to me, I'll give a little wave if I can!
Bring It,
Monica
October 4, 2009
Bring It Clinic
Hi Everyone!
I have GREAT NEWS!!! I’m putting on my very own, “Bring IT” Clinic. It’s going to be Feb 6, 2010-- ya’ll have to come. We have a lot of exciting things planned, and specific skills for infielders, hitters, motivational chalk talk, and building confidence as females and as athletes. It will be a great day at the ball park~ learning the game we love!
Here are the main details:
Feb 6, 2010
9am-3pm (registration starts at 8am)
Individual and Team Rates available
Open to ages 7-18
No previous softball knowledege is required but it would be helpful
Pre registration is open now so make sure and sign up: CLICK HERE
You may be surprised by the title of the clinic; “Bring IT”. This is the theme, and I want you to think about it, it’s sort of my motto on the mound. I’ll have to explain it to you at the clinic, of course!
God Bless,
Monica
ps- Toyota came in second place at the tournament in Chiba, they gave us Sweet Potatoes as a gift the other team got rice. I think we made out with the sweet potatoes!
September 22, 2009
Back to Business
Okay, so I was on the phone with my younger sister Bina, who just started college this semester at Towson University, in Maryland. As she was babbling a long to me about her first practice games of the year (she plays 3rd/1st base), she called me out and said , “You know Mon, the whole point of a blog is to do it on a regular basis, you need to update more often!” Ouch. I guess the truth hurts, but she is right I have been neglecting my blog, I don’t have a good reason. I think oh I need to blog, but then I get preoccupied doing something else. So, here, I am taking Bina’s advice and I’m gonna try and be more consistent.
Let’s see, I’m back in Japan now. The second half of the season has been good so far. We have lost one game (ugh), we had plenty of opportunities to score but didn’t get it done, and then they scored on their one opportunity. It was a tough loss, but a good lesson learning game.
Since, I’ve been back, I made it to a professional baseball game. Natasha and I saw the Yokohoma Bay Bears play the Nagoya Dragons. It was a lot of fun, there was a band for each team that played non-stop during the game. The field was a dome, and enclosed built 3 levels high. Almost every fan had little bats that they banged together to the sound of the bands call. It was so interesting, compared to the Major League.
We have a tournament this weekend in Chiba, Japan. Were playing with a white ball, haven’t done that since I was in High School! (maybe middle school). Wish me luck!!!
July 22, 2009
World Cup Is Over
Hey Ya'll
Okay, the World Cup is over and what an event we had. Great support at all the games even when it was sticky hot! We played Australia in the final. I got my first big game start, 5inn and then Cat came in to close it out. Jennie Finch, Natasha Watley, LaurenLappin, Alissa Haber, and Ashley Hansen were all on FIRE at the plate. It was exciting to watch the speed of all the players, stealing bases beating bunts out, hit and runs everything. One thing that's evident is that this team is only going to become more and more fun to play with!!!
I was pumped to for the start in the final, maybe a little too pumped... but I guess it gives me even more motivation and learn from something to get better. That is one thing I would say is good advice to anyone, always try to take something that you have done, and get better. Find a way to get better. Even if it's one small thing, it can make a difference down the road.
I'm out with the USSSA Pride in Florida now for the time being. We have a series this week vs Philly. Our game on Sunday is at Disney Wide World of Sports so if your in the area come check it out!!! Take Care!
God Bless,
Monica
eph 5.1
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
www.monicaabbott.net
eph 5.1
July 10, 2009
The Canada Cup
Hi Everybody!!!
We are now going through the second round of pool play at the Canada Cup. It has been as exciting as ever to watch USA. The one thing this team is, IS FAST. It makes me want to act out my secret dreams of being a SLAPPER. (I have a feeling though that the pitching coach wouldn't like that...but I can dream can't I?!)
We've played Canada, Australia, and Venezuela. There are still familiar faces on all teams, but there's a lot of new people too. I love it, because I get observe and analyze them whether there on my team or not. :)
So far the teams been getting along great we've been enjoying the best canadian donuts in the world at the field, and my personal favorite the Kettle Korn. We have started to come up with new nicknames for the newbies and I'm sure time will only enhance the embarassment and inside jokes of those names! I'll keep you updated as we go with the nicknames as we head into the World Cup on our home soil--Oklaholma City, Ok. Looking forward to that!
Take Care, and I hope to see you on a field soon!
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
www.monicaabbott.net
eph 5.1
April 6, 2009
Spring = Softball Season
HI!
How is everyone? Spring is in the air...and we all know what that means- SOFTBALL SEASON! If you’ve been keeping up you know that I’m in Japan, playing in their professional league for team Toyota. We have started playing games and league starts soon. I can tell that all the games will be super competitive.
Since, I’ve been here, I have been trying to understand Japanese, but I must say it’s hard! I have figured out how to say nice pitch (eballu), nice spot (ecosis), and bad (dame). I don’t even know if I spelled the words right. Mostly, it’s a constant battle of trying to figure out what my teammates are asking or saying and they trying to do the same. A lot of the time we look at each other and just start laughing! Which is fun, you definitely can’t be afraid to laugh or make fun of yourself while your here because it is so different!
Softball, has been great. My team works really hard, and takes their time in making sure that everything is done the right way. I like being able to work with them and learn new ways to make me a better softball player. Some of the things they do are a challenge for me (like holding a hand stand for 30 seconds!), I couldn’t do that! I’m working on it though, hopefully by the end of the season I’ll have it down!
Right now, the Sakura- or Cherry Blossoms are in full swing! They are beautiful flowers that Japan is known for. When they bloom their pink and when they fall off the tree their white. Gorgeous!!
Hope to see you on a field soon!! Good luck in your season!!
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
ps -we have new items in the shop so check it out!
pss - 615-823-5013 will have weekly updates on games
February 2, 2009
Going to play in Japan
HI Everyone!!!
I have some surprising but great news-- I'm going over to Japan in March to play softball for 6 months! I'll be playing with a team called TMC-- or Toyota Motor Corporation. It's in Toyota City, or Aichi, Japan. The season is broken up into 3 month increments. So, I'll play during the spring, and during the fall. That means, hopefully, I'll be able to compete for team USA if they pick me again!
I'm excited to be going, but I'm also nervous. I don't know Japanese, and I'm not so sure about the food, and who knows if I'll end up liking it. But I do know that it will be a great experience and opportunity for me to continue my softball dreams. I'll definitely be keeping everyone updated on the games over there through my website so make sure you stay tuned! I'll let you know how my japanese lessons are going!
Oh, one last thing-- DON'T FORGET-- the store is now up and running. Just hit shop on the top bar and scroll down. Were adding new items and if your looking for something that you'd like that's not up there send me an email and I'll see what I can do. Pictures, posters, balls, etc etc!! Check it out!
Monica Abbott
www.monicaabbott.net
eph 5.1
December 2, 2008
My Online Store
Hey Everyone!!!
How is everything going? The Monica Abbott All Star Clinics have now come to a close, and I officially think they were a success! I hope to expand and make them even better next year so make sure you send me any comments, or concerns about them. And, don't worry if you were not able to make it out to the official clinics I still may be coming to your area or I will hope too! I wish I could get to every softball players hometown but I would probably have to clone myself. I don't know if that would be good. But, I was happy with how the clinics went, and had such an AWESOME time teaching everyone, and seeing the small improvements that hopefully (cross my fingers) everyone still Remembers! Thanks for beinga part of if and I hope to see you on the field again soon!
I need to share one new development with you- the STORE on this website is now up and running!!! Currently we have pictures and posters available for purchase. Just click store and then scroll down and you will be able to see the items. What is really exciting is this is just the very beginning of the store... so that means...to check back every now and then for more even better items! So get pumped! I am (in case you could not tell)! Good Luck to every one, be safe and look out for the next blog.
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
www.monicaabbott.net
eph 5.1
October 20, 2008
Tennis, Break and Clincis
Hey ya'll how's it going?
I'm doing pretty good. Enjoying my time off For Sure. I've started playing tennis some, and have after a month and a half off started throwing and working out again. It was hard for me not to workout so much, and even not throw. It was the FIRST time in my life that I've taken more than 2 1/2 weeks off of throwing. That's crazy! I didn't know what to do with myself! I have always been a person since I was little that loved to throw. I would spend hours upon hours at the field playing catch. I had always pitched a lot. But honestly, it was probably the best thing for my body, physically and mentally to get that rest. But I am so Glad to be throwing little by little again.
I've been doing a lot of clinics. We have already had major success with the Monica Abbott All-Star Clinic's in New York City, Atlanta, and Knoxville. We have really enjoyed your comments! The next stops for the clinics are Gulfport, MS -Nov 1, Salinas, CA -Nov. 15, and Virginia Beach- Nov. 22. It's been awesome to get out there and see how excited the youth of softball is. The excitement is contagious, and when the eyes light up your heart and soul is warmed. It's a great feeling.
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
www.monicaabbott.net
eph 5.1
September 10, 2008
Mixed Emotions
Hello Everyone,
I must admit that I have been, well, putting off writing this blog. This is because I wasn't sure what I was gonna say. I couldn't write it, I had to many mixed emotions after the tournament. I was at a loss a disbelief. I couldn't believe we had lost, or even more so that it was over. I had been visualizing these moments in my head since I was 12 years old, I'm 23 now. It's over, 8 months on the road with the best players in the world, traveling throughout the country seeing hundreds of little girls, no more late night talks with teammates, or playing silly jokes on each other. No more extra ground balls after practice no more getting pumped during practice because someone just made an awesome play. No more of the dirt/grass/sweat smell of the ball park with the distant smell of hamburgers and hot dogs on the burner. It was over. (At least for now)
Then I realized it was over over. Not only the Olympics and playing with 16 of my closest friends but softball in the Olympics was over. That was a realization in itself. A depression. I know I always knew it wasn't in for 2012, and I do honestly believe that the IOC will "smell the hot dogs" and vote softball back in. I know we are doing everything we can. Plus, after a showing in Beijing of amazing softball talent in all games there isn't any way I would vote no, but it's not in my hands. So, I'll leave it to the powers that be.
After many tears, unanswered questions and talking to teammates, friends and family I have come away with something that I would not trade for all the world. I'm an olympian, I experienced something many people do not get too. I walked away from the Olympics with a silver medal, and a personal best. When I think about how I played I can not say that I left anything on the field, that I have any regrets, that I could have done more or less. To me the game is the game you have to go out there everyday and let it all "hang out," you have to find a way to be SO in the Moment that nothing can disturb you; and when you find a way to do that, you have achieved success. You have a found a way to play with every piece of preparation possible, mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. I'm proud of my Silver Medal.
The other night I was watching tv, and A League of Their Own happened to come on. A quote from the movie struck me, "It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard everyone would do it. The HARD..... is what makes it GREAT." In an essence this is why we play, because it's a challenge at any moment you can break through and have an amazing day or just an average day. It's the endless pursuit of Amazing Perfection that drives us. It's what makes it Great.
I love this game.
Thankyou for your continued support. I hope to see you at a Monica Abbott softball clinic someday soon!
My next blog will be coming soon.
God Bless
Monica Abbott #14
August 9, 2008
Beijing Experiences
Hi All!
Where do I begin? So much has happened in the last 2 days. Let me start at opening ceremonies. I must say I will never forget the feeling of walking into that stadium, united as one country, one delegation. Right before we walked in, as I stood in the tunnel, the chant started...U-S-A, U-S-A, U-S-A. The entire team bellowed through the hall and as we stepped onto the track we were amazed, overwhelmed and so incredibly happy. I HAVE never smiled that much! Every time we saw "old glory" we went crazy. It was the most incredible feeling. We were so happy! Every person, from your everyday celebrity athletes to the person no has ever heard of, we all turned into a the little "KID" inside of us all! ...The flag was raised and then the torch was lit, by a man running side ways in the sky! It was crazy! But as the torch was lit, everyone knew what that meant- GAME ON!
Before opening ceremonies, we had such a great time. We got ready took lots of pictures, met bunches of people. The president spoke to the US delegation and then took pictures with each team. I took pictures with as many Tennessee Alumni as possible (Go Vols!). It was an amazing evening. So amazing that I don't even want to mention how incredibly HOT it was! We were sweating through our parade outfits! The other cool thing was seeing all the other countries parade outfits. I'm sure glad we had Ralph Lauren do the design, it was awesome! A very preppy, summer wedding type of feel, but came across great. Good Job!
Today we had practice. Just when I thought it couldn't get any better, President Bush showed up and talked to us, watched us warm up and take BP. ...and just when I thought that was great our team "prankster" Laura Berg got the president with her classic, "Chalk Handprint" on the back, full five fingers and everything! It was awesome. We were all cracking up, he didn't have a clue. But we eventually told him he "Got Berg-ied", but I think we could have let him walk around all day like that. It was perfectly executed! No bigger prank than on the president, I vote her to the Hall of Fame!
After practice, we had the official softball press conference. I'm enjoying every minute, and trying to reach my quota of meeting 2 new people each day. So far, so good...
Be sure to check out my YARDBARKER blog and call me on my SAYNOW number at (615) 823-5013!
God Bless
Monica Abbott #14
July 28, 2008
My Birthday!!! (+ TV Schedule released)
Hi All!
It's July 28th! Today's my birthday, and as my excitement level raises and I try to get everything done (so I won't stress!) I wanted to write to ya'll real quick before we leave for China. This weekend we go to San Jose, CA to go thru processing. Where were going to get all the clothing that you'll see on tv! Like the opening ceremony outfit (You should be seeing a cleaned up preppy version of Team USA) !! I'm stoked for that! I just got my 5 hour video camera battery so I can make sure to get plenty of footage.
After two days in processing we fly 15 hours to China. It's been really awesome to see everyone getting excited about the Olympics. It truly might be one of the best Athletic Endeavors in the world. The Softball team even has a double page picture spread in Sports Illustrated right now, so make sure you get it while it's hot!!
Okay, I'll be getting back to ya'll at the end of the week to let you know how processing went. Until then, I'll have to try to make SURE I don't forget anything, because there is no getting extra's once your in China!!!
God Bless,
Monica Abbott #14
+ Click here for the USA Television Schedule for 2008 Beijing Olympic Games
July 11, 2008
Olympics, Adidas & Yardbarker
HI Everyone!!
Well, were less than a month away from the Olympics now. We're on the last leg of the tour that started in FEB!!! The team has really come together. In this last section of the tour we are going to be able to come together even more, as we have a planned trip through Yellowstone, where we'll be staying in cabins! It's going to be like summer camp! We also are going to be visiting Mount Rushmore.
I recently got to visit the Adidas Campus in Portland, Oregon. Where I got to meet and visit with the people that are developing the softball cleetes. We talked about the future of the cleetes. It was a really good visit and I enjoyed being able to visit with them.
Some, personal news to look forward to and SIGN UP for is we have finalized the schedule for a clinic tour. And I hope that you will look for them in your area.
I also now have a yardbarker account that you can look me up on too: http://www.yardbarker.com/monicaabbott
Well, I got to get going, we have a game tonight! Less than 30 days left now. Lots of preparation left to go!!
Talk to you Soon!
God Bless,
# 14
May 20, 2008
Glove Series is here!
HEY ALL!!
I have great news!! The wait is Finally OVER! The anticipation has built up long enough and the Akadema Monica Abbott glove series is finally available for purchase!!!
I am so excited that it will be out to anyone who wants it now. It is a black glove with baby blue as an accent color. These are 2 of my favorite colors together. They also represent the colors from my past both Lady Vol Blue from college, and North Salinas High School blue from back in the day. The color combination is perfect. Not too much and not too little it still gives that instant x factor to the glove.
I hope that you all like it as much as I do!!!
Talk to you soon.
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
May 16, 2008
It's May already
Hey Everyone!
As I am traveling around the USA preparaing for the Beijing Games the anticapation and excitement it immensely growing. I can hardly believe it’s May already, and we have less than 90 DAYS till the OLYMPICS!
As the Olympics are getting closer I have finally come to realize the actual cost and travel to Beijing. Because, this is the last Olympics for softball, untill 2016 hopefully, I have brought it upon myself to help get my parents to the games to see me represent the USA. I wouldn’t want it any other way. It is very important for me to have them at the games. This is why I have taken this burden to think of some CREATIVE ways to help fund the travel expenses of the entire Beijing trip. To do this I was lucky enough to have a friend of mine, Jean Ashen, get in contact with an artist that has made a Limited Edition pictorial of me from a High School picture. Im really excited for how this has come out and the opportunity that it will entail. I’m hoping that this will evolve and really be able to support the financial necessities for this trip.
If you can help, please take the Initiative and sign up for one today, if your not able to get one please pass the word. Thank you for you everlasting support and generosity.
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
April 17, 2008
Back in Knoxville
Hey Everyone!
I'm fresh out of my Alma Mata tour stop at the University of Tennessee Lady Vols. It was an amazing experience. I got to play in the brand new stadium there, which is absolutely gorgeous!
As proud and happy as I was to be back in Knoxville, and play in front of the Lady Vol fans, part of my heart was breaking inside. I have felt so connected and honestly feel that I have invested myself so much into that program to get it where it is today, that standing across from the people that I know so well, was actually a little weird, I almost wanted to cry, BUT I would never ever trade playing for TEAM USA. I'm going to be able to use this experience in my preparations for Beijing, which is what this tour is all about.
So far the tour has been great. Some of the coolest things are: seeing long lines outside the stadiums when we drive up, kids after they get an autograph being really excited, people enjoying batting practice and of course the game itself.
Each day, we try and go out there trying to get better, and work on the tiniest of things (like which way your toes are pointing) that will make a big difference. We are also trying to continue to come together and bond for the upcoming battle.
Everyday is a new experience.
God Bless,
Monica Abbott
eph 5.1
March 12, 2008
BOUND 4 BEIJING
Hey Everyone!!
What a crazy last couple of weeks. Since you have last heard from me, we have started the Bound 4 Beijing Tour. With 64 cities on the stop, it is going to be very hectic at times, but definitely worth every minute of it! We get to play in cities all over the country, what more can we ask for?? It is pretty awesome. The fans are great. The tour, is so important, because it helps us prepare for the Olympics. Being able to get playing time together is invaluable. The final 15 roster is going to be named at the end of March.
Technically, right now, we are still in a tryout phase. We have 18 people on the team, but 3 will be named alternates.
We have had some off field excitement while playing in Florida. We were introduced at a New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Spring Training Game. At the Tampa Bay game, all 5 of the pitchers got to throw out a first pitch! Ironically, the Philadelphia Phillies, were the opponents during both games! They probably think we were following them... :)
Some other off field excitement is that Terrell Owens showed up at one of our games and took pictures with the team. It was really exciting to see him out there. Don’t tell anyone... but we asked totally asked for his autograph! It’s awesome to be able to see other athletes support us. Were all fans of athletics, we just so happen to be lucky enough to play a sport we LOVE. Well, I guess that’s all for now, I am going to try and get some extra rest. I’ll see you at the at the FIELD!!
God Bless,
Monica Abbott #14
eph 5.1
January 18, 2008
HI EVERYONE!!!
Welcome!! To my website!! I’m really excited to get this off the ground so that I can start to inform ya’ll (my fans) about my where-a-bouts, and what I’m up too.
There will be blogs, pictures and some videos. There will also be a schedule so you can see if I’ll be in your area soon, so you can come catch me in person!!
Again, I just wanted to say WELCOME, I hope you enjoy the site and I look forward to seeing you at the park in the future!
God Bless,
Monica Abbott |
