Saturday, June 27, 2015

A Coach's Perspective


For many living in the Florida Panhandle, youth sports are a way of life. Getting up on the weekends to play tournaments is what teams work toward. Spending weeknights practicing is just as natural as going to school or church. And countless hours are spent on the field building friendships and making memories. At the forefront of the experience are coaches, who dedicate their efforts to making sure kids learn not only the skills of the game, but skills of life as well.                                                     


Here in Panama City, one of the premier recreational leagues with a focus on youth sports is Southport Youth Baseball. Alemga Sports' owner Marie Walker conducted some on site interviews at Southport Baseball Park to understand more of what and why coaches do what they do.

Park co-director Jamie Pettis coaches the Southport Red Sox and 12U Allstars. He's a long time coach with intimate knowledge of the game and its values. Coach Pettis made a quick explanation of what has helped the park really succeed in recent years, and how quickly registration has grown. He closes the interview saying, "We just love being around kids and teaching them life and ball." Click the video to see the full interview.




Marie also interviewed park director Brock Poe who coaches the Southport Spartans and 8U Allstars. Also a seasoned coach, he knows how to succeed both on and off the field.
When asked what it takes to run a ballpark, he responded with, "Commitment. It takes a ton of commitment and a lot of good parents... We cant do what we do if we didn't have parents that were right here pushing us."
Coach Poe went on to explain how all coaches at the Southport park are nationally certified, and his program brings in some of  the best in the area.

Marie asked Coach Poe his take on people saying his job was a 'thankless one'. Coach Poe laughed lightly before saying, "It's a relentless job," but at the end of the day as a coach, kids leave you saying, "Wow. And I just want to be a part of that."
Marie also wanted the coach's view on one saying of the park- 'We're not raising boys, we're raising men.' Coach Poe grinned, "That's just what we do."

Even with all of this, we really wanted to know the answer to one question in particular; what motivates someone to not only be a coach, but to direct a program centered around helping kids become great at something. The coach didn't disappoint with his answer, "Seeing kids develop. It's a lot of fun to see and know that you had a part of something that could later on materialize into something great." Click the video below to watch the full interview.







Southport youth baseball is a phenomenal example of what youth sports mean to so many people. If you would like to register for the fast approaching fall season, just follow this link to their website! You can also check out their Facebook page here!


We've got you covered! | 2497 Highway 77, Panama City, Florida 32405 |850.215.5151 | Facebook.com/AlmegaSports


Saturday, April 25, 2015

Ordering Your Team Uniforms


Uniform orders can very quickly become a coach's worst nightmare. This blog is going to be dedicated to helping you  understand what to look for when ordering uniforms. Coach Mike took time to create a  check list of what to look for in your uniforms...

The things to consider are:
  1. Brand
  2. Quality
  3. Ability to size the team from top to bottom
  4. Initial availability
  5. Player add on availability
  6. Price
  7. Overall uniqueness of design

1. Brand
First is brand. Gone are the days of only having a few basic brands like Russell, Champion, and Nike to pick from. With options like Teamwork, Alleson Athletic, Augusta, A4 and High Five, There are many brands and options to compete with.
2. Quality
This can result in a drive for companies to have superior quality while not sacrificing a great price. When you take the U A logo or the Swoosh off of the uniform and get down to what really matters, the are endless options.

3. Ability to Size 
What size do you wear?  This is a great question. With Uniform specific companies such as Augusta Sportswear, Badger Sportswear, or Teamwork Athletic, it can be very easy to order a sizing kit to make sure you get it right the first time. Most all of these companies ship same day as order. With larger companies such as Adidas, Nike, or Under Armour, they may take up to 3 to 4 days to ship an order costing you valuable time in the ordering process.

4. Initial Availability
Another thing to consider is Initial availability. Many of the larger companies will intentionally sell out of product in a relatively quick manner. They have no desire to have any inventory left on the shelves after the start of a season.

5. Add on Players
The Add on player....With larger brand names such as Nike, Under Armour and Adidas, their primary focus is to sell a jersey that will in turn help sell there larger brand concept. it is not uncommon for these guys to discontinue a jersey line after one season. This leaves a coach or athletic director with the challenge of trying to find a similar product when it comes to adding a jersey. When you utilize uniform specific companies such as Augusta Sportswear, Badger Sportswear, or Teamwork Athletic, they have lines that will be available for 2 to 3 years at minimum. All they do is sell uniforms!

6. Price
One of the most important aspects of the uniform experience is PRICE. Quite simply, when you loose the swoosh or the UA then for some strange reason the price mysteriously lowers by 15% to 25%.


 
7. Uniqueness of Design
One of the last aspects to consider is uniqueness of the design. All to often I see teams that utilize uniforms from the BIG 3 Nike, Under Armour, and Adidas.. Often times other than a slight color variation it quickly becomes obvious that they are wearing the exact same designs. With smaller uniform specific companies, they are constantly competing for your business so a unique stock design is the best way to make that happen.


Bottom line is this, if you are interested in getting the most out of your uniform dollars then consider moving away from the shoe companies styles to the direction of the guys that make uniforms exclusively for a living. This will give you increased value and quality, as well as fewer headaches.
- Coach Mike

For catalogs featuring all of these brands, check out our Coaches Corner Page!


We've got you covered!  |  2497 Highway 77, Panama City, Florida 32405  |850.215.5151  |  Facebook.com/AlmegaSports

Friday, February 27, 2015


Why Stay Local?



When playing team sports it’s important that everyone involved know how to work as a team to achieve the same goal. That’s what Almega Sports is all about- helping players, coaches, teams, and their families succeed on the field. More than 5 years ago Almega Sports began with Coach Mike Walker as the realization of a dream- owning his own business. Today, Almega Sports is the only locally owned and operated sporting goods store in Bay County. With local owners and local faces, you’ll always know who you’re talking to and our staff is always happy to help and answer any questions. Our retail store carries a HUGE selection that beats the big stores box prices every time, including…
  • Mizuno
  • Easton
  • Worth
  • Rawlings
  • Diamond                                                                       
  • Nike
  • Used Golf Merchandise
  • Used Equipment
And Much More!
 
When it comes to making sure your players look their best on the field Almega Sports’ team sales have got you covered! We’ll come to you for fittings to make sure you are ordering the correct fit- and no worries if you have to add on players, we can have them outfitted as they come. We also offer fan shirts and team packs so family and friends can match the players. Our production team ensures superior turn-around time on all your orders- here is just some of what we do!  
  • Custom Uniforms
  • Trophies
  • Embroidery                       
  • Custom Hats                                              
  • Team Hats
  • Custom Shirts
  • Event Shirts
And More!
 

Mike and Marie’s children play sports right here in Panama City, so they understand the time and money you put into making sure your kids enjoy their experience on the field. Our local experience and knowledge along with our friendly staff make all the difference in your sports’ season. So come to Almega Sports for all your sport’s needs! We’ve got you covered!

|  2497 Highway 77, Panama City, Florida 32405  |  850.215.5151  |  Facebook.com/AlmegaSports  |

Thursday, January 29, 2015

The Lady Warriors- #2 Team in the Country


http://www.almegasports.com/Almega Sports has the opportunity to work with many incredible teams creating their custom uniforms and will soon have the honor of working with one of the top 11U fast-pitch teams in the country.
It’s really amazing to see what a group of young softball players are capable of when they play the game with everything they have. The Lady Warriors team from Callahan, Florida has played in numerous USSSA  tournaments in the North Florida area. This team brings passion to the field that makes the game even more exciting to watch.
The Warriors won several USSSA tournaments in their age group and even played in the 13u age group in the fall. The coaches are very involved with player development while keeping it fun for the girls. The players and coaches are serious about the game and worked hard for their title. Almega Sports is looking forward to working with these young ladies as they continue to make strides in the game.
The team with Coach Kevin Fagan from Central Florida State College. Where they finished 3rd in a 13u USSSA College Showcase Tournament!
Here are just some of their accomplishments from last season!

11U Tournaments

9/13         1st place in Fall Brawl Tournament

 13u Tournaments
10/11       1st place in Play For The Cure Tournament
10/25       2nd place in River City Spooktacular Tournament
11/2         4th place in the USSSA State Championship
11/15       3rd place in the Future Stars Showcase          
12/6         2nd place in Toys For Tots Tournament

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Almega Sports and Inaria Soccer- Preparing You For An Exciting Season



With the 2014 FIFA World Cup well under way we thought it was a good time to post an update about the new soccer line coming to Almega Sports! Almega Sports will soon be carrying equipment from and providing uniforms through Inaria International. Inaria was established in 1999, and has become a market leader in the sports and active wear industry- specializing in soccer uniforms and equipment.
              

Proper equipment is essential for game play- goalies need gloves, every player needs cleats and shin guards, but good looking uniforms are just as important! Through Almega Sports, you can order low cost, quality soccer uniforms that will keep your team looking great on the field. Regardless of if you're ordering a month before or last minute, Almega Sports can help you create the look you want for your team at the best possible price. Click this link or the one above to go back to our Coaches Corner and check out the Inaria catalog.

Recreational leagues are starting conditioning and practices, and soccer season for local high schools will be starting sooner than you think. As the most popular sport in the world- with over 250 million players in over 200 countries- soccer is an exciting way to introduce your kids or even yourself to team sports. Almega Sports carries goalie gloves, cleats, shin guards, soccer balls, and even miniature goals to practice your accuracy. So this season be sure to stop by Almega Sports for all your soccer needs!


                     

Tuesday, May 20, 2014

I'd Rather Be Fishing - Almega Sports' Partnership With An Up And Coming Champion

Wil Epps is ready for his 2014 tournaments.
     Most fourteen year old guys are focused on one of two things- video games or girls, maybe even both. But for freshwater tournament fisher Wil Epps, nothing beats a good day on the water with a rod and reel in his bass boat powered by Yamaha V Max. He loves fishing so much in fact, that he is a two time FLW Youth Division state competitor, coming in 7th place in the state in 2013.
     For his 2014 competitions Wil needed to look like a serious, professional competitor- and for that his dad David contacted us at Almega Sports. David wanted a personal one of a kind design that not only showcased Wil's sponsors, but also featured everything Wil had in mind. Working with Almega Sports personable staff- getting one on one consulting to get sponsor permission and create artwork- we created a fully sublimated, original fishing jersey in an efficient time window, managing to feature all of Wil's sponsors- his major two being Fitzgerald Rods and Slick Stix. 

Wil standing with fellow fisherman Jimmy Bullard.
Wil's fully sublimated final jersey! 


















  
Wil's 9lb 6oz large mouth bass. 


Wil lives in Callahan, Florida with his dad David, mom Janice,and  sister Hope- a State Champion softball player. He attends West Nasau High School. His most recent catch is the 9 pound 6 ounce large mouth bass shown below. Wil also competes in the Haven Hospice Youth Tournament, as well as the Wolfson Children's Hospital Bass Tournament. Wil plans to take on a partner and compete in the World Finals in 2015. 

Almega Sports works with a variety of customers to achieve one of a kind looks every day. These looks can be off the shelf imaging or even fully customized art. Screen printing, embroidery, and sublimation is just some of what we do at Almega Sports. We can outfit any team, meeting needs ranging from sport fishermen to football players. Owners Mike and Marie know every in and out of working with both individuals and organizations to create your perfect look. So if you're looking to outfit yourself, your team, or just want to take                                                                a look at what is available, be sure to stop by or call                                                                      Almega Sports- and don't worry, we specialize in                                                                          "I needed it yesterday." 

    2497 B Highway 77, Panama City, FL 32405 | 850.215.5151 | facebook.com/AlmegaSports


Monday, May 13, 2013

Spring Football Training

                                                             Spring Football Training

American Football is one of the most played sports in the country, especially by young adults.  Spring football is a serious training time for many athletes as it conditions them for their fall season. Since being taken to the ground by a well sized person is inevitable, it is easy to see why football is also one of the most dangerous sports played. However, there are simple ways to prevent simple injuries, from head to toe.

The most important precautionary measure an athlete can take is finding the best football helmet I cannot stress enough the possibility of concussion- so here’s what to do.
- Purchase a helmet that fits well.  Players need a good fit about 2 fingers width from eyebrow to forehead pad, and make sure it doesn’t move freely.

- Check out the safety rating, anything with a low rating is not going to be worth the money.

- If an athlete must use a league provided helmet, make sure it has been certified as safe.

- Do not necessarily seek out the cheapest option. The helmet protects the head which holds the brain; think about it. Don’t risk safety for a lower price tag.

 

Regardless of how long someone has played football, being tackled is a reality. So naturally you have to provide your body some form of protection, that’s where football pads come in.
-  For shoulder pads, make sure to get a good tight fit that will cover the shoulder blades and scapula in the back as well as our sternum in the front.

- For pants pads, athletes need 7 pieces; some come separately or in a girdle set. Though more expensive, a girdle set can save a lot of time getting ready.

- Check for antimicrobial treatment.  Hygiene is important, even in a game where you spend a lot of time in the dirt.

-  If using league issued pads make sure they have been reconditioned and cleaned.

-  Lighter padding can be better. It not only can help a player run faster, but can keep them cooler.



Football is all about running the ball right? So you have to make sure you have the proper cleat, sprained ankles and sore feet won’t help win the game.
-   Make sure the shoes are a good fit. Don’t feel compelled to buy a specific brand, shop around to be sure the shoe fits snugly but not tightly. Stay away from looser shoes for older kids, this can help avoid blisters.

-  Stay off of concrete. Cleats are meant to be in grass for a reason. They are unstable on concrete and can cause heel pain as well as a possible ankle injury.

-  Again, cheaper is not always the better way to go, especially when taking into account durability and fit. Find a comfortable shoe that can last a season or two.

 

So, there are some simple ways to stay safe this or any spring football season.  Almega Sports carries several brands of helmets and pads such as All-Star that is affordable and well-reviewed. We’re excited for the start of spring football and as always, Almega Sports has got you covered!

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Get Ready for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament


Get Ready for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament

Its All Star season! For many baseball players here in the Panhandle that means the best of the best are being selected to compete in tournaments of America’s greatest pass time. All Star season pulls together sportsmanship, competitive play, and an overall appreciation of teamwork to show players that if they compete at their best, and work their hardest, they can accomplish their goals. All that said, the finest players and coaches in Panama City are preparing for the Dizzy Dean State Tournament.



Coaches are looking desperately for the best equipment, gear, and uniforms with little or no time to spare. Well, our very own All Star team here at Almega Sports has you covered from beginning to end. We know the hectic nature of the game and how quickly your orders need to be filled. We specialize in custom team uniforms as well as garb for your team fans! With our walk in friendly embroidery and printing processes, Almega’s turn around time can’t be beat. Also don't forget our wide selection of gear that can meet any team’s needs. Want trophies for your winning picks? Almega Sports now does personalized awards so your players know the importance of the achievements they’ve made as a team. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff as well as our low priced high quality items make your All Star season a little easier. Good luck to our fantastic teams, and may the best players win!

Monday, April 16, 2012

What is 1.15 BPF?

2012 has brought about monstrous changes to the baseball world.  We have had the introduction of BBCOR, the banning of certain composite bats, and now, the mandatory 1.15 BPF stamp.  With the introduction of so many new rules and changes, Almega Sports has you covered for the season.  Let’s break down BPF.

What is 1.15 BPF?
  • 1.15 BPF is a testing method for youth and senior league baseball bats.  It measures the performance of all bats.  Basically, BPF is measuring the exit speed of the ball when hit by non-wood bats.
What does BPF stand for?
  • “Bat Performance Factor"

What does the 1.15 BPF stamp look like?

<------

What bats are required to carry the 1.15 BPF certification?
  • As of January 1, 2012, all youth and senior league bats (small and big barrel) are required to have the 1.15 BPF mark.  Any bat not marked has been deemed illegal in USSSA play.




Why are there so many changes in baseball for 2012?
  • Bottom line:  Player safety.  Technology is always improving, and so are the metals used to make bats.  The main concern of the industry is player safety.

Almega Sports has you covered with all of the translations and explanations you need to understand the science behind the USSSA 1.15 BPF updates.  We are your one stop baseball sports store in Panama City, Florida. 

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Top 10 List for Travel/Tournament Ball

It's tournament season!  This is the season of smelly cleats, clay in the car mats, and weekend road trips. The question is, do you have everything you need for tournament weekends?  Almega Sports has the top 10 must have items for the season.
  1. Carry Wagon - this will be the best money you spend.
  2. Folding Chairs - save your back, long days are ahead.                                 
  3. Dryer Sheets and Bug Repellent - dryer sheets work wonders to keep gnats away!
  4. Umbrella - better to be prepared than soaking wet.
  5. Cash - no cash, no entry at the gate!
  6. Tent (carry bag with wheels is best) - the summer sun is intense!
  7. Sunscreen - second degree sunburns are no laughing matter.
  8. Mini Fan - it's going to be HOT!
  9. Extension Cord - it's a given that someone will need it.
  10. Towels and Wet Wipes- sanitation at the ball field is well, compromised.
Almega Sports has you covered with all things sporting goods.  We are the only locally owned and operated full sports store in Panama City, Florida.  Almega carries lines such as Akadema, Mizuno, Worth, 3N2, and Easton.  One stop, one shop, done. 

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

What Are Team Mom Responsibilities?

Congratulations, you have been "elected" to be the team mom of your squad!  Do you know the responsibilities and obligations that accompany this title?  Don't worry, many don't.  Unfortunately, sports teams simply assign the team mom duties to a parent without consideration of their work, family, or other life obligations.  Almega Sports has put together a few tips to help you enjoy the position of team mom, rather than being stretched and stressed.

9 Common Duties of Team Mom:
  1. Team registration and organization of birth certificates
  2. Uniform sizing
  3. Organization of fundraising opportunities
  4. Publishing game schedules and practice times
  5. Organization of post game snacks for the players
  6. Recruiting volunteers (assigning tasks)
  7. Travel packets to include:  driving directions, hotel accommodations, meeting, and meal times
  8. Collecting of team money
  9. Liaison between parents and coaches
Remember, just because you have been selected to be the team mom, doesn't mean that you are required to wear a cape and perform the impossible.  Our advice is to recruit, assign, organize, and accomplish the demand and needs, of the team, with your fellow team parents.  This will be an excellent teaching opportunity for the parents to show the true meaning of sportsmanship to their players. 

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

What is Catcher Equipment?

In the worlds of baseball and fastpitch softball, the catcher has one of the most important and dangerous positions.  It is critical to protect the catcher, with the proper equipment, and to ensure the equipment fits properly. Purchasing the most expensive equipment is not necessary.  Fit and integrity is more important.  We are often approached by parents and players with a wide range of questions about catcher's equipment.  The Almega Sports Team has put together a few tips to get you started.

There are 3 critical elements to catcher's equipment:
  • Helmet -  Must fit snugly but sill allow the catcher to remove it quickly to field the ball.
  • Chest Protector - The fit should be snug but also allow free movement of the catcher.
  • Leg Guards - The fit should allow the catcher free mobility while still remaining in place.

    Optional equipment:
    • Throat Guard - Protects the catchers windpipe from random balls.
    • Knee Savers - Takes the strain off the knee ligaments.
    • Custom Gear Bag - Catcher's gear will not typically fit into traditional bat bags.

    The professional team at Almega Sports is here to help your athlete suite up for the season.  We are your locally owned and operated baseball and softball sports store in Panama City, FL.  At Almega Sports, we carry the brands you love at the prices you deserve.
    .Almega Sports has you covered


    Sunday, February 5, 2012

    What is BBCOR?

    There are so many questions regarding the 2012 BBCOR season.  Almega Sports is here to help unravel the most frequently asked questions regarding BBCOR
     
    Q.  What is BESR?
    A.  BESR stands for Ball Exit Speed Ratio.  Simply put, BESR is test developed to measure the exit speed of a ball after being hit by a bat.
     
    Q.  What is BBCOR?
    A.  BBCOR stands for Batted Ball Coefficient of Restitution.  The BBCOR test is a more complete test of the bat, as it takes into account how the bat will perform after it has been broken in (ABI).  The BBCOR standard ensures that all aluminum and composite bats will perform equivalent to wood bats.  
     
    Q.  What is ABI?
    A.  ABI stands for Accelerated Break-In Test.  This test simulates heavily used bats and tests the performance of the bat once it is considered "hot".  ABI is a part of the BBCOR standard.
     
    Q.  Why did the NFHS change the way bats are tested?
    A.  The increase in severe injury, particularly to pitchers and third baseman, sparked the need to take a closer look at bats.  There was also an unrealistic performance in composite bats, which lead to a home run explosion on the fields.  Basically, the bat would out-perform the player.
     
     
    Q.  Are BBCOR certified bats the same as last year's bats?
    A.  No.  BBCCOR certified bats are designed to perform as close to wood bats as possible.  The sweet spots are smaller and the trampoline effect is much less that the bats of 2011.
     
    Q.  What does the BBCOR stamp look like?
    A.  Every 2012 senior league recreational, high school, and college bat must bear the BBCOR stamp on the barrel, which looks like this:
     
    Q.  Is my 2011 bat legal to use in regulation play in 2012?
    A.  No.  Non-stamped bats are considered illegal in 2012 regulation play.  Those bats have just become your practice bats.
     
    Almega Sports carries a full line of BBCOR bats.  Our expert team will guide you through the rules of BBCOR and have you ready for the field with confidence. 
    Almega Sports has you covered!

    Tuesday, January 31, 2012

    Approved BBCOR Bat List

    New year, new rules, and new equipment. The 2012 baseball season is just days away, are you BBCOR ready?  The National Federation of High Schools (NFHS) has rewritten the rule books on bats.  All high school and college bats must posses the BBCOR stamp as of January 1, 2012.  Bats made prior to this season, and are not stamped BBCOR, are no longer considered legal equipment.  Almega Sports has you covered with the following list of legal equipment for the 2012 season. 

    2012 Approved BBCOR Bat List:
    Our expert team is ready to help you hit the field with confidence.  We carry everything you need for this baseball season from helmets to cleats, and everything in between.  Don't forget, Almega Sports also makes custom team uniforms.  Don't worry...Almega Sports has you covered!




    Tuesday, January 24, 2012

    Are You Ready For BBCOR?

    It's January 2012 and families all over the country are breaking out the baseball gear.  However, be wary of the bat you take to the diamond.  BBCOR rules are now in play and umpires across associations are ready to enforce them.  Almega Sports has a few tips to get you familiar with the BBCOR standard.

     BBCOR Rules Apply To:
    • Middle School
    • High School
    • College Leagues
    • Some Senior League Recreational Associations (confirm with your association)
    Key Factors Pertaining To BBCOR:
    • Bats must be stamped with the official BBCOR stamp on the barrel to be legal
    • Rules apply to all alloy and composite bats
    • Wood bats are not mandated to carry the BBCOR stamp, however, some manufactures, such as, Mizuno woods bats are BBCOR stamped.
    The bottom line is this:  If your bats is not BBCOR stamped, it is ILLEGAL to use in official play.  Any bat without the BBCOR stamp has now become your practice bat. 


    Almega Sports understands the need of every family to meet the requirements of the new season and the family budget.  We are here to help.  Come in, and allow our expert team guide you through BBCOR and keep your budget with in the foul lines.  Almega Sports has families covered!

    Monday, January 16, 2012

    How To Pick and Choose Baseball Cleats

    It's that time again.  Baseball season!  Time to pull the chairs out of the garage and get some clay on the cleats.  This should be a fun and exciting time for all levels of ball players.  Don't be alarmed if this is the first time for your athlete on the diamond.  Almega Sports has created several small "How To" videos to help you get your rising start ready to hit the field.  This blog will feature a great starting point when purchasing sports equipment.  "How To Pick and Choose Baseball Cleats."

      
    Key factors when purchasing cleats:
    • Fit:  Do not buy cleats that are too big.  Serious injury to the foot and ankle can occur if the cleat is not a proper fit.  It's just not worth the risk to buy cleats bigger to accommodate for growth spurts.
    • Comfort: The player must feel completely comfortable in the cleat in order to run, turn, and slide correctly.  A cleat that is not comfortable to the player could result in the player adjusting his natural way of running to compensate for the shoe.
    • Durability: We all have a budgets to keep.  Spending a little more on a well made shoe will ultimately save you money down the baseline. 
    • Easy to "break in:": The cleat needs to be made of a material that will be easy to get "game ready."
    • Rubber vs. Spike:  Know your association and the cleat requirements.  Metal spike cleats are not allowed in all associations.
    Almega Sports is here to help!  Let our experienced and dedicated staff fit your ball player with the proper equipment to hit the field with safety and confidence.  We carry everything you will need at prices that will keep your budget in bounds. 
    Almega Sports has you covered!