The Culver Academies baseball program includes two teams, a junior varsity and varsity, each playing a highly competitive schedule. Typically, games begin in the middle of April, with teams playing three times each week. The regular season ends by the end of May, in time for the varsity team to complete in the Indiana High School Baseball State Tournament. Most importantly, the baseball program provides the young men of Culver another opportunity to develop as leaders and men of character.

The philosophy of Culver baseball consists of two components. The first part of our philosophy addresses the type of person it takes to play in our program. We want players that play for the love of the game and that desire to compete. Players must strive to succeed every time they step on the field. Winning can be measured in different ways. It’s not solely judged by the scoreboard. Winning on the scoreboard becomes a byproduct of finding those players that believe in hard work and are men of character. An athlete’s character is put to the test during times of adversity. It is during times of adversity when CMA players can rely on an undying confidence in themselves and their program. As in life, our players should be self- directed, responsible leaders.

The second component of our philosophy has to do with several fundamental principles that will guide us to success on the diamond. The foundation of the entire program and at the core of our beliefs is that the process and approach we take to the game is more important than the results. In order to own this philosophy, the program frequently discusses and employs a focused and purposeful mental approach, at the pinnacle of which is: play one pitch at a time. When it comes to pitching, CMA baseball believes in getting ahead of hitters and challenging hitters. Defensively, we stress making the routine play and eliminating the big inning. At the plate, Culver baseball aggressively attacks strikes, and as we get deeper into the count, our goal will be to force the opponent’s defense into making a play. On the base paths the program preaches intelligence and pressure. More important than any specific tactical or philosophical approach is that our players understand and believe in our program’s priorities and vision.

Coach Christiansen's Letter of Introduction